Stem Cells: Definition, Function, and Diseases They Can Cure

Quite popular in the international health world, at the end of 2023, BPOM (Indonesian FDA) inaugurated the first stem cell therapy service in Indonesia. For those unfamiliar with this term, stem cells have many benefits for society.

But what exactly are stem cells? How do they work? What benefits do they provide when someone undergoes this procedure? To answer these questions, here are some points to understand more about stem cells and the ins and outs of this health technology.

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Understanding Stem Cells

In general, the definition of a stem cell is a parent cell that can self-replicate and differentiate into various types of cells needed. These cells, also called stem cells, are the only cells in the blood capable of regenerating new cell types, as explained by Dr. Theresia Yunita in an article about stem cell therapy and its potential to cure serious diseases on the KlikDokter website.

This treatment method or procedure is then considered a breakthrough with significant potential to cure various serious diseases, from chronic diseases to degenerative and autoimmune diseases. Given its potential, it is no wonder that many health experts worldwide focus on developing this procedure.

In practice, stem cells can be divided into four different categories: embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, modified adult cells into embryonic stem cells, and perinatal stem cells.

• Embryonic stem cells, are taken from 3-5 day old embryos. They are pluripotent, meaning they can replicate and develop into any cell in the body. Their function is to repair damaged tissues or organs.
• Adult stem cells, can be found in adult body tissues and have a more limited ability to develop into various cell types in the body. Adult stem cells can only develop into the same type of cell as their origin.
• Modified adult cells into embryonic stem cells, Researchers claim they can convert adult cells into embryonic stem cells through a technology called genetic reprogramming. These cells are programmed to have the same properties as embryonic stem cells, but this method is still under study.
• Perinatal stem cells,  are found in amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord, but their application in real cases is still being researched and developed.

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Two Ways Stem Cell Therapy Works

The types or categories of stem cells are divided into two, and the way stem cell therapy works is also differentiated into two different methods. The first is known as autologous stem cell transplantation, and the second is called allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

The explanations for each can be seen below.

1. Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation

In this method, the stem cells used come from the patient's own body. These cells are then frozen, stored, and used when the patient needs them. The condition that necessitates the use of stem cells is when the patient's natural stem cells have been damaged.

The main advantage of this method is that the risk of the patient's body rejecting the stem cells is lower, as the stem cells are essentially part of the patient's body. Additionally, the side effects are generally fewer, and the formation of new blood cells occurs faster.

However, some risks still need to be considered. For instance, the transplant might fail if the stem cells attack the body upon reinfusion, or in the context of cancer, the stem cells might carry cancer cells, causing the cancer to reappear.

2. Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

The second procedure uses stem cells from a donor. The donor can be a volunteer or a relative of the patient. This method is used as an alternative if autologous transplantation is unsuccessful or if the disease is more aggressive.

The advantage is that the stem cells used can be selected from sources free of cancer or other diseases. Donors or relatives must first undergo a screening procedure to ensure their condition.

However, this transplant also has more significant side effects and a longer recovery period. The body may naturally reject the donor stem cells, and new blood formation will occur more slowly as adaptation is required.

Stem Cells Claimed to Cure Dozens of Diseases

This stem cell therapy procedure can be a solution for many diseases affecting people. The effectiveness of this therapy depends on the severity of the patient's condition, with generally much lower risks than other therapies.

According to the official website of chicagostemcells.com, some diseases that can be treated this way include:

• Anemia
• Congenital blood or red blood cell disorders
• Bone marrow cancer
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Inherited immune disorders
• Inherited immune system and other system disorders
• Inherited metabolic disorders
• Inherited platelet disorders
• Phagocytosis disorders
• Solid tumors

In fact, many other diseases can be treated. According to cordlife.co.id, at least 80 diseases can be treated with umbilical cord blood stem cells. There are still risks associated with this therapy procedure. However, with ongoing research and development by experts, this procedure will likely see significant progress in the coming years.

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Although technology development in this field continues in Indonesia, one of the most credible and professional institutions in this area is the Global Stem Cell Group, based in Florida, USA. This brief information is not intended to discredit anyone but is hoped to serve as a useful reference for those seeking the best options currently available.

Certainly, the resources available in Indonesia have great potential to help many people in the future. At least the first steps have been taken toward a more promising future concerning stem cell therapy in Indonesia.

For those who wish to undergo this procedure directly in Florida, thorough planning is necessary. Besides travel and accommodation plans, one essential thing to have is international health insurance, such as SmartMedicare International Insurance from PT AXA Insurance Indonesia. This insurance provides peace of mind as it covers health issues for you and your family, with coverage options extending from Indonesia to worldwide, with an annual limit of up to US$2.9 million. So, maximize the offers and opportunities available for the desired recovery with PT AXA Insurance Indonesia!

Reference:

• https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/kontroversi-stem-cell-ini-yang-perlu-diketahui
• https://www.alodokter.com/mengganti-sel-yang-rusak-dengan-transplantasi-sel-punca
• https://celltechstemcell-indonesian.com/stemcells.html
• https://kumparan.com/ragam-info/stem-cell-pengertian-jenis-jenis-dan-fungsinya-dalam-penyembuhan-kanker-219HdI1bXIs
• https://www.verywellhealth.com/stem-cell-therapy-7553372
• https://tirto.id/apa-itu-terapi-stem-cell-cara-kerjanya-menyembuhkan-penyakit-gEyF
• https://www.chicagostemcells.com/blog/list-of-diseases-treated-by-stem-cells/?bp=32962
• https://www.cordlife.co.id/id/diobati-penyakit
• https://www.pom.go.id/berita/bpom-resmikan-pelayanan-terapi-sel-punca-pertama-di-indonesia
• https://www.klikdokter.com/info-sehat/berita-kesehatan/mengenal-terapi-stem-cell-dan-potensinya-untuk-menyembuhkan-penyakit-berat