Richard Zelman MD | Types of Cells Used in Cardiac Cell Therapy
There are several types of cells that have been investigated
for their potential to regenerate cardiac tissue:
Stem Cells: Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have
the potential to develop into various cell types, including cardiomyocytes. Dr. Richard Zelman notes that two primary types of stem cells are used in cardiac therapy:
embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and adult stem cells. ESCs have a high potential
for differentiation but come with ethical concerns and the risk of immune
rejection. On the other hand, adult stem cells, such as mesenchyme stem cells
(MSCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), are more commonly used due
to their ability to differentiate into heart cells and their lower risk of
rejection.
Cardiac Progenitor Cells: These are specialized cells found
in the heart that can differentiate into cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells,
and endothelial cells. Dr. Zelman explains that cardiac progenitor cells are
particularly promising because they are naturally programmed to develop into
heart tissue, making them an ideal candidate for cardiac regeneration.
Skeletal Myoblasts: These are precursor cells found in
skeletal muscle tissue. Dr. Zelman notes that while skeletal myoblasts can
survive in the hostile environment of an injured heart and resist ischemic
damage, their integration into cardiac tissue has proven challenging due to
differences in electrical activity between skeletal and cardiac muscle cells.
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