Scientists from McMaster University in Hamilton believe they have found a way to determine the different classes of stem cells from the bone marrow. Researchers believe that bone marrow stem cells found at the ends of the bones are potentially more advanced in terms of rejuvenating blood cells relative to stem cells traditionally found in the bone well.
bone marrow transplants are commonly performed in hospitals across Canada and around the world. Many cases involve patients being unsuitable for bone marrow transplantation, which often leads to doctors seeking stem cell donors as possible blood marrow.
Mick Bhatia, director of McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute and principal investigator of the study, believes the research may help doctors better identify stem cells from bone marrow. Bhatia compares different stem cells to professional athletes.
"You can have someone who can run and go to the Olympics, but there are those that go at this speed for much longer and much faster. It makes all professional athletes, but there are different gradients. "
the McMaster team found that the stem cells at the bone ends in a protective niche, and receive chemical signals that dictate to perform in a specific as well as stem cells found in the middle of the bone. Preliminary studies indicate stem cells from the bone ends are likely to last longer and regenerate the highest blood cells and other bone marrow stem cells that do not receive chemical messages.
Bhatia predicted the McMaster Institute and other facilities continue to research the potential benefits of end of bone stem cells. Over time the team can also dive in distinguishing different types of cells from cord blood stem a potential for medical treatment.