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Did you know that up to 1 in 10 babies are born early every year?1 Babies born before 32 weeks are at higher risk for brain injuries that may lead to the development of cerebral palsy (CP) or other neurological issues.2 Now, scientists are studying whether using a baby’s own cord blood could potentially help lower that risk.
An important first step
In 2019, Cell Care, the Australian sister company of Insception Lifebank, helped launch CORD-SaFe, a first-of-its-kind study. The goal was to assess cord blood collection and re-infusion in babies born at less than 28 weeks. Early results were promising – collection and re-infusion was feasible in approximately 70% of these extremely preterm infants, and there were no short-term safety concerns associated with the infusions.3
In July 2025, researchers shared additional outcomes of the study, which assessed certain developmental findings in their first few months of life.4 Notably, although not statistically significant, none of the babies who received a cord blood infusion were found to be at high risk of developing cerebral palsy. By comparison, nearly 7% of the babies in the non-treatment group were identified as high-risk for cerebral palsy. While not statistically significant, this warrants further investigation on the efficacy of cord blood for extremely premature infants.*
What comes next
Based on these results, a larger international trial known as CORD-CELL is currently underway.5 This study, which aims to enroll approximately 300 participants, will assess whether cord blood infusions can improve certain long-term outcomes in very premature infants.
With 70% to 80% of very premature babies experiencing neurological or psychiatric disease,6 studies such as these embody our commitment to giving babies a stronger start in life.
The power of planning ahead
At Insception Lifebank, we believe that every family should have the power to participate in the future of newborn medicine. Have friends or family who are expecting a child or grandchild? Join Insception Lifebank today or refer a friend. When someone you refer preserves with Insception Lifebank, you’ll receive a cheque or storage credit to fund your storage fees.† — and they’ll receive special pricing on our newborn stem cell bundle.
