Approved Applications of Cell Therapy
Cell therapy can be considered and used as a new approach in practice.
According to the Bonyan Information Base, cell therapy or cell therapy is one of the new medical methods in the treatment of various diseases and injuries that has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. The basis of this method is the use of living cells to repair and regenerate damaged or dysfunctional tissues. Although this field involves a variety of methods, its main focus is on the use of stem cells. In this article, we will review the basic concepts, functions and applications of cell therapy and the latest approvals for cell therapy.
Types of cells used in cell therapy
Stem cells are known as the main type of cells used in this method. Stem cells include two main types:
1. Embryonic stem cells:
These cells are extracted from embryos that are few days old, and all types of cells in the body can be produced from them.
2. Mature stem cells:
These cells are present in mature tissues of the body, such as bone marrow and adipose tissue, and have a limited ability to transform into different types of cells.
Mechanism of action of cell therapy:
Stem cells have the ability to multiply and differentiate into different types of cells in the body, which makes them very suitable for the recovery and repair of damaged tissues. These cells can be placed in a specific environment and transformed into a specific type of cell, for example, into neurons, heart, liver cells, etc.
Application Process:
1. Stem cell collection
The first step in the application of cell therapy is the collection of stem cells from the desired source (such as bone marrow, blood, or embryo).
2. Differentiation
These cells are then transformed into the required cells under controlled conditions.
3- Cell transplantation
Finally, the differentiated cells are injected or transplanted into damaged or dysfunctional tissues.
Clinical Applications
Cell therapy covers a wide range of diseases and medical conditions, some of which are listed below.
1. Treatment of heart disease
Stem cells can become heart cells and help regenerate and improve the function of the damaged heart.
2. Treatment of neurological diseases
This procedure can help repair nerve cells damaged in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and spinal cord injuries.
3. Treatment of vital tissues and organs
Stem cells can regenerate vital tissues and organs such as the liver and kidneys and treat chronic diseases.
Cellular and molecular technology has brought about a major breakthrough in medicine in recent decades, especially in the development of new drugs to treat diverse and complex diseases. These drugs, often referred to as “cell-derived drugs,” offer new possibilities for treating rare disorders such as cancer, genetic diseases, neurological diseases, and other chronic diseases.
1- Stem cell-based therapies
Stem cells are of particular importance because of their ability to transform into different types of cells. Stem cells can be effective in treating many diseases, including spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, heart disease, and rare genetic conditions
- Mesenchymal stem cells: These cells are extracted from bone marrow, fat, and other tissues and can differentiate into different types of cells. Research has shown that these cells can be useful in treating diseases such as arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and heart damage.
2- CRISPR-based gene therapy
CRISPR-Cas9 is a genetically modified technology that allows scientists to cut and modify DNA with high precision. The technology could be used to treat genetic diseases caused by specific changes in DNA, such as cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
3- CAR-T cells (modified T cells for chimeric receptors)
CAR-T cells are a type of immunotherapy in which T cells are removed from a patient’s body, modified in a laboratory, and then returned to the patient’s body. These cells are trained to attack cancer cells.
- Chemaheria
- Yaskara
4- Stem-stemmed stoicists
4. Stem cells produce substances that can help regenerate tissues. This technology has been especially used in the treatment of spinal cord injuries, heart injuries, and other conditions that require tissue regeneration.
5- Artificial organs and engineered tissues
Recent advances in tissue engineering have made it possible to produce artificial organs.
6- Direct injection of therapeutic cells
Direct injection of therapeutic cells into damaged tissues is another new approach, this method can help new cells quickly transfer to the damaged tissues and accelerate the healing process.
7- Cell therapy for neurological diseases
Cell therapies can play an important role in the treatment of neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and amyotrophic multiple sclerosis (ALS). Research on the use of stem cells to regenerate neurons is progressing.
8- Use of iPSC cells
Induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) are mature cells that have been restored to a pluripotent state. These cells can differentiate into different types of cells, providing a wide range of possibilities for treating a variety of diseases.
9- Cell-based vaccines
Cellular vaccines, such as those that use dendritic cells, can trigger a stronger immune response. These vaccines are being researched and developed in the fight against cancer and infectious diseases.
10- Cell therapy in weakened immune environments
One of the major challenges in the field of cell therapy is the adaptation of the immune system to new cells. Research is ongoing to find ways to improve this compatibility, such as the use of iPSC cells.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Natural regeneration: One of the biggest benefits of cell therapy is the possibility of natural and safe repair of tissues and organs.
- Reducing the need for medications: Using this method can reduce the need for chemical drugs and surgical interventions.
- Variety of applications: This method can be useful for a wide range of diseases and injuries.
Disadvantages
- Potential for cancer formation: One of the major concerns in the use of embryonic stem cells is the potential for the formation of cancerous tumors.
- Safety risks: Because stem cells are obtained from a variety of sources, there is a possibility of immune problems.
- High costs: The process of extraction, differentiation, and transplantation of stem cells is often costly and complex.
Challenges and the Future of Cell Therapy
Despite its many benefits and potential, cell therapy still faces challenges, including ethical problems associated with the use of embryonic stem cells, the need for more research to guarantee the safety and efficacy of treatments, and finding more economical methods for clinical application. Many researchers and experts believe that cell therapy, with the advances that are being made, can replace conventional therapies in the future and improve the quality of life of many patients. In conclusion, it can be said that cell therapy is one of the most promising current approaches in medical science, which has the potential to change the fields of treatment of diseases and injuries if the existing challenges and obstacles are overcome. Continuous and accurate research in this field can help create new and improved methods in the treatment of many diseases and ultimately lead to the improvement of the general health of the community.
Source: Iranian Stem Cell Information Database