Stem Cells For Multiple Sclerosis: A New Hope For Recovery

Introduction 

Living with multiple sclerosis means navigating multiple unpredictable symptoms, with limited treatment outcomes. Current research on stem cells for multiple sclerosis has introduced a regenerative approach, hence opening a new avenue in curative treatment.  

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by demyelination, neuroinflammation and axonal loss. Globally, approximately 2.9 million individuals are suffering from MS. Despite significant advances in understanding immunopathogenesis in Stem Cells for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the current therapies are limited in slowing the disease progression. The growing research in regenerative treatment leads to advanced treatment options. 

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis

MS is an immune-mediated disorder, where the immune system of the individual attacks myelin (the protective sheath covering nerve fibers). It results in the disruption of communication between the brain and other body parts. The typical clinical manifestations of MS include:

• Visual impairment accompanied by optic neuritis
• Motor deficit
• Partial myelitis
• Diplopia
• Vertigo (infratentorial syndrome)
• Imbalance and motor weakness
• In severe cases, MS can be multifocal (affects various regions of the central nervous system)

Type of Multiple Sclerosis

Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS):

The majority of the individuals with MS fall under this type. Individuals either experience new symptoms or a relapse of the older symptoms occurs at distinct time intervals.

Secondary-Progressive MS (SPMS):

Approximately 20% to 40% of the RRMS patients can show a steady progression of the MS symptoms. The progression might develop either with or without episodes of relapse. The secondary symptom progression occurs between 10 and 40 years of disease onset.

Primary-Progressive MS (PPMS):

Individuals experience a gradual progression of disease symptoms without any relapse.  

What are the Risk Factors?

The common factors that potentially increase MS risk include:

1. Age: MS can affect individuals at any age. Most commonly occurs between 20 and 40 years.
2. Sex: Females are more likely to be affected
3. Genetics: An individual with a family history of MS
4. Infections: Certain infections with the Epstein-Barr virus, called mononucleosis, increases chances of MS relapse. 
5. Race: Individuals with white skin (Northern European Descent) are more prone to develop MS 

What Causes Multiple Sclerosis in Females?

Females are atleast 2-3 times more at higher risk to develop MS, but the exact cause is uncovered. Studies reflect the role of certain hormonal and immunological factors responsible for it. The factors include:

• Hormonal Factors: Scientists believe that the role of testosterone and estrogen plays. Till puberty, there is no significant difference in the occurrence of MS among boys and girls. However, once adults there is a striking difference in the rate of occurrence
• Pregnancy: Affects occurrence, remission and relapses. Postpartum relapse is often common.
• Obesity & Body Fat: Women typically have more body fat in comparison with males. Obesity is associated with inflammation. It is one of the major triggering factors leading to MS symptoms relapse.
• Vitamin D Deficiencies: Lower Vitamin D in patients is positively associated with increased cases of relapse. Vitamin D deficiency is more common among women due to frequent hormonal shifts, loss of estrogen during menopause, etc.

Current Diagnosis & Treatment modalities for Multiple Sclerosis 

Diagnosis

Standard diagnostic test includes:

• MRI: Detection of a lesion in the brain
• Lumbar Puncture: Cerebrospinal fluid collected from the spinal canal, a change in antibodies helps in identifying MS. 
• Optical Coherence Tomography: Light waves produce images of the eye
• Blood Tests: Biomarkers associated with MS
• Neuropsychological Testing: Examines memory, social skills, and language

Treatment

• Medications: Corticosteroids for managing inflammation
• Plasma Exchange: Plasma mixed with albumin and placed in the body
• Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs): Includes prescribing injectables (interferon beta medicines, ofatumumab, etc.), oral treatments (teriflunomide, diroximel fumarate, siponimod, etc.), and infusion (monoclonal antibodies like natalizumab, ocrelizumab)
• Physical Therapy: Occupational therapy for muscle strengthening, muscle relaxants, and medication to reduce fatigue or improve walking abilities.

Stem Cells for Multiple Sclerosis

Stem Cells for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment are widely explored due to factors like:

• Regenerative potential 
• immunomodulatory and neuroprotective mechanisms
• Remyelination and repair of the neural network

There are different types of stem cells researched for MS therapy This includes hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UCMSCs)

Preclinical & Clinical Research

• Clinical Trial Phase I and Phase II: Used UCMSCs for treating MS patients 
• Route of Administration: Cell administered through the intravenous route over multiple days. 
• Safety: Infusion was well-tolerated and safe for MS patients.
• Functional Improvement: Bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction, motor function improvement, reduction in fatigues and improved energy levels
• Imaging: Improved MRI lesion activity

Stem cell therapy showed improvement in the quality of life of the patient.

Multiple Sclerosis Stem Cell Treatment: Procedure Overview

Procedures involved in MS stem cell treatment:

• Determination of patient eligibility and evaluation of medical history
• Harvesting of stem cells (MSCs) and processing
• Administration of stem cells from determined routes
• Post-treatment monitoring of the individuals 
• Aftercare and Follow-ups

Stem Cell Treatment in India: Current Landscape

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in India has been revolutionized with the advancement of stem cell research. Currently, India is a popular destination for opting for stem cell treatment. Major reason includes:

• India have world class medical facilities
• Presence of highly qualified physicians
• Low prices and high standards
• The presence of well-defined ethical regulation safeguard patient and ensures correct treatment

*NOTE: It is essential to procure stem cells of superior quality to ensure optimal results. Advancells, Noida, is one of the leading research laboratories that conducts advanced research on stem cells for various rare and critical diseases. 

Cost incurred in Stem Cell Therapy 

The cost of multiple sclerosis Treatment by​ stem cells varies depending on various factors. In the US, the cost ranges between $20,000 to $100,000 USD. In India, the cost of treatment is between $25,000 to 30,000 USD. The cost depends on factors like:

• Complexity of the problem
• Duration of hospital stay
• Fees of the surgeon
• Pre and post-treatment test cost

Risks & Safety Effects 

No significant side effects are reported with stem cell therapy for MS. Some of the risk involves:

• Infection susceptibility
• Development of an autoimmune condition, such as autoimmune thyroiditis
• Theoretical possibility of developing tumourigenicity

Currently, there is a need for long-term clinical trial safety on a larger population for estab;lishing safety of stem cells for multiple sclerosis. 

Multiple Sclerosis Patient Success Stories

Conclusion & Future Outlook 

• Stem cells for multiple sclerosis are a regenerative approach that can introduce curative outcomes.
• Conventional treatments (medication) have potential side effects
• Emphasize on evidence-based decision-making
• A combination of stem cell treatment with other therapies can potentially have optimal outcomes.

FAQ’s

Q- What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease where the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, which is responsible for protecting nerve fibers in the brain. 

Q- Why is multiple sclerosis more common among females?

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis among females is unknown. However, certain factors like hormonal changes, genetics, immune system deficiencies, environmental factors, and obesity are responsible for MS relapses.

Q- Can stem cell therapy cure multiple sclerosis?

Stem cell therapy can potentially modulate abnormal immune responses and repair damaged nerves. Stem cells enables remyelination, hence the therapy addresses the root cause of the problem.

Q- What type of stem cells are used for MS treatment?

Generally, MSCs have shown potential in treating MS. MSCs have regenerative potential and also have the ability to introduce paracrine effects. This includes anti-inflammation, antioxidants, and modulation of the immune system.