by Shoot To Thrill Media | Oct 21, 2025 | Musculoskeletal Injury
Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified Physician
Last Updated: October 2025
What Do We Mean by “Musculoskeletal Injury”?
Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries affect the body’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
They may happen suddenly, like twisting an ankle, or develop gradually from repetitive strain or overuse.
Common Examples Include:
- Sprains and strains: ankle, knee, or back injuries
- Tendinopathies: tennis or golfer’s elbow, Achilles, or patellar tendon pain
- Rotator cuff irritation or partial tears
- Plantar fasciitis or iliotibial (IT) band syndrome
- Mild to moderate meniscus or labrum injuries
Because these tissues have limited blood flow, healing can be slow, and some injuries may recur after returning to activity.
How These Injuries Are Usually Treated
Traditional care focuses on pain control and gradual healing through rest and rehabilitation.
While many patients recover, symptoms sometimes return when normal activity resumes or healing is incomplete.
Common Conventional Options
- RICE protocol: rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Activity modification or temporary bracing
- Medications: short-term anti-inflammatories or pain relievers
- Physical therapy: mobility training, strengthening, and biomechanics correction
- Injections: local anesthetic or corticosteroid for temporary relief
- Surgery: generally reserved for full tears or severe structural damage
These methods can reduce pain but may not restore full tissue integrity or prevent future injury.
Regenerative Medicine Options for Musculoskeletal Injuries
Regenerative medicine aims to stimulate the body’s natural repair mechanisms, healing tissue instead of masking pain.
It’s increasingly used for chronic or hard-to-heal tendon, ligament, and joint injuries.
Common Regenerative Therapies
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP):
Concentrated platelets from your own blood deliver growth factors that reduce inflammation and accelerate repair.
- Umbilical Cord Tissue–Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (UCT-MSCs):
Young, active stem cells from screened, donated cord tissue that may help regenerate damaged structures and modulate inflammation.
- Prolotherapy:
A mild irritant solution injected into injured tissue to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and strengthen weakened connective tissue.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced pain and swelling
- Faster recovery compared to rest alone
- Improved strength, flexibility, and joint stability
- Lower risk of re-injury once healing is complete
Important:
PRP, UCT-MSC, and prolotherapy are investigational for orthopedic use in the U.S. and are not FDA-approved for musculoskeletal conditions.
However, multiple clinical studies show promising safety and functional improvements in patients with chronic joint or tendon injuries.
Recent Clinical Studies on Regenerative Medicine for Musculoskeletal Injuries
2025 – UC-MSC Exosomes for Knee Osteoarthritis
Title: Injection of Human Umbilical Cord MSC Exosomes for Knee Osteoarthritis: From Preclinical to Clinical Research
Journal: Journal of Translational Medicine – Full Text
Summary:
Patients receiving exosomes (cell-secreted vesicles) from UC-MSCs reported reduced joint inflammation, less pain, and improved function without adverse effects.
MRI scans suggested cartilage regeneration, confirming the therapy’s potential as a safe, novel regenerative option for osteoarthritis.
2025 – PRP vs. Steroid for Tennis Elbow
Title: Platelet-Rich Plasma Provides Superior Clinical Outcomes Without Radiologic Differences in Lateral Epicondylitis: Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal: PubMed – Full Text
Summary:
In this randomized study of 50 patients, PRP injections significantly outperformed steroids and placebo at 3 and 6 months for pain reduction and arm function.
PRP patients maintained improvement, while steroid effects faded by 6 months — confirming PRP’s longer-term benefit and safety for chronic tendon injury.
2025 – UC-MSC Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis
Title: Efficacy of a Single Dose of Cryopreserved UC-MSCs for Knee Osteoarthritis: Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Pilot Study
Journal: PubMed – Full Text
Summary:
Thirty patients with knee arthritis received either UC-MSCs or corticosteroid injections.
After 12 months, MSC-treated patients had significantly better pain, stiffness, and function scores, with no adverse reactions.
Researchers concluded that a single UC-MSC injection provided durable relief and superior quality-of-life improvement versus steroids.
Could This Be a Good Fit for You?
