Stem cell transplantation - new treatment approaches

Stem cell research still remains one of the most controversial fields of science today on account cell plasticity and its capability of transdifferentiation or de-differentiations to certain tissue types, as well as the clinical application of this scientific concept. Stem cells derived from bone marrow, peripheral blood or the umbilical cords are a common therapeutic approach for treatment of haematological malignancies as part of established transplant procedures (allogeneic, autologous, syngeneic stem cell transplantation). But recent clinical data have revealed the potential role of stem cells in the treatment of other nonhaematological diseases, degenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune diseases. The experience with stem cell transplantation in haematological malignancies at the Hematology Department, Skopje, has been established since it was set up 7 years ago, with more than 130 patients undergoing transplant procedures (87 autologous and 43 allogeneic recipients). Encouraging results were also reported from the Skopje Cardiology Clinic in the field of intracoronary application of bone marrow derived stem cells for the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction. But this new rout in tissue regeneration should still be further extended and evaluated in clinically randomized studies that will confirm the therapeutic potential of stem cells.