At CBR, we’re always looking for ways to advance the research and use of newborn stem cells. Not only do we want to provide families peace of mind that their newborn stem cells are safely stored, we’re also committed to the long-term research required for potentially treating serious illnesses in the future.

That’s why we’re proud to announce that we’ve awarded a $100,000 grant to the Cord Blood Association Foundation, whose next initiative will be to develop a multi-center study for infusing autologous (self) or sibling’s cord blood in children with certain neurological conditions like autism or cerebral palsy to investigate if this could be a potentially effective treatment option.

What makes these issues so important to us?

First, the future for potentially using newborn stem cell infusions looks bright. Researchers at Duke University and Sutter Medical Center have recently concluded pilot studies investigating the use of a child’s own cord blood for autism which indicated safety. Additionally, Duke University concluded a study last year which investigated the use of a child’s own cord blood for cerebral palsy, and are  currently conducting a clinical trial evaluating the use of a siblings’ cord blood in children with cerebral palsy, and a similar study for children with autism.

However, there is a long way to go before we can say if potential treatments could be clinically effective on a larger scale. This requires more research.

So we want to help in any way we can. CBR was a founding member of the Cord Blood Association and we are excited that the Foundation which was established last year is forging a new path into multi-center research. Our grant to the Cord Blood Association Foundation will help support the scientific research needed to learn more about the potential future uses of cord blood and cord tissue for certain pediatric neurological conditions.

“CBR has long been committed to supporting research on the use of cord blood to treat a variety of diseases, from cerebral palsy and autism to hearing loss and Type I diabetes. We are excited to support the foundation’s scientific research efforts to explore cord blood’s potential in regenerative medicine applications,” said Heather Brown, Vice President of Scientific and Medical Affairs, CBR.

Joanne Kurtzberg, M.D., President, Cord Blood Association Foundation and Chief Scientific Officer had this to say: “Cord Blood Registry’s generous contribution allows the Cord Blood Association Foundation to advance research on the clinical applications of cord blood and cord tissue. With CBR’s support, we are excited to expand access to cord blood infusions through the multi-site study for children with acquired brain injury.”

We too are thrilled to continue leading the way in the research of newborn stem cells and their potential uses to treat serious conditions.

Interested in learning more about preserving newborn stem cells for you and your family? Chat with us today through our website, or call us at 1.888.932.6568.