Cord tissue is the tissue of the umbilical cord itself, sometimes called Wharton's jelly. It is rich in mesenchymal stem cells, or MSCs, a different type of stem cell from those found in cord blood.
Cord blood contains hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which form blood and immune cells. Cord tissue contains mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have natural anti inflammatory properties and can form cell types such as bone, cartilage and muscle. The two work in different ways, which is why many families store both.
Cord tissue does not yet have proven standard treatments. Its mesenchymal stem cells are being studied in clinical trials around the world, for conditions that cord blood cannot address. Researchers are hopeful, but these uses are still investigational.
Storing both lets you preserve two types of stem cells from one birth, in one simple step. It is the widest range of preservation we offer, and it can only be done once.
We collect a short segment of the cord at the same time as cord blood. It is simple and does not change your birth plan. See the Cord Tissue Collection page for the steps.
* Cord tissue stem cells have not been used in standard treatment yet. Research is ongoing, and whether a sample can be used is decided by a doctor.
