Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that affects the brain and spinal cord by damaging myelin, the protective coating surrounding nerve fibers. Over time, this damage can interfere with communication between the brain and body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness, balance problems, and difficulty walking. Many patients eventually progress into a more advanced stage known as secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), where symptoms gradually worsen and disability becomes more pronounced.
Because progressive forms of MS can be difficult to treat, researchers have increasingly explored regenerative medicine approaches that may help support immune regulation, tissue repair, and neurological function. One area receiving growing attention involves mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), particularly those derived from placental tissue. In this recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports, researchers evaluated the safety and potential therapeutic effects of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PL-MSCs) in patients with SPMS.
Why Researchers Are Studying Mesenchymal Stem Cells for MS
Mesenchymal stem cells have become an important focus in regenerative medicine because of their ability to interact with the immune system and release signaling molecules involved in healing and tissue support. Researchers believe MSCs may help regulate inflammatory activity while also creating a more supportive environment for nerve cells and damaged tissues.
Placenta-derived MSCs are particularly attractive for research because they can be collected noninvasively from donated placental tissue following healthy births. These cells also demonstrate strong growth potential, anti-inflammatory properties, and low immunogenicity, meaning they are less likely to trigger unwanted immune reactions after administration.
Study Overview
In this Phase 1 clinical trial, researchers investigated whether placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy could be safely administered to patients with secondary progressive MS. Five participants with SPMS received PL-MSC therapy and were monitored over a six-month period.
The primary goal of the study was to evaluate safety and tolerability. Researchers also explored potential clinical effects by tracking neurological assessments, physical function, and disability-related measurements throughout the follow-up period.
Key Findings from the Study
One of the most important findings from the study was that placenta-derived MSC therapy demonstrated a favorable safety profile. Researchers reported that treatment was generally well tolerated, with no major safety concerns identified during the study period.
In addition to safety observations, researchers noted encouraging clinical trends in several participants. Some patients experienced stabilization in neurological symptoms and disability measures, while others showed signs of functional improvement during follow-up evaluations. Although the study was small and primarily designed to assess safety, the findings suggest that PL-MSC therapy may offer supportive neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects in progressive MS.
Researchers also discussed how MSCs may help regulate inflammatory signaling pathways associated with MS progression. Chronic inflammation within the nervous system plays a major role in the development of neurological damage in MS, and MSCs appear capable of influencing several biological pathways involved in inflammation, immune activity, and tissue repair simultaneously.
How Mesenchymal Stem Cells May Support Neurological Health
Unlike therapies designed to target only a single pathway, mesenchymal stem cells appear to work through multiple mechanisms at once. Researchers believe MSCs may help:
- Regulate inflammatory immune responses
- Reduce harmful cytokine activity
- Support neuronal survival
- Promote repair-related signaling
- Create a more regenerative environment within damaged tissues
Scientists also continue studying the signaling molecules and extracellular vesicles released by MSCs, which may contribute to communication between cells and support healing processes within the nervous system. These regenerative and immunomodulatory properties are a major reason MSC therapy continues to attract significant interest in neurological research.
A Growing Area of Regenerative Medicine Research
Although larger clinical trials are still needed, this study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the investigation of mesenchymal stem cells in autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. The findings highlight the potential of placenta-derived MSC therapy as a promising area of regenerative medicine research for patients living with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis.
As researchers continue learning more about how MSCs interact with inflammation, immune regulation, and tissue repair pathways, regenerative medicine may play an increasingly important role in the future of neurological disease research and supportive care.
Source
Shokati A, Nikbakht M, Sahraian MA, Saeedi R, Asadollahzadeh E, Rezaeimanesh N, et al. Cell therapy with placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis patients in a phase 1 clinical trial. Sci Rep. 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-00590-6. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-00590-6