How Stem Cells Work: Contact Inhibition or How to Stop Making Copies of Yourself

Published on Feb 4, 2014

Learn More About Regenexx^® Procedures

Request a digital booklet and more information to learn about alternatives to orthopedic surgery and the Regenexx patient experience.

We do not sell, or share your information to third party vendors. By submitting the form you agree that you've read and consent to our Privacy Policy.

How Stem Cells Work – Part 6

Today’s installment of How Stem Cells Work sounds daunting, but is pretty simple. What is the big difference between the safety profile of adult stem cells (like the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) we use), embryonic stem cells, and the newer induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS)? The single topic that jumps out is contact inhibition. MSCs are naturally programmed to stop growing when they touch each other. Not so with other stem cells types, hence the concern for embryonic stem cells and iPS cells and tumors. Watch my 1 min video explanation above!

Chris Centeno, MD is a specialist in regenerative medicine and the new field of Interventional Orthopedics. Centeno pioneered orthopedic stem cell procedures in 2005 and is responsible for a large amount of the published research on stem cell use for orthopedic applications. View Profile

If you have questions or comments about this blog post, please email us at [email protected]

NOTE: This blog post provides general information to help the reader better understand regenerative medicine, musculoskeletal health, and related subjects. All content provided in this blog, website, or any linked materials, including text, graphics, images, patient profiles, outcomes, and information, are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please always consult with a professional and certified healthcare provider to discuss if a treatment is right for you.