by admin | May 10, 2023 | Stem Cell Therapy, Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Multiple Sclerosis, Stem Cell Research
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that occurs as a result of the body’s immune system attacking the protective sheath, or myelin, responsible for covering nerve fibers. Characterized by progressive nerve deterioration and damage of the nerve fibers, MS is currently estimated to affect nearly 600,000 adults in the United States.
While a specific cause of MS has not yet been determined, recent findings have suggested interactions between environmental and genetic factors as contributors to the susceptibility to MS.
Current pharmaceutical treatments for MS have demonstrated the ability to slow symptoms associated with MS but have not demonstrated the ability to treat or prevent the disease itself.
Recent studies have identified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as having anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially be an effective therapy option for preventing or managing overactivity and self-antigen attacks by T cells and macrophages that are commonly associated with MS.
As part of this review, Alanazi et al. examined the most relevant clinical trials that utilized MSCs from a variety of sources as part of their investigation into the effectiveness of these stem cells as a potential therapy for MS.
MSCs are able to be easily isolated from multiple sources of the human body, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord, and the placenta. These stem cells have also demonstrated the ability to be expanded in culture media and to be safely utilized as autologous treatment without the risk of rejection.
Regardless of their source, MSCs, in general, have been demonstrated to be highly proliferative, capable of self-renewal, and have immunomodulatory and neurodegenerative effects. In addition, MSCs demonstrate the ability to differentiate and secrete anti-inflammatory factors that allow them to control the progress of autoimmune diseases, including MS.
After examining numerous clinical trials utilizing MSCs from a range of sources, the authors conclude that MSCs – regardless of their source – will all work on inhibiting CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation, T regulatory cells (Tregs), and macrophage switch into the auto-immune phenotype.
While there are many good sources of MSCs, Alanazi et al. also conclude that previously conducted clinical trials demonstrate umbilical cord MSCs (UCMSCs) to be the best option for the management of Multiple Sclerosis for several reasons. These reasons include faster self-renewal than other MSCs, the ability to differentiate into three germ layers, and the observed ability to accumulate in damaged tissue or inflamed areas.
Additionally, and besides being one of the few MSC sources without ethical concerns, UCMSCs offer benefits from a practical standpoint The separation of MSCs from the umbilical cord is easy and painless, the number of cells collected per unit is high, UCMSC transfusion is not expensive, and UCMSCs have been shown to be very safe to use in this application.
Considering the information presented in this review, Alanazi et al. recommend the clinical use of UCMSCs for regenerative medicine and immunotherapy.
Source: “Mesenchymal stem cell therapy: A review of clinical trials for multiple ….” 23 Aug. 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36092509/.
by Stemedix | May 8, 2023 | Stem Cell Therapy, Regenerative Medicine
Stem cell therapy is a type of regenerative medicine that involves using stem cells to promote the repair, regeneration, or replacement of damaged or diseased cells, tissues, or organs in the body. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to develop into many different types of cells, such as muscle, bone, or cartilage cells, depending on the signals they receive in the body. In this article, we will discuss everything stem cell therapy including, the Stem Cell Therapy cost in 2023!
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of adult stem cell that can be found in various tissues in the body, including bone marrow, adipose tissue (fat), and umbilical cord tissue. These cells have the ability to differentiate into many different types of cells, including bone, cartilage, muscle, and fat cells.
In addition to their differentiation potential, MSCs have been found to possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which make them an attractive candidate for use in regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies.
Stem cell therapy has shown promise in treating a wide range of conditions, including degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, and various types of injuries and tissue damage. The therapy works by promoting the body’s natural healing processes and replacing or repairing damaged cells, tissues, or organs with new, healthy cells.
Why Do Patients Explore the Option of Stem Cell Therapy?
Patients may explore stem cell therapy for a variety of reasons, depending on their individual circumstances and medical needs. Here are some of the common reasons why patients may explore stem cell therapy:
- Treatment of chronic conditions: Stem cell therapy may hold promise for treating a wide range of chronic conditions, including neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, and various types of injuries and tissue damage.
- Pain relief: Stem cell therapy may help to alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and joint pain. By promoting tissue regeneration and repair, stem cell therapy can help to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
- Avoidance of surgery: For some patients, stem cell therapy may offer an alternative to surgery for conditions such as joint injuries or degenerative conditions. Stem cell therapy may be less invasive and have a shorter recovery time than surgical interventions.
- Improvement in quality of life: Patients who are experiencing limitations in their mobility or other activities of daily living due to chronic conditions may explore stem cell therapy as a way to improve their quality of life and overall well-being.
It’s important to note that while stem cell therapy holds promise, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of stem cell therapy for your specific condition.
How Much Does Stem Cell Therapy Cost?
