Leading Stem Cell Expert: Stem Cells 101 - The Future of Medicine w/ Robert Hariri | EP #147
Feb 4, 2025
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Robert Hariri, CEO of Celularity, is a leading authority in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy. He discusses the fascinating world of stem cells, emphasizing their vital role in health and healing. Hariri explains why stem cell treatments aren't widely available in the U.S. and highlights the incredible potential of placental-derived stem cells for tackling diseases and enhancing longevity. His insights into the aging process of stem cells and their future applications promise exciting advancements in personalized healthcare and regenerative medicine.
The regulatory environment in the U.S. hinders access to stem cell therapies, pushing patients to seek treatment abroad due to FDA restrictions.
Stem cells, derived from sources like the placenta, are crucial for tissue regeneration and repair, with significant implications for aging and health maintenance.
Therapies leveraging stem cells have proven effective for numerous conditions, leading to improved recovery outcomes and growing acceptance in modern medicine.
Deep dives
Regulatory Challenges in Stem Cell Research
The current regulatory landscape in the United States presents significant challenges for stem cell therapies, resulting in the need for Americans to seek treatments abroad. This situation stems from the conservative nature of the FDA and the rigorous process required for therapeutic approval, which has left the U.S. behind other countries regarding accessibility to stem cell treatments. Despite decades of experience with stem cells, including established practices like bone marrow transplantation, the regulatory hurdles prevent widespread therapy availability. The potential therapeutic benefits of stem cells are substantial, and there is a growing belief that the advantages outweigh the perceived risks of long-term safety.
The Biological Importance of Stem Cells
Stem cells are fundamental to human development and tissue repair, originating from a single totipotent cell formed at conception. As they develop, these stem cells differentiate into various specialized cells, forming the tissues and organs of the body while reserving the ability to replicate themselves. This capacity for self-renewal enables continuous renovation of tissues, effectively acting as the body's natural repair kit. Over time, the supply of stem cells diminishes, contributing to the aging process as their ability to regenerate tissues declines, which highlights their significance in maintaining health.
Sources and Types of Stem Cells
Stem cells can be sourced from various tissues, with significant interest in those derived from placentas, cord blood, and adult tissues. The placenta serves as an abundant source of versatile stem cells and is not associated with ethical concerns, as it is typically discarded after birth. Additionally, stem cells can be harvested from various adult tissues, including bone marrow and adipose tissue, but these often come with more invasive procedures. The different types of stem cells, such as autologous (derived from the same individual) and allogeneic (from another donor), have unique advantages and applications in regenerative medicine.
The Aging Process and Stem Cell Exhaustion
As individuals age, there is a marked decline in the availability of functioning stem cells in various tissues, a phenomenon known as stem cell exhaustion. The ratio of stem cells in tissues decreases significantly from infancy to old age, limiting the body's ability to repair and regenerate. This reduction leads to increased difficulty in recovering from injuries and contributes to the overall decline in health associated with aging. Strategies to augment or supplement stem cell populations, including the use of stored stem cells, are becoming essential for people aiming to preserve their health and functionality into older age.
Therapeutic Applications and Success Stories
Stem cell therapies have shown promising potential in treating a variety of conditions, notably joint problems and injuries. Success stories abound among both the general public and celebrities who have sought treatment, highlighting significant improvements in pain relief and recovery times. For instance, notable public figures have turned to these therapies after suffering extensive injuries, leading to remarkable recoveries that showcase the effectiveness of stem cell interventions. The increasing acceptance and application of stem cell treatments across different demographics underscore their role as a fundamental part of modern regenerative medicine.
In this episode, Bob and Peter discuss Stem Cells 101, why it’s not available in America, and the importance of stem cell treatment for humanity.
Recorded on Nov 21st, 2024
Views are my own thoughts; not Financial, Medical, or Legal Advice.
Dr. Robert Hariri is the Chairman, Founder, and CEO of Celularity, Inc., a leader in human cellular therapeutics developing placental stem cell-based therapies for cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions. A distinguished surgeon, scientist, and entrepreneur, Dr. Hariri is known for discovering pluripotent stem cells from the human placenta and holds over 170 patents in the field. He founded Anthogenesis Corporation, later acquired by Celgene, and co-founded Human Longevity, Inc. Dr. Hariri, an MD and PhD graduate from Cornell University, serves as an Adjunct Professor of Neurosurgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and has earned prestigious honors, including the Pontifical Medal for Innovation and two Thomas Alva Edison Awards. His groundbreaking work continues to shape regenerative medicine and immuno-oncology. He’s also a founding partner of Fountain Life.
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