In an unprecedented medical achievement, researchers at the Mayo Clinic in the United States have demonstrated that stem cell therapy has enabled a once fully paralyzed patient to regain the ability to walk. The details of this breakthrough were highlighted in a study, emphasizing the role of stem cells derived from body fat in potentially restoring motor functions and sensitivity in paralysis cases.
The innovative phase 1 clinical trial focused on a group of 10 participants who suffered from spinal cord injuries. These patients underwent a procedure to harvest stem cells from either the abdominal or thigh area, which were then meticulously cultivated in a laboratory setting over the course of several weeks to generate millions of new mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). These MSCs were subsequently administered via injections into the lumbar region of the patient’s spine.
Notably, the infused stem cells were observed to navigate towards the damaged segments of the spinal cord, significantly contributing to the rehabilitation process. Over a follow-up period ranging from two to three years, patients continued to be evaluated to gauge the effectiveness of the stem cell treatment.
The findings of the study, now published in the reputable scientific journal Nature Communications, indicated a positive trend with seven out of the ten patients experiencing notable enhancements in their abilities to sense and move. These improvements included increased muscle strength and heightened sensitivity to tactile stimuli.
Source: WION