FAQ
- Where exactly are stem cells found within the human body?
While somatic stem cells exist in various tissues throughout the human body, extensive research demonstrates that they are particularly abundant within subcutaneous fat. At our clinic, we utilize a specialized method that minimally and safely harvests these stem cells from the subcutaneous fat located just behind the ear.
- What is the homing effect?
The homing effect refers to a remarkable physiological phenomenon where stem cells, once administered into the body, spontaneously navigate to damaged or inflamed tissues, clustering at the site to actively drive repair and regeneration. When delivered intravenously, these stem cells travel throughout the entire body via the peripheral blood circulation, seamlessly reaching the injured areas through both the lymphatic system and blood vessels, where they adhere to the vascular endothelium, infiltrate the surrounding tissue, and ultimately undergo proliferation and differentiation to transform into the precise target cells needed.
- Why Helene harvest adipose tissue from the area behind the ear? Is it scientifically proven to contain stem cells?
The subcutaneous fat behind the ear is exceptionally rich in stem cells and is uniquely characterized by its high tissue uniformity; since the volume of fat droplets here is much smaller compared to fat from the abdomen or thighs, it maintains an optimal environment for stem cell growth, making tissue harvested from this area far superior in both the quantity and quality of the stem cells obtained. Furthermore, because the area behind the ear is naturally discreet, any minimal scarring remains virtually imperceptible, significantly easing the psychological burden for our patients.
- What is the difference between stem cells and exosomes?
Exosomes secreted by stem cells play a role in some of the functions of stem cells, including cytokine release, regulation of immune balance, and suppression of inflammation. Furthermore, because they are extremely small, about 1/200th the size of a typical cell, they are expected to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reach target tissues such as the brain and nerve cells to exert their effects.
When stem cells are administered into the body, the engrafted cells secrete exosomes for a certain period of time, supporting tissue repair and regeneration. However, exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) and not cells themselves. Therefore, they do not have the ability to replicate or proliferate on their own, nor do they have the ability to differentiate into other cells and replace tissues.
Related article: What is stem cell therapy (derived from the patient's own fat)?
