Stem cells have incredible potential for regenerative medicine, but to obtain them in sufficient quantities is very problematic. Scientists at the University of Lund (Sweden) suggested as a source of stem cells to use amniotic fluid is collected during a cesarean section.
Stem cells are valuable because they give the possibility of transformation into other cells of the body. They can be a starting point in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and others. The problem is that modern methods of extraction are either invasive or very painful.
The amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus and is rich in nutrients like nothing else suitable as a source of stem cells: its quite a lot and, moreover, its extraction is not more invasive than the process of childbirth.
Scientists have developed a new device and method for fluid collection and extraction from it of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). The device printed on a 3D printer of bioinert plastics that allow doctors to gently and safely remove liquid, usually considered as medical waste during the operation.
Then it is passed through a strainer with holes the size of 100 microns, and then run through a centrifuge. Thereafter, from the purified liquid grown cell structure.
MSC can be replicated in a variety of cell types, including embryonic stem. This means that they can be grown almost any type of body cells.
Source — Lund University