Peripheral blood harvested from the circulating blood stream, much like umbilical cord blood, contains predominantly Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The presence of stem cells in peripheral blood is indirectly induced through the introduction of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (GCS-F) into the blood stream. Stem cells harvested this way are known as peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC).
PBSCs harvested are brought to the laboratory to be processed, and ultimately stored in a cryogenic preservation tank at -190ยบ Celcius in vapour phase.
Why Store Peripheral Blood Stem Cells?
Ideal for adult individuals who did not have the opportunity to store their cord blood stem cells in the past. Peripheral blood stem cells are currently being used to treat leukemia.
Readily available autologous PBSC is best depending on the urgency of treatment.
Note: Although cord blood stem cells are widely used and safe, there is a small risk in administering GCS-F to harvest PBSCs as side effects such as blood vessel blockage, bone pain, nausea and even spleen rupture have been reported.
