QualiCell® Human Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells

Human Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells (hAFSCs) are fetal-derived stem-like cells derived from human amniotic fluid which is most commonly collected from the mother's womb during amniocentesis as part of routine prenatal screening. The cells within the amniotic fluid consist of a variety of different cell types present within the fetus and only represent a small subset of cells within the fluid demonstrate stem cell characteristics including surface expression of the cell surface marker CD117 (c-kit).

hAFSCs represent a cell type that is intermediate between embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells, specifically adult mesenchymal stem cells. They have an extensive proliferative capacity and can be expanded in vitro for several passages while maintaining genetic stability. They can differentiate into osteogenic, adipogenic, chondrogenic, neural, and hepatic lineages when given appropriate conditions. Along with low immunogenicity and low ethical controversy they can be translated easily into various fields of study.

In terms of applications, hAFSCs have shown significant promise in regenerative medicine, where they are used for tissue repair in models of cardiac injury, kidney disease, and neurodegeneration. In tissue engineering, they serve as seed cells for constructing bone, cartilage, and skin substitutes. They are also valuable in prenatal and perinatal therapy, offering potential for early intervention in congenital disorders. Furthermore, hAFSCs are increasingly utilized in disease modeling and drug screening, particularly for studying genetic diseases and developmental biology, due to their fetal origin and stable expansion capacity.