Myth or Reality: The Umbilical Cord is Full of Stem Cells?

Myth or Reality: The Umbilical Cord is Full of Stem Cells?

Reality: The umbilical cord contains a mix of cell types, not just stem cells.

• Cord blood contains hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which contribute to blood cell formation. It also includes:

  • Red blood cells (carry oxygen)
  • White blood cells (fight infections)
  • Platelets (facilitate clotting)

• Cord tissue contains multiple types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), found in:

  • The lining of the cord
  • The lining of blood vessels
  • Wharton’s jelly (the protective gel-like substance around blood vessels)