Unlocking the power of stem cells
What are
stem cells?
Stem cells play a vital role in tissue repair and regeneration, making them valuable in veterinary medicine. Stem cells are capable of becoming all the different types of cells. They maintain the body’s function through three key mechanisms.
Three key mechanisms
Self-renewal
This is when cells multiply themselves. Imagine one cell being like a baker making bread—when it divides, it’s like the baker doubling their dough to make more loaves. In biology, cells do this to grow tissues, repair damage, or just keep your body running smoothly. So, proliferation is basically how cells create more of themselves to keep things going!
Specialisation
This is when cells take on specific roles or jobs in the body. Imagine a group of people at a party—some decide to be chefs, others become DJs, and a few take on cleaning duties. Similarly, cells start out as "generalists" (stem cells) and then "specialise" into specific types like muscle cells, nerve cells, or skin cells, depending on what the body needs. It’s like assigning each cell a career to keep everything running smoothly!
Maintenance
In the context of cells, maintenance is all about keeping everything in good working order. Think of it like regular car servicing—checking the oil, fixing small issues, and replacing worn-out parts to keep the engine running smoothly. For cells, this means repairing damage, getting rid of old or faulty cells, and ensuring everything stays balanced so the body stays healthy. It’s the body’s way of doing routine upkeep!
*Note: Currently, we only support pre-desexed puppies.
Why age matters
Stem cells at the earliest stage of development have more choices in what cell types they become. In their undifferentiated state, stem cells play a critical role in ensuring the body is capable of healing in response to injuries, and maintains balance. As our pets age, there is a decline in the potential of these stem cells to maintain your pet’s health.
Here at Elita Genetics, we’re able to freeze the biological clock at where the stem cells are fittest. If and when your pet needs treatment, those cells have the potential to be used for personalised therapies to combat illness and alleviate pain.
Global research is driving stem cell advancements
Current applications & future directions in Veterinary
This study examines how stem cell therapeutics are advancing veterinary care, with applications in treating conditions from joint issues to organ diseases. Learn how this research is paving the way for more effective and personalised therapies for canine companions.
Read the full study
How donor age impacts stem cell potential
This study explores how donor age affects the ability of stem cells, isolated from horses of different ages, to differentiate into cartilage and bone. Findings align with human and mouse studies, emphasising the critical role of donor age in stem cell performance.
Read the full study
Evaluating Stem Cell therapy for canine Osteoarthritis
This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of using autologous, or 'your own,' stem cells from adipose tissue to treat canine osteoarthritis. Results show this minimally invasive approach improves pain control, joint function, and synovial fluid quality, offering a promising OA treatment.
Read the full study
Keeping pets healthy while empowering vets with advanced care options
"Having seen the effects of stem cell therapy overseas, I am delighted to finally have access to this revolutionary therapy in Australia. As veterinary care for pets progresses, we need more options for managing chronic disease like osteoarthritis, and stem cell therapy is a great option for older patients with comorbidities where traditional approaches may not be ideal."