Umbilical Cord Cells Are Effective Against Leukemia

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Cancer-Fighting Cells in Cord Blood Increased

Umbilical Cord Cells Are Effective Against Leukemia

Umbilical cord blood, which a mother produces to nourish her unborn child,

contains natural killer (NK) cells that are especially effective against

leukemia. Researchers have found a way to dramatically increase the number of

these cells in laboratory samples that might be collected for use in cancer

patients.

Significance of results

In the study, M. D. researchers increased the number of NK cells in

umbilical cord blood more than 30-fold while maintaining the cell's

effectiveness against leukemia cells. The results were presented in May at the

American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology annual conference.

NK cells target and kill cancer cells without disturbing normal cells. This

characteristic reduces the chance of NK cells causing the development of

graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

GVHD is caused by T cells (a type of white blood cell) in the transplanted blood

that react against the body's own cells.

" Cord blood is a promising source of NK cells, " says Zweidler-McKay,

M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor in the Division of Pediatrics at the Children's

Cancer Hospital at M. D. . " They're more sensitive to stimulation than

those from other sources and have a lower possibility of causing

graft-versus-host disease. Also, cord blood cells are easily available from cord

banks throughout the country and the world. "

Zweidler-McKay led the research study with co-senior investigator

Shpall, M.D., professor in M. D. 's Department of Stem Cell

Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. Research scientist Dongxia Xing, Ph.D., in

Shpall's lab was an integral part of the research as well.

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http://www.cancerwise.org/September_2008/print.cfm?id=BBEE0EF9-B705-42E9-80E16A4\

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