The Rich Potential of Wharton's Jelly
Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (UC-MSCs) are a robust, ethically acceptable source of stem cells with potent immunomodulatory and regenerative capabilities.
Anatomy of the Source
A Layered Structure
The umbilical cord is not a uniform tissue. It is composed of distinct zones, each with unique cellular densities and matrix compositions.
1. Amniotic Epithelium
The single outer layer covering the cord.
2. Sub-Amnion WJ
A narrow zone (100-150 µm) of Wharton's Jelly immediately below the epithelium. Often called "Cord Lining."
3. Intermediate WJ
Sparse matrix with few cells and clefts containing ground substance.
4. Perivascular WJ
Cell and matrix-rich zone surrounding the vessels (200-2000 µm thick). A rich source of MSCs.
5. Vessels
Two arteries and one vein, comprising only tunica media and endothelial lining (no adventitia).
Cell Yield Advantage
UC-MSCs exhibit significantly higher Colony Forming Unit (CFU-F) frequency compared to Bone Marrow MSCs.
CFU-F Frequency (UC Perivascular)
CFU-F Frequency (Bone Marrow)
Therapeutic Applications
Inflammatory Diseases
Potent anti-inflammatory effects in autoimmune and acute conditions.
- Multiple Sclerosis (EAE): Modest improvement; better if pre-symptomatic.
- IBD (Crohn's/Colitis): Reduces inflammation, homes to colon.
- Sepsis & ARDS: Increases survival, reduces TNF-α/IL-6, increases IL-10.
Wound Healing & Fibrosis
Accelerates healing and reduces scar tissue formation.
- Skin Wounds: Improved tensile strength, collagen, angiogenesis.
- Kidney Injury: Reduced fibrosis, improved function.
- Liver Fibrosis: Decreased collagen, improved biomarkers.
- Lung Fibrosis: Reduced inflammation and collagen deposition.
Bone & Joint Repair
Enhances regeneration through paracrine signaling.
- Bone Defects: Enhances bone regeneration (primarily paracrine).
- Tendon Injury: Improves tensile strength.
- Osteoarthritis: Upregulates COL2a, potential for cartilage repair.
Ischemia & Heart
Promotes angiogenesis and reduces apoptosis.
- Limb Ischemia: Enhances blood flow and capillary density.
- Myocardial Infarction: Improved fractional shortening (local injection).
- Mechanism: M2 macrophage polarization, angiogenesis.
Diabetes
Targets both insulin production and resistance.
- Type 1: Potential for β-cell like differentiation.
- Type 2: Reduces insulin resistance, promotes anti-inflammatory adipose tissue.
- Combined Therapy: Synergistic with anti-diabetic drugs.
Cancer & Biodefense
Tumor tropism and delivery vehicle potential.
- Tumor Tropism: Homes to tumors (e.g., lung, breast).
- Growth Attenuation: Can reduce tumor growth (mechanism variable).
- Delivery Vehicle: Can deliver antibodies or apoptosis-inducing ligands (TRAIL).
Registered Clinical Trials (Jan 2016)
Diverse Clinical Targets
Analysis of 109 registered clinical trials employing UC-derived cells (excluding cord blood alone) reveals a broad spectrum of target indications.
Medical Disclaimer
The health and medical information provided on this website is for general educational and informational purposes only.
Not Medical Advice: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on WHOLE BODY website. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use.
FDA Statement: Statements and products mentioned on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The information including any discussed therapies or products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.
User Responsibility: You should not use the information on this website for self-diagnosis or to delay seeking professional medical care. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk.
Medical Disclaimer
The health and medical information provided on this website is for general educational and informational purposes only.
Not Medical Advice: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on WHOLE BODY website. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use.
FDA Statement: Statements and products mentioned on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The information including any discussed therapies or products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.
User Responsibility: You should not use the information on this website for self-diagnosis or to delay seeking professional medical care. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk.
