For many people, if not most, one of the biggest reasons for banking their baby's cord blood is for the sheer treatment possibilities, and the past 12 months have been a landmark time for research into the possible uses of cord blood.

In early 2010, an FDA-regulated trial began at the Georgia Health Sciences University to determine the possibility of improving quality of life in children diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Some of the parents with children taking part in studies such as this have publically shared their amazement at the positive results. The study is on-going, recruiting children ages 1-12 who have their cord blood banked with Cord Blood Registry.

In January of this year another FDA-regulated trial began at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to study the use of cord blood stem cells to treat traumatic brain injuries in children. The study is the first of its kind, using stem cells to hopefully provide a better quality of life for those suffering from this condition. Children ages 18 months- 17 years old, who have their cord blood banked with Cord Blood Registry could be eligible to take part.

For inquiries about possible entry into the trials, contact CBR. You can also learn more about research involving the use of cord blood to treat various conditions at the Center for Regenerative Medicine.

Advancing Cord Blood Stem Cell Research – One Clinical Trial at a Time [The Stem Cell Source]