Journal of Translational Medicine, 2014 · DOI: 10.1186/s12967-014-0253-7 · Published: September 2, 2014
This study explores a new way to treat spinal cord injuries using stem cells from umbilical cords. These stem cells can turn into different types of cells, including nerve cells, and may help the spinal cord heal. The researchers compared stem cell treatment to rehabilitation therapy and a control group with no specific treatment. They looked at how well patients could move, take care of themselves, and control their muscles. The results showed that stem cell treatment led to better improvements in movement, self-care, and muscle control compared to the other two groups. Stem cell treatment also improved bladder function.
UCMSC transplantation could be considered as a potential treatment option for patients with sequelae of thoracolumbar spinal cord injury.
Combining UCMSC transplantation with rehabilitation therapy may lead to enhanced neurological functional recovery.
Additional studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm the long-term efficacy and safety of UCMSC transplantation for spinal cord injury.