Transplantation

Pluripotent stem cells could be used to create an unlimited supply of cells, tissues, or even organs that could be used to restore function without the requirement for toxic immuno-suppression and without regard to tissue matching compatibility. Such cells, when used in transplantation therapies, would in effect be suitable for “universal” donation. Bone marrow transplantation, a difficult and expensive procedure associated with significant hazards, could become safe, cost effective, and be available for treating a wide range of clinical disorders, including aplastic anemia and certain inherited blood disorders. This would be especially important in persons who lost marrow function from toxic exposure, for example to radiation or toxic agents. Growth and transplant of other tissues lost to disease or accident, for example, skin, heart, nervous system components, and other major organs, are foreseeable.

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