Methodology
High care with utmost precision
Cryopreservation
Cells are cryopreserved using reagents approved for human use (xeno-free), ensuring that no non-human animal products are utilised.
Storage Temperature
After processing, cells are stored at -196°C in a liquid nitrogen tank equipped with an audible alarm. A backup system is in place to handle unexpected failures.
Length of Storage
Cells stored at -196°C can be preserved indefinitely. Thus, there is no expiry date for cord blood stored in liquid nitrogen. Your child's cord blood will remain safely cryopreserved in our laboratory for a lifetime.
Cord Blood : A Valuable Resource
Cord blood, drawn from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born, was once considered biological waste. Now, it is recognised as a rich source of stem cells that can be frozen for future medical therapies, including cord blood transplants, clinical trials, tissue-engineered organs, and isolating growth factors. These stem cells are different from both embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells, with the ability to grow into blood, immune system cells, and other cell types.
Nourishment and Collection
In the womb, the baby receives nourishment through the umbilical cord, which acts as a channel for essential nutrients. Post-delivery, this channel, along with the placenta, is usually discarded. However, both are rich in stem cells. These stem cells are pluripotent, capable of differentiating into various cell types, including blood, heart, lung, bone, and muscle cells.
Collection Process
When parents choose to preserve their child’s cord blood, they sign an agreement with the cord blood bank. A collection kit is provided, which is handed to the obstetrician at delivery. After the baby is born, cord blood is collected using a sterile blood bag needle. This procedure is completely safe for both mother and child. The collected blood is then packed with ice packs and transported to the laboratory by the company’s personnel.
Processing and Banking
At the lab, the sample is processed using Stem Plus's unique technology that minimises the use of reagents to isolate stem cells and VSEL (Very Small Embryonic-Like) cells, which are even more potent than stem cells. The isolated stem cells are stored at -196°C in liquid nitrogen, ensuring long-term preservation without deterioration. This method of preservation is independent of electricity, preventing any risk of power failure.