Patients seeking relief from their conditions are exploring what regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, may offer but also how much these therapies are. It is important to be sure you are receiving a quality option for the health investment.
Most insurances will not cover treatments deemed alternative, including regenerative medicine, so these therapies are considered out of pocket. Stem cell therapy in the United States varies depending on the clinic, the location, and the physician performing the procedure. Since the treatment types and requirements vary widely, the cost can, too.
On average, adult Stem Cell therapy cost in 2023 in the U.S. range from $5,000 to $15,000.
Some clinics will offer financing options and others may also include travel accommodations for those having to travel.
How Do You Find a Quality Provider for Stem Cell Therapy?
When it comes to stem cell treatment, it’s important to ensure that you’re receiving quality care to maximize the potential benefits and minimize the risks. Here are some things to look for to ensure you’re getting quality stem cell treatment:
Credentials of the provider: Make sure that the provider administering the stem cell therapy is licensed and certified in their respective field. You can verify this by checking their credentials with the appropriate regulatory body.
Treatment protocols: The clinic should have established protocols for administering stem cell therapy that comply with industry standards and regulations. They should be able to provide you with detailed information on the treatment process, including the source and type of stem cells used.
Clinical experience: Choose a clinic with a track record of success and experience in administering stem cell therapy. You can ask for patient testimonials or case studies to verify their claims.
Safety measures: Stem cell therapy should be conducted in a sterile and safe environment to minimize the risk of infection or other complications. The clinic should follow strict safety protocols, including the use of sterile equipment and a clean treatment area.
Follow-up process: Quality stem cell therapy should include ongoing care and follow-up to monitor your progress and ensure that you’re getting the most benefit from the treatment. The clinic should have a follow-up plan in place to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
It’s important to do your research and ask questions before committing to stem cell therapy. You can also consult with your healthcare provider to get their input and recommendations. Some patients are exploring options of stem cell therapies internationally. Traveling internationally for the treatment will include costs of flights, hotels, and overall travel expenses on top of the cost of treatment. But patients should consider differences in regulations, quality control, and medical practices. For example:
- Lack of regulatory oversight: Different countries may have varying regulations for stem cell therapy, and some may have less strict oversight than others. This can make it difficult for patients to know if the treatments they receive overseas are safe and effective.
- Quality control issues: Stem cell therapies may vary in quality depending on the facility where they are administered, the source of the cells, and the methods used to prepare and administer the cells. Overseas facilities may not have the same quality control standards as those in the patient’s home country.
- Safety concerns: Stem cell therapies carry the risk of infection, immune reactions, and other complications, particularly if the cells are not prepared or administered correctly. Patients who receive stem cell therapy overseas may be at greater risk of complications if the facility is not properly equipped to manage potential adverse events.
- Difficulty accessing follow-up care: Patients who receive stem cell therapy overseas may have difficulty accessing follow-up care or medical attention if complications arise after they return home.
The Stem Cell Therapy cost in 2023 may be expensive, but well-informed patients who undergo the treatment often find the benefits prove to be worth their investment, especially in cases where they no longer require ongoing prescriptions and pain medications. Talk to a qualifying provider to see if this alternative medicine may provide you with the opportunity for a better quality of life you are seeking.
by admin | May 3, 2023 | Stem Cell Therapy, COPD, Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Stem Cell Research, Umbilical Stem Cell
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an incurable and debilitating disease characterized by chronic and progressive inflammation that leads to small airway obstruction and emphysema.
According to the World Health Organization, COPD is the third leading cause of death and is responsible for an estimated 3.2 million deaths each year. Between 80 and 90% of all COPD cases are caused by exposure to cigarette smoke, meaning it is also one of the most preventable diseases.
In addition to the increased risk of death, COPD significantly affects the overall quality of life and is often associated with difficulty breathing, chronic cough, lack of energy, lung infections, lung cancer, and heart disease.
A number of stem-cell-based approaches to address this issue are currently being explored. In this study, Ridzuan et al. uses an animal model to assess the potential anti-inflammatory effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cases of COPD.
EVs are small membrane vesicles of multivesicular bodies that are released by a variety of cells, including MSCs. Studies have demonstrated EVs isolated from MSCs mimic the therapeutic effects of MSCs.
Over the course of this study, and to mimic the symptoms observed with COPD, rats were exposed to cigarette smoke for up to 12 weeks, followed by transplantation of hUC-MSCs or application of hUC-MSC-derived EVs.
At the conclusion of this study, Ridzuan et al. found that both the transplantation of hUC-MSCs and the application of hUC-MSC-derived EVs reduced peribronchial and perivascular inflammation, slowed alveolar septal thickening, and decreased the number of goblet cells. Both applications also improved the loss of alveolar septa in the lung of COPD rats and regulated multiple pathways commonly associated with COPD.
