Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) is a common and serious complication that can follow a stem cell transplant from an unrelated donor (non family member). GvHD is divided into acute and chronic forms according to the clinical course and time of the diagnosis. It is a life-threatening condition, which contributes greatly to early mortality after stem cell transplants. Survivors may suffer organ damage and have impaired quality of life.
John Wagner, one of the most important authorities in the world, publishes new research findings confirming once more that adults with hematoilogic cancers can be treated effectively with a single or a double unit of cord blood.
Molecular geneticists have discovered a simple way to expand cord blood cells by treating them with a small molecule drug that stimulates their natural proliferation.
Duke Medicine received $15 million for research that explores the use of umbilical cord blood cells to treat autism, stroke, cerebral palsy and related brain disorders.
Every four minutes, one person in the U.S. is diagnosed with a blood cancer. Blood stem cell transplants have become a standard way to treat children with leukemia and other blood disorders, but have been limited for only small children. Now, doctors are saving older children by transplanting not just one but two umbilical cords!
