FAQ’s
What are Stem cells?
Stem cells are basic cells that can develop into specialized cells during fetal development. They form part of the immune system. They are pluripotent in nature. In other word, stem cells are unspecialized cells, which have the property to self-renew and at the same time they can be differentiated into all tissue specific cells of the body.

What are Embryonic Stem cells and Umbilical Cord Stem cells?
Embryonic stem cells are derived from the developing foetus. These stem cells are plastic and have shown great promise in stem cell-based therapies. The ethical issues involved around embryonic stem cells are enormous and are a major deterrent in using these cells for therapy. Umbilical cord derived stem cells are present in the cord of a newborn and are large reservoirs of plastic stem cells. These cells are easily available and are part of the baby. The potential of using these cells to help cure a variety of diseases is enormous.

What is Cord Blood?
Cord blood is the residual blood left in the umbilical cord after childbirth. This blood provides nutrition and respiration during the gestation of the baby. Since the placental blood islands are the origin of Haematopoietic stem cells, cord blood contains stem cells. It was discovered that the stem cells present in the cord blood were comparable to stem cells from the bone marrow.

How is cord blood collected and Cryo-preserved?
Collection of cord blood and cryo-preservation of stem cells is possible only at the time of the baby's birth. The procedure to collect the cord blood is standardized and does not harm the child or the mother. The stem cells can be harvested and cryo-preserved in liquid nitrogen. The stored stem cells can be revived and used whenever needed.

Who can use the Cryo-preserved stem cells?
The stored stem cells should be used by the child from whom the cord blood was collected; since the tissue typing (HLA) is identical. However, research has shown that the cord blood stem cells are very primitive and do not express HLA phenotype, which is crucial in rejection. Therefore, close family members can also use it, if needed, without serious adverse effects.

How long can Stem cells be preserved?
Stem cells can be preserved for any number of years, and for generations as these stem cells are stored in Liquid Nitrogen at -1960 C. Upon storage, a report will be issued to you giving your reference number. The stored stem cells will be released only upon your written request to you, and to no one else.

In Case I decide to avail this facility, when should I inform you?
Wherever or whenever possible about minimum 48 hours before the expected delivery is appropriate to make the necessary for Umbilical Cord Blood collection. However in case of sudden or unexpected delivery, attempts will be made to collect the UCB even at much shorter notice.

When do I make the Payment?
You can register by paying Rs. 5,000\- and balance can be paid (depending on the payment plan and the services you avail) upon delivery of your child.