What are Mesenchymal Stem / Stromal Cells (MSC)?

The tissue of the umbilical cord is rich in the primitive mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC). These cells can differentiate to bone, cartilage, and fat. More importantly, MSC send signals that modulate the patient's immune system and suppress inflammation. Infusions and injections of MSC are frequently used to treat orthopedic conditions, chronic pain, and auto-immune disorders. Clinical trials with MSC from cord tissue are available for many different disorders.

Reference:
Arnold Caplan PhD & Diego Correa, MD PhD. THE MSC: AN INJURY DRUGSTORE  Cell Stem Cell. 2011; 9(1):11–15.