A stem cell is an undifferentiated cell found in the body capable of self-renewal and transformation into specialized cell types. The regenerative properties of these cells make them valuable in areas of research ranging from tissue regeneration and wound healing to alleviating chronic symptoms. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into therapeutic stem cells, explaining the different types and where they come from, so that patients feel more informed and empowered to take control of their health.
Dr. John C. Haasis III is a board-certified pain management anesthesiologist, as well as the founder and medical director of the Daisy Stem Cell Therapy and Advanced Regenerative Medicine Center of the Carolinas. He has over 25 years of experience in the field and has treated thousands of patients along the East Coast.
If you are interested in starting a stem cell treatment, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Haasis by contacting us online. To speak to a member of our team or schedule a consultation over the phone, please call (864) 775-5682. We offer consultations at each of our convenient locations:
- Greenville, SC
- Spartanburg, SC
- Columbia, SC
- Anderson, SC
- Asheville, NC
Contents
About Therapeutic Stem Cells
Therapeutic stem cells are self-renewing cells that can be used to address a wide range of symptoms. There are multiple types of stem cells, each with its own unique biological functions, and each can differentiate into specialized cells to help enhance one’s health and overall well-being.
Therapeutic stem cells can be delivered into the body by injection, intravenous (IV) infusion, or through surgical intervention. There are thousands of examples of successful stem cell applications performed worldwide, with over one million patients benefiting from bone marrow transplants. (1)
Benefits
Therapeutic stem cells offer numerous benefits, each of which helps enhance one’s health and overall well-being. Under Dr. Haasis’ expertise, our patients see results through:
- Cellular Repair: Stem cells promote the healing of damaged tissues and organs.
- Regenerative Properties: Our treatments can help patients generate new cells to replace those lost during injury or illness.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Many stem cell procedures are performed using less invasive methods, reducing each patient’s overall recovery time
- Pain Relief: Stem cells can alleviate pain associated with chronic conditions, as well as reduce inflammation.
- Potential for Diverse Application: Some experimental stem cell therapies are being studied for conditions like arthritis, neurological conditions, and heart disease. However, many of these uses are not yet FDA-approved and should be discussed as part of a clinical consultation.
- Immune Modulation: Stem cells can adjust immune responses, allowing for effective treatment of autoimmune disorders.
- Personalized Treatments: Each of our treatments is fully tailored to address the individual goals of our patients.
- Continuous Research: Ongoing clinical trials expand knowledge and improve stem cell therapies.
Suitable Candidates
Any patient interested in utilizing regenerative medicine to address their concerns may be eligible for a stem cell treatment. Some of the conditions that can be effectively addressed with a therapeutic stem cell regimen include:
- Chronic diseases, like arthritis or diabetes
- Sports injuries, specifically ligament, cartilage, or other connective tissue injuries
- Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease.
- Heart conditions or heart failure.
- Autoimmune disorders
Stem cell therapies are not limited to these conditions alone, as their ability to transform into other cells allows them to address a wide range of conditions. Dr. Haasis regularly helps patients improve everything from sexual health to gout. During your consultation, Dr. Haasis will further determine your candidacy.
Where Do Stem Cells Come From?
Therapeutic stem cells have been isolated from nearly every tissue in the body, from adipose tissue to tumors. (2) Dr. Haasis utilizes allogeneic stem cells, or donor stem cells sourced from a donor bank, in each of his treatments.*
Allogeneic Stem Cells
Allogeneic stem cells are derived and transferred from donors or sources other than oneself. (3) Allogeneic stem cells are very common in blood marrow transplants and cord blood transplants, which consist of transplanting stem cells from the umbilical cord and placenta. Allogenic stem cells are the most commonly used type for treatments due to their wide availability from healthy individuals at donor banks.
Autologous Stem Cells
Autologous stem cells are derived from each patient and are often utilized in aesthetic procedures or bone marrow transplants. Autologous stem cells are harvested from the blood or bone marrow before being processed and used for treatment. By deriving the cells from each patient, there is no risk of rejection, nor is there a need to spend time finding a matching donor.
Xenogenic Stem Cells
Xenogenic stem cells are derived from non-human organisms and are used to improve and treat conditions in humans. The sources of xenogeneic cells are extensive, including other primates, rodents, and even domestic animals, most notably pigs. (4) There are still many ongoing trials regarding transplantation, but the development of xenogenic stem cells introduces new ideas and potential for organ reconstruction and slowing the progression of neurological diseases (4)
Syngeneic Stem Cells
Syngeneic stem cells are less common and are specifically derived from identical twins or triplets. These stem cells offer no risk of rejection, but this type of cell is rarely used in regular treatment due to the necessity of having a genetically identical match.
*Dr. Haasis utilizes allogeneic stem cells that comply with current regulatory standards and are sourced from accredited donor banks, when appropriate. Patients will be informed if a treatment is investigational or off-label.
