Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a slow, gradually progressive disease that is what scientists and doctors call “multifactorial” in nature; that is, the things that kick it off and contribute to it are many and varied. One common denominator with Atherosclerosis is damage to and dysfunction of the lining of arteries called the endothelium. This endothelial damage in Atherosclerosis can, in the presence of hyperlipidemia or high levels of “bad lipids” such as LDL (Oxidized Low Density Lipoprotein) and triglycerides, precipitate and/or contribute to disturbed blood flow. As endothelial cells die neighboring mature endothelial cells proliferate and migrate to heal the wound. When this is severe, however, stem cells are called upon to help heal this up.

Stem Cells Role in Atherosclerosis:

Unfortunately, the stem cells in blood vessels are not always up to the job of repair and regeneration. The chemical signals produced by the injured blood vessels then attracts circulating bone marrow stem cells. However, as we age our bone marrow not infrequently begins to harbor more and more scenescent stem cells. To offset this Dr. Steenblock prods the body to mobilize these tired old stem cells into the patient’s blood stream by use of some hormones called colony stimulating factors. These are given for 5 consecutive days by injection. After this only healthy stem cells remain behind in the marrow and these then begin reproducing in order to replace the cells that have been mobilized. Dr. David Steenblock has found that in two weeks time a patient’s bone marrow has upwards of 10 times more healthy stem cells than were present prior to this! Once a patient’s bone marrow is brimming with robust, healthier stem cells, Dr. Steenblock harvests this and gives it back to patients by IV.

Dr. Steenblock’s Comprehensive Approach to Atherosclerosis:

In addition to using a patient’s own stem cells, Dr. Steenblock’s comprehensive approach to atherosclerosis includes (1) identifying and dealing with dietary, lifestyle and other factors that contribute to the atherosclerotic disease process and progression; and (2) removing impediments that tend to compromise patient responses to stem cells as well as stem cell activity in the body.