This week, a groundbreaking study conducted by Mayo Clinic has revealed promising results in the use of stem cell therapy to improve sensation and movement in patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries. Published in Nature Communications, the Phase I clinical trial demonstrated the safety and potential benefits of using stem cells derived from patients’ own fat.
The study, which involved 10 adult participants, showed that seven individuals exhibited improvements based on the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. These improvements included increased sensation, enhanced muscle strength, and recovery of voluntary anal contraction, crucial for bowel function. Notably, the seven participants who showed improvements each advanced by at least one level on the ASIA scale, indicating tangible progress in their conditions.
Dr. Mohamad Bydon, a neurosurgeon at Mayo Clinic and the lead author of the study, emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, “This study documents the safety and potential benefit of stem cells and regenerative medicine. Spinal cord injury is a complex condition, and future research may show whether stem cells, in combination with other therapies, could offer a new approach to improving patient outcomes.”
Importantly, the trial reported no serious adverse events following the stem cell treatment, with the most commonly reported side effects being manageable issues such as headache and musculoskeletal pain. This positive safety profile underscores the viability of stem cell therapy as a potential treatment option for spinal cord injuries.
In addition to evaluating safety, the clinical trial also assessed changes in motor and sensory function as a secondary outcome. While the authors acknowledge the limitations of Phase I trials in interpreting motor and sensory results, the study sets the stage for further research involving a larger cohort to more comprehensively evaluate the risks and benefits of stem cell therapy.
The study’s participants, who had sustained spinal cord injuries from various causes including motor vehicle accidents and falls, ranged in age from 18 to 65. Notably, the mechanism of action of the stem cells used in the therapy remains not fully understood, highlighting the need for continued investigation into their potential therapeutic effects.
This groundbreaking research builds upon a 2019 case report that showcased significant improvements in motor and sensory function in the first study participant, providing further momentum for the exploration of stem cell therapy as a potential game-changer in the treatment of spinal cord injuries.
