Stem cell therapy
What is stem cell therapy?
Stem cell therapy is a way we can treat some serious conditions by replacing diseased or missing cells with new and healthy cells.
See our stem cell transplant factsheet
Checklist
FAQs
What are stem cells?
Stem cells have two properties that make them special. Firstly, they can self-replicate, meaning they make more copies of themselves. And secondly, they can take on the role of other cells that have specific purposes. Because of these two things, they have a role in maintaining and repairing cells, tissues, or organs in the body.
There are two main types:
- Pluripotent stem cells can be thought of as a blank canvas. They have the ability to develop into all of the cells in our bodies.
- Adult stem cells on the other hand have already chosen a job. They act sort of like a maintenance and repair system which makes replacements for other cells in a particular tissue or organ.
Can family members be donors?
It is possible if you meet the criteria outlined for being a donor. However, it is important to realise that this won鈥檛 be applicable to all therapeutic applications of stem cells. Therefore, it is best to direct this question to your general practitioner (GP) or medical specialist.
Who decides if stem cell therapy is the right treatment for a disease?
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) are the official bodies who regulate stem cell therapy treatments in Australia.
Where are stem cells stored in Australia?
Stem cells are stored in a few approved facilities across Australia. These are commonly storing umbilical cord blood. See our Sydney Cord Blood Bank webpage.