You may want to explore regenerative care if you:
- Have a persistent tendon or ligament injury that hasn’t healed with standard care
- Want to avoid or delay surgery (when appropriate)
- Are an active adult or athlete aiming to return safely to sport or work
- Prefer minimally invasive options with tailored rehabilitation plans
What to Expect
- Comprehensive evaluation (exam, imaging, and functional review)
- Personalized treatment plan (injection strategy + rehab protocol)
- Defined goals for pain relief, mobility, and performance
At Stemedix, our regenerative protocols combine biologic therapies with structured recovery programs to support lasting joint and tendon health.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Regenerative therapies such as PRP, UCT-MSC, and prolotherapy are not FDA-approved for orthopedic indications. Always consult a qualified physician to determine whether regenerative treatment is appropriate for your condition.
References
- Zhang W. et al. Injection of Human UC-MSC Exosomes for Knee Osteoarthritis. J Transl Med., 2025. Full Text
- Li C. et al. PRP Provides Superior Outcomes in Lateral Epicondylitis. PubMed., 2025. Full Text
- Martín-García M. et al. Cryopreserved UC-MSCs for Knee Osteoarthritis. PubMed., 2025. Full Text
by Shoot To Thrill Media | Oct 21, 2025 | Multiple Sclerosis
Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified Physician
Last Updated: October 2025
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS), primarily the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers. This leads to inflammation, scar formation, and disrupted communication between the brain and the rest of the body.
Over time, MS can cause varying degrees of disability, but each patient’s experience is unique.
Common Symptoms
- Muscle weakness or stiffness
- Balance or coordination problems
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Fatigue not improved by rest
- Vision changes (blurred or double vision)
- Cognitive difficulties (memory, focus)
- Bladder or bowel dysfunction
MS may appear in several forms, including Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) and Progressive MS, where symptoms worsen more steadily.
Current Medical Treatments
While there is no cure for MS, current therapies focus on slowing disease activity, reducing relapses, and improving quality of life.
Standard Treatment Categories
- Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs):
These drugs (such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, and newer monoclonal antibodies) can help decrease relapses and delay progression.
- Corticosteroids:
Often prescribed to shorten MS flare-ups by reducing inflammation.
- Symptom Management:
Targeted medications can address pain, spasticity, fatigue, or bladder dysfunction.
- Physical & Occupational Therapy:
Helps maintain mobility and function.
- Lifestyle & Supportive Care:
Balanced diet, exercise, and stress reduction play supportive roles.
These treatments primarily aim to manage the immune response and symptoms but do not reverse nerve or myelin damage.
Regenerative Medicine Research for MS
Regenerative medicine, including stem cell-based therapy, represents a growing area of research focused on repairing or restoring damaged neural tissue rather than only suppressing immune activity.
How Stem Cell Therapy Is Being Studied
Preclinical and clinical research suggests mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)—especially those derived from umbilical cord tissue (UCT)—may have several potential roles:
- Immune System Reset:
MSCs can modulate immune responses, potentially reducing the autoimmune attack on myelin.
- Myelin Repair Support:
MSCs release growth factors and exosomes that may promote remyelination and nerve protection.
- Neuroprotective Effects:
They may help protect nerve cells and reduce inflammation in the CNS microenvironment.
Important:
These treatments are still considered experimental and are not FDA-approved for Multiple Sclerosis. Ongoing research continues to evaluate safety, optimal dosing, and long-term effects.
Recent Human Studies
2024 – Phase I/II Clinical Study
Title: “Human Umbilical Cord-Derived MSCs in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Patients”
Journal: PubMed ID: 38450623
Summary:
33 patients with MS received one or two intrathecal (spinal) doses of UCT-MSCs. Both groups tolerated the therapy well. By 6 months, disability scores improved significantly, particularly in the two-dose group, which also showed enhanced hand dexterity, faster cognitive processing, and fewer MRI lesions. No serious adverse events were reported. Researchers concluded the approach was safe and warranted larger trials.
2020 – 10-Year Long-Term Safety Study
Title: “IV/IT hUC-MSCs Infusion in RRMS and NMO: A 10-Year Follow-Up Study”
Journal: Frontiers in Neurology
Link: Full Text
Summary:
In this decade-long study involving 10 participants, repeated MSC infusions remained safe and well tolerated. Most patients maintained stable disease activity without new lesions or relapses during the early years post-therapy. Researchers emphasized strong safety and called for expanded randomized trials.
