Researchers Develop Less Invasive Stem Cell Collection Method For Vaginal Deliveries

The Washington Post (7/26, Blakemore) reported that in a study published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine, researchers “figured out a way to successfully collect and isolate the stem cells during vaginal deliveries, a less risky means than amniocentesis.” Instead of collecting fluid from the amniotic sac, “researchers used a syringe to collect fluid from either the vaginal canal or pooled fluid during the birth. They successfully collected and isolated stem cells from all four fluid samples, then programmed the cells to grow into cardiac tissue.” Researchers said, “We can then turn those cells into beating heart cells and use them later in treating congenital heart defects.”