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  4. Human umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation for the treatment of chronic spinal cord injury: electrophysiological changes and long-term efficacy

Human umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation for the treatment of chronic spinal cord injury: electrophysiological changes and long-term efficacy

Neural Regen Res, 2013 · DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.05.002 · Published: February 1, 2013

Spinal Cord InjuryRegenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the safety and long-term effectiveness of human umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation for treating chronic spinal cord injuries. Twenty-five patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries (occurring more than 6 months prior) received stem cell treatment via intravenous and intrathecal injections. The study found that patients experienced restoration of autonomic nerve functions and a reduction in the latent period of somatosensory evoked potentials. Importantly, no severe adverse reactions were observed following the stem cell transplantation. These findings suggest that human umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation is a safe and potentially effective treatment option for individuals with traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration
12 months
Participants
25 patients with traumatic spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Autonomic nerve functions were restored in some patients after stem cell transplantation.
  • 2
    The latent period of somatosensory evoked potentials was reduced, indicating improved nerve conduction.
  • 3
    No severe adverse reactions were observed in patients following stem cell transplantation, indicating safety.

Research Summary

This study explored the long-term effects of human umbilical cord blood stem cell therapy for chronic spinal cord injury, combining intravenous and direct epidural injection methods. The results indicated improvements in autonomic nerve function and somatosensory evoked potentials in some patients, with no severe complications observed during the 12-month follow-up. The study suggests that human umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation is a safe and potentially effective treatment for patients with traumatic spinal cord injury, warranting further investigation.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic potential

Human umbilical cord blood stem cells show promise as a treatment for chronic spinal cord injuries.

Safety Profile

The study suggests a good safety profile for this type of stem cell therapy.

Improved Function

Improvements in autonomic nerve function and nerve conduction were observed, suggesting potential functional benefits.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The study sample size was relatively small (25 patients).
  • 2
    Lack of a placebo control group may limit the strength of conclusions.
  • 3
    The specific mechanisms of action of stem cells remain unclear.

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