2018 – Early Feasibility Study
Title: “Clinical Feasibility of Umbilical Cord Tissue-Derived MSCs in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis”
Journal: Journal of Translational Medicine
Link: Full Text
Summary:
20 MS patients received IV infusions of UCT-MSCs. Treatment caused only mild transient fatigue or headaches. Most participants showed symptom stabilization and improved mobility or bladder control at one year. MRI scans revealed no new brain lesions in 83% of patients. Authors concluded therapy was safe and merited larger controlled studies.
Is Regenerative Medicine Right for You?
If you have Multiple Sclerosis and are exploring new therapeutic options, stem cell-based regenerative medicine may offer an additional area to discuss with your care team.
Before considering such approaches, it’s suggested to:
- Consult a qualified regenerative medicine physician experienced in MS-related research.
- Review your medical history with your neurologist.
- Understand both potential benefits and limitations, as well as clinical trial opportunities.
At Stemedix, we follow evidence-informed, research-driven protocols and emphasize transparency, safety, and education. We provide consultations to help patients understand all available options, including ongoing clinical research.
Medical Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Stem cell and regenerative therapies for Multiple Sclerosis are not FDA-approved, and outcomes may vary.
Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.
References
- Petrou P. et al. Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. Front. Immunol., 2024. PubMed
- Wang L. et al. IV/IT hUC-MSCs Infusion in RRMS and NMO: A 10-Year Follow-Up Study. Front. Neurol., 2020. Full Text
- Riordan N. et al. Clinical Feasibility of Umbilical Cord Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. J. Transl. Med., 2018. Full Text
by Shoot To Thrill Media | Oct 21, 2025 | Men Wellness
Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified Physician
Last Updated: October 2025
Understanding Men’s Health and Hormone Balance
Men’s health and vitality rely on a delicate balance of hormones, circulation, and cellular function.
As testosterone levels naturally decline, often starting in the 30s, many men notice changes in energy, mood, strength, metabolism, and sexual performance.
Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance or Low Testosterone (Low T):
- Fatigue or decreased stamina
- Reduced libido or erectile difficulties
- Loss of muscle mass or strength
- Increased body fat, especially around the midsection
- Mood changes, anxiety, or brain fog
- Sleep disruption or poor recovery after exercise
Lifestyle, chronic stress, sleep patterns, and environmental toxins can all impact hormone production and metabolism.
Regenerative and hormone optimization therapies aim to restore balance naturally, improving both short-term function and long-term vitality.
Conventional Approaches to Men’s Health
Traditional medical care often focuses on treating symptoms or testosterone deficiency alone.
Common Options Include:
- Prescription testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): creams, injections, or pellets
- Medications for erectile dysfunction: sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis)
- Psychological counseling: for mood or stress-related contributors
- Lifestyle changes: nutrition, exercise, and sleep optimization
These treatments can be effective but may not fully address the root causes, such as vascular health, cellular energy, or hormone conversion imbalances (e.g., testosterone converting to estrogen).
Regenerative Medicine for Men’s Vitality
At Stemedix, regenerative medicine takes a restorative and preventive approach, helping men maintain peak health at every stage of life.
We focus on improving hormonal balance, cellular function, and overall vitality using evidence-supported biologic and metabolic therapies.
Therapies May Include:
- Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): Restores natural testosterone levels to support energy, focus, libido, and metabolism.
- Umbilical Cord Tissue–Derived Stem Cells (UCT-MSCs): Studied for their ability to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote tissue regeneration, particularly in vascular-related conditions.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Used for sexual wellness (such as penile rejuvenation therapy) and to enhance blood flow and tissue response.
- Peptide Therapies and IV Infusions: Support muscle recovery, fat metabolism, sleep quality, and immune resilience.
Important:
Stem cell and PRP-based therapies for sexual or hormone optimization are investigational and not FDA-approved.
Research continues to show encouraging outcomes in male sexual wellness, metabolic health, and hormone support.
Recent Clinical Research in Regenerative Men’s Health
2024 – MSC Therapy for Erectile Function and Hormonal Support
Title: Umbilical Cord-Derived MSC Therapy in Men with Erectile Dysfunction and Low Testosterone: Phase I/II Trial
Journal: Frontiers in Endocrinology – Full Text
Summary:
Men receiving two intracavernous UC-MSC injections experienced increased testosterone levels, improved erection hardness scores, and enhanced penile blood flow by ultrasound.