Ridzuan et al. conclude that hUC-MSC-derived EVs effectively reduce COPD-induced inflammation and could have the potential to be a therapy for the management of COPD.
The authors also concluded that the selected treatment methods decreased the above-described symptoms at comparable rates. While there are still limited data demonstrating the regenerative and the anti-inflammatory effects of MSC-EVs to mitigate the inflammation in COPD, further study is needed to fully understand the anti-inflammatory effects of MSC-EVs and to better understand the specific mechanisms of action of all contents of MSC-EVs as they relate to the potential future treatment of COPD.
Source: “Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular ….” 12 Jan. 2021, https://stemcellres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13287-020-02088-6.
by Stemedix | May 1, 2023 | Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, while dementia is a term used to describe a decline in cognitive function that can impact a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Does Parkinson’s cause Dementia? While the two conditions are distinct, there is a strong link between Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
What Causes Degeneration of Neurons in The Brain?
There are many factors that can contribute to the degeneration of neurons in the brain, and the specific causes can vary depending on the type of degenerative disease or disorder. Here are some examples of factors that can contribute to neuron degeneration:
Genetics: Inherited genetic mutations can lead to the production of abnormal proteins or other cellular changes that can cause neurons to degenerate.
Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins, such as pesticides or heavy metals, can damage neurons and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
Aging: As we age, our cells become less efficient at repairing damage, and this can lead to the accumulation of damaged proteins and other cellular changes that can contribute to neuron degeneration.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the brain can damage neurons and contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Trauma: Traumatic brain injuries can cause physical damage to neurons and lead to neurodegeneration.
Other medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune diseases, can increase the risk of neuron degeneration.
It is often a combination of these factors, rather than a single cause, that may be the contributors to neuron degeneration in Parkinson’s Disease.
Research suggests that up to 80% of people with Parkinson’s disease will experience some cognitive decline over the course of their illness, with about 50% developing dementia at some point in their lives. This type of dementia is known as Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD).
What is Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD)
Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) is a type of dementia that affects some people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The symptoms of PDD can include memory loss, difficulty with planning and problem-solving, and changes in mood and behavior. PDD typically develops several years after the onset of PD, and the severity of cognitive impairment can vary widely from person to person.
In addition to cognitive changes, people with PDD may also experience motor symptoms associated with PD, such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movements. Behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, hallucinations, and delusions, are also common in PDD.
How Does PDD Develop?
The exact cause of PDD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the degeneration of neurons in specific areas of the brain that are affected by both PD and dementia. It is also believed to be a result from the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, including alpha-synuclein, which is also involved in the development of Parkinson’s disease.
It is important to note that not everyone with Parkinson’s disease will develop PDD, and there are treatments available to help manage both conditions. People with Parkinson’s disease who are concerned about cognitive decline should speak with their healthcare provider for guidance on how to monitor and manage their symptoms.
What Are Treatment Options For PDD?
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD), there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms of the disease and improve quality of life for people with PDD. Here are some ways that PDD can be managed:
Medications: There are several medications that can be used to manage the symptoms of PDD, including medications to manage the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, as well as medications to manage cognitive and behavioral symptoms.
Cognitive and behavioral therapy: Therapy sessions with a trained healthcare professional can help people with PDD and their caregivers learn strategies for managing cognitive and behavioral symptoms, such as memory loss, depression, and anxiety.
Exercise: Exercise has been shown to be beneficial for people with Parkinson’s disease, and it may also help improve cognitive function and mood in people with PDD.
Support groups: Joining a support group can help people with PDD and their caregivers connect with others who are facing similar challenges and provide emotional support and practical advice.
Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress can all help improve overall health and may help manage symptoms of PDD.
It is important for people with PDD and their caregivers to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific symptoms and needs.
Regenerative Medicine for Parkinson’s Disease Dementia
Another option that is outside of traditional medicine that patients are exploring is regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy. This therapy involves the use of stem cells to repair or replace damaged or diseased tissues in the body. Stem cells are unique because they have the ability to differentiate, or transform, into different types of cells, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, or blood cells. This makes them a potentially useful tool for repairing damaged tissues or replacing lost or damaged cells in the body.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being investigated for their potential use in a variety of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are derived from adult tissues isolated from the patient’s own tissue (autologous) or from a donor (allogeneic).
While research continues regarding the use of MSCs for the management of neurological conditions, there has been some evidence to suggest that it may have potential as a therapeutic option. Studies have shown that MSCs can migrate to damaged areas of the brain and release neurotrophic factors, which can promote the growth and survival of neurons.
MSCs may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation in the brain that is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as PDD. They have the ability to modulate the immune response and produce a variety of growth factors and other signaling molecules that can help promote tissue repair and regeneration.
