Stem cells, undifferentiated cells with tremendous self renewal capacity and potency, act as repair system of body. These cells are confined to their niche in the organ systems. Umbilical cord is one of the most common sources of stem cells. Umbilical cord derived stem cells shows expression of pluripotency markers and share similar growth kinetics to embryonic stem cells. It is easily accessible in large quantities and can be used for various applications such as model systems in veterinary and human research, transgenesis and regenerative medicine. Here, we report the isolation of stem cells from human umbilical cord. Immunophenotypic characterization using flow cytometry suggests their mesenchymal origin. When cultured in adipogenic medium, these mesenchymal stem cells could differentiate into adipose, thus, indicating their potency.