No major adverse effects were reported, suggesting UC-MSC therapy may improve both sexual function and hormonal balance.
2023 – Platelet-Rich Plasma for Erectile Function
Title: Platelet-Rich Plasma Improves Erectile Function: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Journal: Urology – PubMed
Summary:
Sixty men with mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction received two PRP injections one month apart.
At 6 months, 69% reported meaningful improvement in erectile function scores, compared with 27% in the placebo group.
The study concluded PRP is a safe, minimally invasive option for men seeking natural improvement in erectile function.
2022 – Testosterone and Aging Meta-Analysis
Title: Benefits and Safety of Testosterone Therapy in Aging Men: Updated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Journal: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism – Full Text
Summary:
Across 35 studies, testosterone replacement led to improved lean muscle mass, bone density, libido, and mood without major safety concerns when monitored appropriately.
Researchers emphasized individualized therapy and consistent follow-up to optimize results and minimize risks.
Is Hormone or Regenerative Therapy Right for You?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have symptoms of low testosterone or hormonal imbalance
- Experience fatigue, low motivation, or cognitive decline
- Want to improve sexual wellness, energy, or muscle recovery
- Prefer a personalized, non-surgical approach that combines regenerative and metabolic optimization
At Stemedix, our goal is to restore function, vitality, and confidence naturally.
We begin with comprehensive lab testing, body composition analysis, and lifestyle review to tailor your treatment plan and track progress over time.
Medical Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Stem cell, PRP, and hormone optimization therapies are not FDA-approved for anti-aging or sexual enhancement, and individual results may vary.
Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before beginning treatment.
References
- Khalifeh A. et al. Allogeneic Wharton’s Jelly-Derived MSC Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction. Front Endocrinol., 2024. PubMed
- Pachis K. et al. Platelet-Rich Plasma Improves Erectile Function: A Randomized Trial. Urology., 2023. PubMed
- Snyder P. et al. Testosterone Therapy in Aging Men: Updated Meta-Analysis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab., 2022. Full Text
by Shoot To Thrill Media | Oct 21, 2025 | COPD
Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified Physician
Last Updated: October 2025
What Is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term condition that causes progressive breathing difficulty. It develops when inflammation, excess mucus, and airway narrowing make it harder for air to move in and out of the lungs.
COPD is an umbrella term that includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases, severe asthma.
Over time, these issues damage lung tissue and reduce the body’s ability to deliver oxygen efficiently.
What Causes COPD?
Common contributing factors include:
- Smoking: the #1 cause of COPD worldwide.
- Air pollution or workplace exposure: long-term inhalation of dust, fumes, or chemicals.
- Genetic factors: a rare inherited condition called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency can predispose some individuals.
How COPD Affects the Lungs
- Emphysema: Damages the tiny air sacs (alveoli) that exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- Chronic Bronchitis: Inflames and narrows the airways, causing chronic cough and mucus build-up.
- Severe Asthma: Long-term airway inflammation can lead to permanent structural changes similar to COPD.
The result is reduced airflow, shortness of breath, and fatigue during even simple activities.
Current Treatments for COPD
There is no cure for COPD, but medical care can slow its progression and ease symptoms.
Standard Treatment Options
- Bronchodilators: help open airways and make breathing easier.
- Steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs: reduce swelling inside the lungs.
- Oxygen therapy: maintains healthy oxygen levels in the blood.
- Lifestyle changes: quitting smoking, balanced nutrition, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
These approaches focus on managing symptoms but cannot reverse existing lung damage.
Regenerative Medicine and COPD: What’s the Potential?
Regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy, is being studied for its ability to support the lungs’ own healing processes.
Early clinical research suggests stem cell-based approaches may:
- Reduce lung inflammation that drives flare-ups.
- Support repair of damaged airways and alveoli.
- Encourage new, healthy cell growth.
- Help regulate immune activity to limit future damage.
How It Works in Clinical Research
- Cell Collection: Stem cells are sourced from the patient (bone marrow or blood) or donated umbilical cord tissue.
