Lineages

STEM CELLS ARE immature, undifferentiated cells that can divide and multiply for an extended period of time, differentiating into specific types of cells and tissues. Autogenous stem cells are derived from the patient being treated, while allogenous stem cells are derived from other individuals. Stem cells available commercially are currently mainly allogenous (donor derived).

While it is believed that allogenous stem cells will not produce an immune response, this is not known with certainty. Autogenous stem cells, on the other hand, reduce the risk of rejection and, provided they are handled correctly, remove the risk of cross—infection from allogenous transplanted tissue. In addition, autologous stem cell transplant recipients will not require immunosup—pressive drugs to combat rejection.

Stem cells may be totipotent, multipotent or unip—otent. This means that ...