Recent Studies on Wharton's Jelly and Adipose-Derived Stem Cells for COPD
Wharton’s jelly MSCs (WJ-MSCs) are harvested from umbilical cord tissue, a young and ethically non-contentious source. [1] They express typical MSC markers (CD73, CD90, CD105) and lack hematopoietic ones (CD14, CD34, CD45).
| Feature / Study Outcome | Wharton’s Jelly MSCs (WJ-MSC) | Adipose-Derived MSCs (AD-MSC) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Umbilical cord tissue | Patient’s own fat tissue |
| Route of Delivery | Mostly intravenous, some intrabronchial | Mostly intravenous, some intratracheal |
| Preclinical Benefit (Animal Models) | Strong improvement in alveolar structure, lower inflammation | Strong inflammation reduction, improved airflow |
| Human Safet |
Stem cell treatment for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is an emerging area of regenerative medicine. Here's what you need to know, with a balance of current science, potential, and limitations:
Stem cell therapy for COPD typically involves mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) — usually derived from:
COPD is a progressive respiratory condition that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It affects over 250 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of disability and death. Standard treatments include bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehab, but these do not reverse lung damage. Regenerative approaches aim to reduce inflammation and potentially repair airway tissues.