- Processing: Cells are carefully prepared to enhance their healing signals.
- Infusion: Stem cells are delivered back to the body via IV, where they migrate to injured lung areas.
Important:
Stem cell therapies for COPD are experimental and not FDA-approved.
Current studies focus on safety, tolerability, and functional benefits such as exercise capacity and quality of life.
Promising Clinical Studies in Regenerative Medicine for COPD
2024 – Autologous P63⁺ Lung Progenitor Cells Trial
Title: Autologous Transplantation of P63⁺ Lung Progenitor Cells for COPD Therapy
Journal: Stem Cell Research & Therapy – PubMed Link
Summary:
A Phase I trial in China treated 17 COPD patients with their own lung stem/progenitor cells.
After 24 weeks, participants had improved lung function, better oxygen exchange, and greater exercise capacity (30-meter gain in 6-minute walk).
Two patients showed signs of tissue repair on CT scans. No serious side effects occurred, confirming good tolerability.
2022 – Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of COPD Cell Therapies
Title: Stem Cell-Based Regenerative Therapy and Derived Products in COPD
Journal: Cells (MDPI) – Full Text
Summary:
Researchers pooled data from multiple COPD cell therapy trials. Treated patients walked ~50 meters farther on 6-minute tests and showed a trend toward better lung capacity (FEV₁).
While not a cure, the review found meaningful improvements in stamina and symptom control, supporting further study of MSC-based approaches.
2020 – Umbilical Cord MSC Pilot Study
Title: Allogeneic Umbilical Cord-Derived MSC Transplantation for Treating COPD: A Pilot Clinical Study
Journal: Stem Cell Research & Therapy – Full Text
Summary:
Twenty COPD patients received umbilical cord-derived MSC infusions. Treatment was safe and well tolerated, leading to less breathlessness, fewer flare-ups, and improved quality of life.
Researchers concluded that stem cell therapy may help reduce inflammation and stabilize symptoms in moderate to severe COPD.
Is Regenerative Therapy Right for You?
If you have COPD and want to learn about emerging therapies, consider these steps:
- Consult your pulmonologist and a qualified regenerative medicine specialist.
- Review ongoing clinical trials and their eligibility criteria.
- Continue standard care while exploring supplemental research-based options.
At Stemedix, our focus is education, safety, and scientific transparency. We help patients understand how regenerative medicine research might fit into a personalized plan for lung health and quality of life.
Medical Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Stem cell and exosome therapies for COPD are not FDA-approved, and outcomes may vary.
Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before considering any medical procedure or clinical trial participation.
References
- Shi Y. et al. Autologous Transplantation of P63⁺ Lung Progenitor Cells for COPD Therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther., 2024. PubMed
- Zhang H. et al. Stem Cell-Based Regenerative Therapy and Derived Products in COPD. Cells (MDPI), 2022. Full Text
Gu W. et al. Allogeneic Umbilical Cord-Derived MSC Transplantation for COPD.Stem Cell Res Ther., 2020. Full Text
by Shoot To Thrill Media | Oct 21, 2025 | Ankylosing Spondylitis
Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified Physician
Last Updated: October 2025
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, which connect the spine to the hips.
It often begins with stiffness or pain in the lower back — especially noticeable in the morning or after sitting for long periods — and tends to improve with movement or stretching.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent low back or hip pain
- Morning stiffness that eases with activity
- Heel pain or tendon inflammation
- Occasional eye inflammation (uveitis)
- Fatigue during active flare-ups
Over time, chronic inflammation can reduce spinal flexibility, but with the right management, most people live active, fulfilling lives.
Diagnosis typically includes symptom review, X-rays or MRI imaging, and sometimes blood tests such as HLA-B27.
Current Treatment Options
Conventional treatment aims to reduce inflammation, control pain, and maintain mobility.
Standard Therapies Include
- Medications: NSAIDs, biologic agents (e.g., TNF or IL-17 inhibitors), and corticosteroids for flares
- Physical therapy and exercise: To preserve posture, flexibility, and lung capacity
- Lifestyle strategies: Healthy weight, adequate sleep, stress control, and smoking cessation
- Surgical correction: In rare, advanced cases when deformity or joint damage limit’s function
These interventions help slow disease progression but do not address the cellular or immune dysregulation driving AS.
