Metabolic disorders like Hurler's Syndrome and Krabbe Disease interfere with the body's ability to process food, resulting in a wide range of symptoms such as mental retardation, stunted growth and seizures. It can be devastating for a parent to learn that their child has such a metabolic disorder; however, treatment with stem cells may prevent or possibly repair neurological damage caused by several of these diseases.

Treating metabolic disorders with stem cells is not new, but the science has advanced considerably since its first application in 1980. Stem cells produce, secrete, and replace the missing enzymes, thereby rebuilding the patient’s blood and immune system, and provide unique treatment because they can cross the blood brain barrier to regenerate or prevent more damage to tissue within the central nervous system. In the best scenario, stem cells can provide long-term replacement of necessary enzymes. For families that have a relative with a metabolic disorder, Cord Blood Registry’s Designated Treatment Program offers free cord blood banking for expectant parents with a family member suffering from a disorder that can be treated with stem cells. You can find out more about CBR’s program on their website.

Do you know anyone suffering from a metabolic disorder?

Treating Metabolic Disorders with Stem Cells [the Stem Cell Source]