If you are looking into options for yourself or a loved one, talk to your healthcare provider about which options are best for the management of your condition. When options are limited or not showing improvement, regenerative medicine may be an option worth exploring. When looking for a provider in this industry is important to have the elements of experience, transparency, and quality control.
by Stemedix | Apr 24, 2023 | COPD
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe. It is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, as well as damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. In this article, we will discuss how to test yourself for COPD.
The two main types of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is a condition in which the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes inflamed, leading to a chronic cough and increased mucus production. Emphysema is a condition in which the walls of the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, reducing the amount of oxygen that can be exchanged between the lungs and the blood.
COPD is most commonly caused by long-term exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust. Other risk factors include a history of respiratory infections, genetics, and age.
The signs and symptoms of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) can develop gradually over time and may not be noticeable at first. Some common early signs of COPD may include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Chronic cough, often producing sputum (a mixture of saliva and mucus)
- Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Frequent respiratory infections, such as colds or flu
- Difficulty catching your breath or feeling out of breath during everyday activities.
How Can I Test Myself For COPD?
There are different ways to test yourself for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Some tests that you can do at home to assess your symptoms and determine if you need to seek medical attention are:
COPD Assessment Test (CAT): This is a simple questionnaire that assesses your symptoms related to COPD, such as coughing, shortness of breath, and sputum production. The higher the score, the more severe your symptoms may be.
Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale: This scale measures your level of breathlessness during daily activities. It ranges from 0 (no breathlessness) to 4 (breathlessness even while at rest).
Spirometry: This is a lung function test that measures how much air you can breathe in and out and how quickly you can do it. This test can be done at a healthcare provider’s office, but there are also some portable spirometry devices that can be used at home.
It’s important to note that while these tests can help you assess your symptoms, they cannot provide a definitive diagnosis of COPD. Proper diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare professional after performing a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination, lung function tests, and medical history review.
If you have any concerns about your breathing and you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms, particularly if you are a current or former smoker or have a history of exposure to lung irritants, you should speak to your healthcare provider.
What Treatments Are There for COPD?
Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of COPD and improve quality of life. There are several treatments available to manage COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and improve symptoms. The treatment plan for COPD may vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors, such as age, overall health, and lifestyle. Here are some common treatments for COPD:
Medications: Medications are used to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation in the airways, and prevent flare-ups. Some medications used to treat COPD include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that includes exercise, breathing techniques, education, and counseling. It can improve lung function, reduce shortness of breath, and improve quality of life.
Oxygen Therapy: Oxygen therapy involves the use of supplemental oxygen to improve oxygen levels in the blood. It can be used during physical activity or continuously throughout the day and night.
Surgery: In severe cases of COPD, surgery may be recommended to remove damaged lung tissue or to transplant healthy lungs.
Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of COPD.
It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan for COPD. Treatment may need to be adjusted over time as the condition progresses.
Can You Manage COPD Naturally?
While there is no cure for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), natural remedies and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with COPD. However, it is important to note that these natural remedies may not replace medical treatment and may also need to be used in conjunction with medical therapy.
Here are some natural ways to manage COPD:
Quit Smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, and quitting smoking is the most important step in managing the condition. It can slow down the progression of the disease and improve lung function.
Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve lung function, reduce shortness of breath, and increase endurance. There are also breathing exercises patients can do. Consult your healthcare provider for a safe exercise plan.
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can make breathing more difficult and put extra pressure on the lungs. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve breathing and reduce the risk of other health problems.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help thin out mucus in the airways and make it easier to cough up.
Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help support the immune system and provide essential nutrients needed for overall health.
Avoid triggers: Avoiding triggers such as air pollution, secondhand smoke, and allergens can help reduce symptoms.
Manage stress: Stress can worsen COPD symptoms. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help reduce stress and improve breathing.
It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan or
Can Regenerative Medicine Help COPD?
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, is a field of medicine that focuses on using the body’s own cells and tissues to promote healing and regeneration. One potential approach in regenerative medicine for COPD involves the use of mesenchymal stem cells, which have the ability to differentiate into different types of cells in the body.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of adult stem cell that has the potential to differentiate into different types of cells, including lung cells. MSCs also have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which make them a potential candidate for the treatment of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
Research has shown that MSCs can promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve lung function and that they can differentiate into lung cells and help repair damaged lung tissue. Additionally, MSCs can secrete a variety of growth factors and cytokines that can promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
Researchers continue to study the use of stem cells to regenerate damaged lung tissue and promote healing in the lungs. Several clinical trials have been conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy for COPD and have shown promising results in improving lung function and quality of life in people with COPD.
With this new emerging alternative therapy now available for patients to explore, it is important to note that regenerative medicine is not a replacement for standard medical treatment for COPD and can be another management option for patients to do in conjunction with.
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