Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases

What was studied

This is not a single clinical trial, but a peer-reviewed scientific review article. The authors analyzed preclinical and early clinical studies on the use of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in neurodegenerative diseases—ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple system atrophy.

Particular attention was paid to how MSCs might potentially affect the nervous system. The review examines three key mechanisms: the release of growth factors/neurotrophic factors, the secretion of exosomes and other extracellular vesicles, and the reduction and modulation of neuroinflammation. The authors emphasize the need for further rigorous controlled studies to confirm clinical efficacy and safety.

Journal: Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2019, Vol. 94(5), pp. 892–905.

Authors: Nathan P. Staff, MD, PhD; David T. Jones, MD; Wolfgang Singer, MD. All three were affiliated with the Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA. Therefore, it is more accurate to write “Mayo Clinic (Department of Neurology), Rochester, USA” rather than “university.”