First Menstrual blood bank promises easy source of stem cells

New Delhi, May 26 (PTI) For the first time, India will
have a menstrual blood bank which would be used for developing
stem cells for treating various disorders.

Scientists say menstrual blood discarded from the female
body once a month, considered impure and unhygienic for a long
time, is a rich source of stem cells.

Chennai-based LifeCell International which brought cord
blood banking to India plans to launch its new project
"menstrual stem cell banking" in the month of July.

"We are planning to launch the project in the month of
July. It is a richer source of stem cell in comparison to bone
marrow as it regenerates every month," Mayur Abhaya, Executive
Director, LifeCell International said."

Women can store their blood by paying a fee and this can
be used when they need it for any treatment.

Menstrual blood can be used to develop nine different
types of cells including heart, nerve, lung, muscle, liver,
pancreatic, fat, bone and nerve cells that form the lining
inside the blood vessels.

"It is a painless non-invasive manner as compared to
some other stem cell sources such as bone marrow," Dr Ajit
Kumar, chief scientific officer, LifeCell International said.

"They could be used to treat patients without the fear
of tissue rejection, and they avoid the ethical questions
associated with embryonic stem cells," Dr Ajit added.

Disclosing the collection procedure he said, "The
collection kit constitutes a silicon cup that can collect up
to 30 ml blood. We need only 10 ml blood. This is like any
other sanitary napkin or tampon and it can last up to eight
hours." he said.

LifeCell International has already roped gynecologists
to spread awareness about this new bank and its facilities.

"Already 50 gynecologist have used the kit to check its
efficacy. Any woman interested to put int the bank her
menstrual blood would consult her doctor first. That is why
they hae been involved in this." Dr Kumar said. PTI SWT
RKM