Cord blood is the blood that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta following childbirth. This blood is rich in stem cells, which can be used for a variety of medical treatments. After it's collected, cord blood goes through specific processes before it is stored for future use. Understanding what happens to cord blood after it's stored can help parents make informed decisions about their options.

Once cord blood is collected, it is sent to a processing facility. Here, the blood is tested for viability and infectious diseases. This ensures that the cord blood is safe for potential transplantation. Tests typically include checks for various pathogens, including viruses like HIV and hepatitis B and C, as well as blood typing to identify the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) profile, which is crucial for matching with transplant recipients.

After testing, the next step is processing. The cord blood is separated into its components, primarily the stem cells and plasma. The goal of this process is to maximize the number of stem cells that can be stored. This is often done using a method called the density gradient separation, which helps isolate the stem cells from other components in the blood.

Following processing, the cord blood is placed in cryogenic storage bags. These bags are labeled with unique identifiers, ensuring that each sample can be easily tracked. The processed cord blood is then subjected to controlled freezing. Liquid nitrogen is commonly used for this purpose, cooling the samples to extremely low temperatures (around -196°C or -320°F). This freezing process is vital, as it preserves the stem cells and maintains their viability for future use.

Cord blood is typically stored in a dedicated facility designed for cryopreservation. These facilities are equipped to maintain strict temperature control and security protocols to ensure that the samples remain viable. Storage can last for many years, often exceeding 20 years, allowing parents peace of mind knowing that they have a potential medical resource available for their child or family members in the future.

In the event that the stored cord blood is needed, the retrieval process is straightforward. The blood sample is carefully removed from its storage unit and thawed. This process is done under controlled conditions to ensure the stem cells retain their functionality. Once thawed, the cord blood can be used for various treatments, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and certain genetic disorders.

Additionally, research is continually emerging regarding the potential uses of cord blood in regenerative medicine and other therapies. Studies are underway to explore its application in treating conditions such as cerebral palsy and diabetes, making this biological resource even more exciting for future medical advancements.

In conclusion, after cord blood is collected from a newborn, it undergoes rigorous testing, processing, and storage, ensuring it remains a safe and viable option for medical treatments. Parents considering cord blood banking should thoroughly research and choose a reputable facility to maximize the benefits of this valuable biological material.