Stem Cell Therapy: A Groundbreaking Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

Stem cells are shaking up the regenerative medicine landscape, opening up new possibilities for difficult-to-treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). The powerful cells have the ability to expand into differentiated cells. Researchers have looked into the potential of stem cells extracted from adults. In particular, these cells can be derived from adipose (fat) or bone marrow, creating what’s known as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Another adult stem cell source is from screened donated umbilical cord tissue (wharton’s jelly). Stem cells have been researched and gaining interest as a potential cell replacement therapy for neurodegenerative conditions.

Stem Cell Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

PD occurs when the brain loses dopaminergic neurons, thus resulting in a decline in dopamine levels. Dopamine is a critical messenger which plays an important role in the control of movement and certain types of thinking. When levels drop in PD, patients experience issues such as problems with movement, sleep disorders, and depression, among other symptoms.

In the late 1980s, researchers tested the use of fetal material in PD patients, which produced some long-term benefits. Yet, considerable issues arose, such as a lack of quality control for the transplanted material and dyskinesia in some patients.

Today, mesenchymal stem cells offer a better alternative and non-controversial source. Experts in regenerative medicine, particularly surrounding stem cell technology, are discovering advancements in possibly treating a broad range of neurological conditions.

Mesenchymal stem cells have the homing ability to injured areas of the brain, produce neuroprotective factors such as cytokines and enzymes, and regulate the function of immune cells. MSCs also secrete exosomes that have become more popular in today’s regenerative medicine research. This biological output has the ability to repair damaged tissues, inhibit inflammation, and promote cell differentiation and migration.

Research continues on the effects of mesenchymal stem cells for neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. Initial studies have shown stem cell therapy as a therapeutic and safe treatment for patients seeking an alternative option for symptom improvement and reduction in disease progression rate. Results from ongoing and future trials will only shed more light on the treatment’s potential.

This post was written by Becky Palmer, a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine, also known as Stem Cell Therapy in Tampa. Regenerative medicine seeks to replace tissue or organs that have been damaged by disease, trauma, or congenital issues.