Why store cord tissue as well as cord blood?

Cord blood and cord tissue contain different types of cells, which have the potential for different types of treatment. In simple terms, cord blood is a rich source of blood stem cells (haemopoietic stem cells or HSCs) and other types of immune cells. Cord tissue contains mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which form into bone, cartilage, muscle and tendon. MSCs also have the potential to form into nerve cells, and have qualities that dampen the immune system and reduce inflammation. HSCs and MSCs have different roles in the body, and hence lead to the potential for different treatments.