Stem Cell Therapy for Autism
Author Information
Author(s): Ichim Thomas E, Solano Fabio, Glenn Eduardo, Morales Frank, Smith Leonard, Zabrecky George, Riordan Neil H
Primary Institution: Medistem Laboratories Inc, Tempe, Arizona, USA
Hypothesis
The combined use of mesenchymal stem cells and cord blood CD34+ cells may be useful in the treatment of autism.
Conclusion
The study suggests that stem cell therapy could potentially improve symptoms of autism by addressing underlying issues of hypoperfusion and immune dysregulation.
Supporting Evidence
- Children with autism have been shown to have impaired CNS circulation and hypoxia.
- Mesenchymal stem cells are capable of differentiating into various types of connective tissues and can secrete immune inhibitory factors.
- Clinical trials have shown varying degrees of success with anti-inflammatory treatments in autism.
Takeaway
This study looks at using special cells from umbilical cord blood to help kids with autism feel better by improving blood flow to the brain and fixing immune problems.
Methodology
The authors propose a Phase I/II open labeled study investigating the combination of cord blood expanded CD34+ cells and mesenchymal stem cells for treating autism.
Potential Biases
Concerns about graft versus host disease and immune suppression are noted as potential risks.
Limitations
The study acknowledges that the number of CD34+ cells in cord blood is relatively low and that access to autologous cord blood is limited.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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