How does stem cell therapy help those with Cerebral Palsy? Let’s first look at what CP is, how it occurs and how the stem cells that we administer have been proven to help significantly.
Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, posture, and muscle tone. The condition is caused by damage or abnormalities in the developing brain, often before or during birth. Neurons, the cells that transmit information in the brain, play a critical role in cerebral palsy. We’re going to talk about how the stem cells that we use help rebuild neurons in a moment.
The damage to the brain that causes cerebral palsy can affect the development and function of neurons in various ways. For example, it can disrupt the formation of connections between neurons or cause abnormal connections to form. It can also damage or destroy neurons, leading to a loss of function in specific areas of the brain.
The severity and type of cerebral palsy depend on the extent and location of the brain damage. Some people with cerebral palsy may have relatively mild symptoms, while others may experience significant motor and cognitive impairments. Treatment for cerebral palsy In the United States typically focus on managing symptoms and promoting development and function though the use of medication, physical therapy, speech therapy, and surgery, and unfortunately results are limited.
How does stem cell therapy help with Cerebral Palsy?
Stem cell therapy utilizing Wharton’s jelly derived stem cells, which are derived from the umbilical cord, are now widely recognized as an effective treatment for cerebral palsy. Wharton’s jelly stem cells have several advantages over other types of stem cells, including their ability to differentiate into various types of cells, their immunomodulatory properties, and their non-existent risk of causing an immune response. These properties make them an attractive solution for treating CP.
Wharton’s Jelly-derived stem cells (WJ-MSCs) have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including neuronal cells. When WJ-MSCs are introduced to damaged neurons, they can help rebuild the neurons in the following ways:
- 1Neurotrophic Support: WJ-MSCs can secrete various growth factors and cytokines that support the growth and survival of neurons. These growth factors can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels and promote the growth of new nerve cells and their connections.
- Immune Modulation: WJ-MSCs can also modulate the immune response in the damaged area, thereby reducing inflammation and preventing further damage to the neurons. This immune modulation helps to create a favorable environment for the repair and regeneration of neurons.
- Differentiation: WJ-MSCs can differentiate into various cell types, including neurons. When WJ-MSCs are transplanted into the damaged area, they can differentiate into neurons and replace the damaged cells.
- Cell Replacement: In addition to differentiating into neurons, WJ-MSCs can also replace damaged cells by fusing with them or by releasing cellular material that can be taken up by the damaged cells, thereby repairing them.
There is clinical evidence that Wharton’s jelly stem cells can help improve the symptoms of cerebral palsy. These stem cells can promote the growth of new nerve cells, repair damaged nerve tissue, and reduce inflammation in the brain. They can also secrete factors that promote the growth of blood vessels, which can help to increase blood flow to the brain.
Do studies and clinical trials support the use of these stem cells?
Several studies have investigated the use of Wharton’s jelly stem cells in treating cerebral palsy. In one study, children with cerebral palsy received intravenous infusions of Wharton’s jelly stem cells. The results showed improvements in motor function, muscle tone, and balance, as well as reductions in spasticity.
Another study investigated the use of Wharton’s jelly stem cells in combination with physical therapy for children with cerebral palsy. The results showed significant improvements in motor function and quality of life compared to children who received physical therapy alone.
Clinical trials have shown that the introduction of Wharton’s jelly stem cells can lead to significant improvements in motor function and cognitive abilities in children with cerebral palsy.
Wharton’s jelly stem cells help improve the symptoms of cerebral palsy by promoting the growth of new nerve cells, repairing damaged nerve tissue, and reducing inflammation in the brain.