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Where are hematopoietic stem cells located in the body?

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
Hematopoietic stem cells are mainly distributed in three areas of the human body: bone marrow, peripheral blood, and umbilical cord blood. Umbilical cord blood is primarily composed of hematopoietic stem cells, which can differentiate into various types of blood cells. These cells are typically collected from the umbilical cord shortly after a newborn's birth. Additionally, hematopoietic stem cells may also be found in flat bones. Patients are advised to get adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue.

Hematopoietic stem cells are mainly distributed in three areas of the human body: bone marrow, peripheral blood, and umbilical cord blood.

1. Bone Marrow

Hematopoietic stem cells primarily reside in the red bone marrow. Therefore, during hematopoietic stem cell donation, bone marrow aspiration is a common method. This procedure typically involves continuous epidural anesthesia or general anesthesia, with punctures performed at the posterior superior iliac crests on both sides—namely, the highest points at the back of the pelvic iliac bones. The line connecting these two bilateral posterior superior iliac spines passes between the spinous processes of the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first sacral vertebra. The collected bone marrow blood must be mixed with a cryoprotectant and stored in liquid nitrogen, then warmed before being transfused during transplantation.

2. Peripheral Blood

Peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cells can be directly collected using a blood cell separator to harvest stem cells and mononuclear cells from peripheral blood. Prior to collection, donors need to receive injections of colony-stimulating factors to stimulate the bone marrow to increase production and release hematopoietic stem cells directly into the peripheral circulation, from which the stem cells are then extracted.

3. Umbilical Cord Blood

Hematopoietic stem cells found in the blood remaining in the umbilical cord and placenta after the umbilical cord is clamped and cut following infant delivery. Umbilical cord blood primarily contains hematopoietic stem cells, which can differentiate into various types of blood cells. These cells are usually collected from the umbilical cord immediately after a newborn's birth.

In addition, hematopoietic stem cells may also be distributed in flat bones. It is recommended that individuals maintain adequate rest, avoid excessive fatigue, follow a regular diet, consume more fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoid spicy or irritating foods.

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