The Wharton's Jelly (WJ) of the umbilical cord (UC) is an excellent source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with a range of potential therapeutic applications. The present study was conducted to demonstrate the efficiency of the protocols used by Biogenea-Cellgenea Ltd. for isolation and expansion of WJ MSCs from donors across Greece. Umbilical cord samples were collected from 599 females following childbirth and processed for WJ MSC isolation. Stem cells were expanded using DMEM-based media and cell counts and overall viability figures derived using Trypan blue exclusion. To investigate the application of isolation and expansion protocols on samples received 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 d after their collection, ten fresh samples were processed at these time intervals and evaluated. The cellular yield of most WJ samples was 1.1–5.0×10(6) cells at 21–30 d after processing. As culture time increased, cell counts decreased. Statistical analysis of mean cell counts showed a significant reduction after 21 d. Finally, we demonstrate for the first time that it is possible to obtain satisfactory cell numbers from samples processed 1, 2, 3, 4 and even 5 d after collection. We have derived favourable data on the protocols used at Biogenea-Cellgenea Ltd. to isolate and culture MSCs from the WJ. Protocol choice is crucial when handling large numbers of samples on a daily basis and should be made to ensure the best possible outcome.

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The peripheral blood is a major source of hematopoietic stem cells. Almost for two decades the peripheral blood has been mobilized, in order to enhance the CD34 + concentration. The isolated stem cells from the mobilized peripheral blood are used as an alternative, or in addition to bone marrow derived stem cells. In this paper, a new perspective is being discussed; the use of non-mobilized peripheral blood as an alternative source for hematopoietic progenitor cells. The number of isolated hematopoietic stem cells is evaluated using flow cytometry. The viability can be evaluated using the trypan blue exclusion test, the flow cytometry or automated assays. The isolated hematopoietic stem cells could be used for ex vivo expansion either in static systems or in proper bioreactor systems, prior to cryopreservation and/or transplantation.