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Abstract: One has been trying for several years to find a substitute for red blood cells (RBC). The development of chemical or natural molecules to replace hemoglobin has nevertheless proved difficult and artificial blood is still unattainable. We have described a methodology permitting the massive ex vivo production of mature human RBC having all the characteristics of native adult RBC from hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) of diverse origins: blood, bone marrow or cord blood. This protocol allows both massive expansion of the HSC/progenitors and their complete differentiation to the stage of perfectly functional mature RBC. The levels of amplification obtained (105 to 2×105) are compatible with an eventual transfusion application. We discuss here the state of the art of this new concept and evoke the obstacles to be overcome to pass from the laboratory model to clinical practice. This concept of “cultured RBC” opens up potentially considerable therapeutic perspectives in the field of blood transfusion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The mesenchymal stem cells are a cell population of bone marrow, which have the capacity to differentiate towards all the cells from the locomotor apparatus. They also have immunomodulatory properties and can contribute to tissue repair, thanks to the secretion of many growth factors. Such cells are also found in the cord blood. In the same way, very close stem cells exist in great quantity in fat tissue. These cells are very good candidates in regenerative medicine. Besides, several clinical trials were carried out in order to highlight their effectiveness mainly in osseous repair and also during hematopoietic stem cells graft or cardiac repair after infarction. However, these trials will be able to develop fully only with the condition that culture techniques meeting the conditions of good manufacturing practice are set-up. This presentation gives a progress report on the whole of these subjects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]