How Regenerative Medicine May Help
Regenerative medicine explores how to support the body’s natural repair mechanisms and restore immune balance.
Among the most studied options are umbilical cord tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCT-MSCs) — special cells collected from donated umbilical cord tissue after healthy births.
In Research, UCT-MSCs Have Been Observed to:
- Help regulate an overactive immune response
- Reduce inflammation that contributes to joint and spinal stiffness
- Promote tissue repair and support balanced immune function
In clinical trials, UCT-MSCs are typically given by intravenous (IV) infusion.
Participants generally tolerate the procedure well.
⚠️ Important:
Stem cell therapy for ankylosing spondylitis is still investigational and not FDA-approved.
Ongoing studies are evaluating its safety, long-term outcomes, and potential as a complement to standard care.
Recent Clinical Studies on Regenerative Therapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis
2025 – Review of Innovative Cell Therapies in AS
Title: Breaking Boundaries in Ankylosing Spondylitis: How Innovative Cell Therapies Reshape Immunity
Journal: Frontiers in Immunology – Full Text
Summary:
This 2025 expert review highlighted mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies as a promising frontier for AS. UC-MSCs demonstrate strong anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, addressing both the symptoms and underlying immune imbalance.
Authors concluded MSC-based therapy represents a cutting-edge approach that could improve outcomes beyond current medications.
2025 – Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Autoimmune Diseases
Title: Efficacy and Safety of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Transplantation in Autoimmune and Rheumatic Immune Diseases
Journal: Stem Cell Research & Therapy – Full Text
Summary:
A 2025 meta-analysis reviewed randomized trials across autoimmune disorders, including AS.
In one RCT, six months of UC-MSC infusions led to greater symptom relief than infliximab alone. Patients had lower inflammation markers (ESR, TNF-α) and improved mobility.
No serious adverse events occurred, supporting both safety and clinical potential.
2023 – MSC-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Axial Spondyloarthritis
Title: Biology and Therapeutic Potential of MSC Extracellular Vesicles in Axial Spondyloarthritis
Journal: Communications Biology (Nature Publishing Group) – Full Text
Summary:
This 2023 report discussed MSC-derived exosomes as cell-free therapies with potent immune-modulating effects.
MSC treatment for six months correlated with lower ESR, reduced cell adhesion molecules, and diminished TNF-α levels, leading to improved patient comfort and flexibility.
2022 – Systematic Review of MSCs in Autoimmune Diseases
Title: Efficacy and Safety of MSC Transplantation in Autoimmune Diseases (Including AS)
Journal: Frontiers in Immunology / PubMed Central – Full Text
Summary:
This 2022 review analyzed multiple autoimmune conditions.
For AS patients, MSC therapy resulted in lower disease activity scores, less pain, and better mobility over six months.
Inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α decreased, while safety remained excellent, no serious adverse reactions reported.
Is This Approach Right for You?
If you continue to experience back pain or stiffness despite standard care, or simply want to explore emerging evidence-based options, regenerative medicine may be worth discussing with your physician.
Before considering therapy:
- Review your medical history, current medications, and inflammatory markers
- Consult a board-certified regenerative medicine specialist
- Understand the experimental nature of stem cell treatments
- Maintain traditional therapy unless advised otherwise by your doctor
At Stemedix, our focus is transparency, safety, and education. Our team provides individualized consultations to help patients understand how regenerative medicine may fit within a comprehensive approach to AS care.
Medical Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Stem cell and exosome-based therapies for ankylosing spondylitis are not FDA-approved, and outcomes may vary.
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or modifying any treatment.
References
- Zhao Y. et al. Breaking Boundaries in Ankylosing Spondylitis. Front. Immunol., 2025. Full Text
- Chen L. et al. Efficacy and Safety of MSC Transplantation in Autoimmune and Rheumatic Diseases. Stem Cell Res Ther., 2025. Full Text
- Patel D. et al. Therapeutic Potential of MSC Extracellular Vesicles in Axial Spondyloarthritis. Commun. Biol., 2023. Full Text
- Wang X. et al. MSC Transplantation in Autoimmune Diseases (Including AS): A Systematic Review. Front. Immunol., 2022. Full Text
Interested in learning more? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Search our blog page to learn more: https://stemedix.com/blog/