Types of Therapeutic Stem Cells
Several different types of stem cells can be found in the body and used during treatment. Each cell holds a different function, depending on where it has been sourced from. Knowing the difference between the different types of stem cells can help each patient make more informed decisions about their treatment. To learn more about the treatments we offer, please read Dr. Haasis’ blog.
Pluripotent Stem Cells
Pluripotent stem cells can become any other type of cell in the body, other than the placenta or support tissues. These versatile stem cells are often used in regenerative therapies and research and are often derived from early-stage embryos, specifically when the egg and sperm fuse to form a blastocyst. Researchers can also produce induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are adult skin or blood cells that have been reprogrammed to become pluripotent for therapeutic or research use. (1)
Multipotent Stem Cells
Multipotent stem cells are cells that can develop into a range of specific cells within a certain biological function. Adult stem cells are usually either multipotent or unipotent, meaning they can either differentiate into multiple cell types or one cell type, with the majority of these cells existing in the bone marrow. Two well-known examples of multipotent cells include:
- Hematopoietic Stem Cells: Hematopoietic stem cells are a type of multipotent cell that specifically develops into blood cells. They can be found in one’s bone marrow and whole blood and can turn into white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Mesenchymal stem cells can be found in a variety of tissues and are used for tissue restructuring and engineering in both experimental and clinical applications. Mesenchymal stem cells can be found in the umbilical cord, endometrial polyps, menses blood, adipose tissue, and more.
Oligopotent Stem Cells
Oligopotent stem cells can turn into a limited number of other cells. Oligopotent stem cells are a subset of multipotent stem cells, but are more restrictive, offering a shorter range of potential cell transformations. Oligopotent stem cells can be found in and derived from bone marrow or lymphoid tissues found in various parts of the body. These cells often develop into platelets or red blood cells.
Unipotent Stem Cells
Unipotent stem cells can only develop into the specific type of tissue in which they naturally occur. Unipotent stem cells are the most limited type of stem cell but can be found across different parts of the body, such as the skin or the central nervous system.
Personal Consultation
Because each stem cell treatment is uniquely tailored to the individual and their needs, a personal consultation with Dr. Haasis is vital to establishing which treatments you would benefit most from. This consultation will allow you to explore the various stem cell therapies offered by Dr. Haasis and his team and ask questions. Dr. Haasis will gather the necessary information about you, your medical history, and your overall goals before crafting a personalized treatment plan.
Schedule this personal consultation by contacting Dr. Haasis and his team online or by calling (864) 775-5682. Consultations are available at all five of our locations:
- Greenville, SC
- Spartanburg, SC
- Columbia, SC
- Anderson, SC
- Asheville, NC
Cost of Therapeutic Stem Cell Treatments in South Carolina
The cost of each patient’s therapeutic stem cell treatment can vary depending on the symptoms being addressed and whether or not any additional procedures are being performed. Dr. Haasis will discuss the pricing of each patient’s stem cell treatment with them during their personal consultation.
To schedule a consultation and learn more about the cost of your treatment, please contact us online or call (864) 775-5682
FAQ
Are therapeutic stem cells safe?
Many therapeutic stem cell applications have shown promise in clinical trials, though safety and efficacy can vary depending on the condition being treated. Patients should consult with a licensed medical provider and understand the investigational nature of some treatments.
How long will the results of my stem cell treatment last?
The duration of results can vary. Some patients may enjoy lasting improvements while others may need repeat treatments, especially if dealing with chronic health conditions.
Can stem cells help address every condition?
Not every condition can be treated with stem cells, but we can utilize them to address various symptoms. Current research continues to evaluate their effectiveness across various health scenarios.
What should I expect during recovery after receiving stem cells?
Most patients experience mild soreness and temporary swelling. Each patient’s recovery timeline will vary, though many resume regular activities within a week.
Is there ongoing research on therapeutic stem cells?
Yes, a plethora of clinical trials are ongoing, continuously expanding the knowledge and applications of stem cell therapy across many medical fields.
References
- Dulak J, Szade K, Szade A, Nowak W, Józkowicz A. Adult stem cells: hopes and hypes of regenerative medicine. Acta Biochimica Polonica. 2015;62(3):329-337. doi:https://doi.org/10.18388/abp.2015_1023
- Tsuji W. Adipose-derived stem cells: Implications in tissue regeneration. World Journal of Stem Cells. 2014;6(3):312. doi:https://doi.org/10.4252/wjsc.v6.i3.312
- Hoang DM, Pham PT, Bach TQ, et al. Stem cell-based therapy for human diseases. Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy. 2022;7(1):1-41. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41392-022-01134-4
- Pluripotent Stem Cell – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. www.sciencedirect.com. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/pluripotent-stem-ce
- Jiang LL, Li H, Liu L. Xenogeneic stem cell transplantation: Research progress and clinical prospects. World Journal of Clinical Cases. 2021;9(16):3826-3837. doi:https://doi.org/10.12998/wjcc.v9.i16.3826
*The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Stem cell therapies may not be FDA-approved for all indications mentioned. Please consult with a licensed medical professional to determine if these therapies are appropriate for your condition.