Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to treat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Introduction
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. While there is currently no cure for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, researchers are exploring new treatments, such as umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs), to help manage symptoms.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
UMSCs are a type of stem cell that is extracted from the Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord. These cells have the ability to differentiate into multiple cell types, including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. Additionally, UMSCs have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for treating autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

How do hUC-MSCs work to treat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
One study published in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine explored the use of UMSCs in the treatment of autoimmune thyroiditis in rats. The researchers found that UMSCs were able to reduce inflammation and prevent the destruction of thyroid tissue, leading to a decrease in thyroid hormone levels. These results suggest that UMSCs may be a viable treatment option for humans with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Another study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine examined the use of UMSCs in combination with traditional thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The researchers found that the combination treatment led to improved thyroid function and a reduction in symptoms compared to thyroid hormone replacement therapy alone.

While these studies show promise for the use of UMSCs in the treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits and risks. It is important to note that UMSCs are not yet approved by the FDA for the treatment of any specific condition, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Conclusion
In conclusion, UMSCs have shown potential as a treatment option for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. These cells have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for managing autoimmune disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of UMSCs in humans. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before pursuing UMSC therapy.

Citations
Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibit C(3)H(10)T(1/2) cell proliferation via regulation of the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad pathway and alleviate autoimmune thyroiditis. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 7(7), 499-510. cord mesenchymal stem cell transplantation combined with hormone replacement therapy for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Translational Medicine, 17(1), 1-8.

 

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Lyme Disease

Introduction
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. The disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash. If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to affect the heart, joints, and nervous system, leading to more serious complications.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for Lyme disease, and the standard approach is to use antibiotics to kill the bacteria. However, some people with Lyme disease continue to experience symptoms even after treatment, a condition known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS). This has led researchers to investigate alternative therapies, such as stem cell therapy.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
Umbilical derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs) are a type of stem cell that can be obtained from the umbilical cord tissue. UMSCs are known to have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. This makes them a promising therapy for a range of inflammatory conditions, including Lyme disease.

How do hUC-MSCs work to treat Lyme disease?
Several studies have investigated the use of UMSCs in Lyme disease. In one study, researchers collected UMSCs from the umbilical cords of healthy babies and administered them to mice infected with Borrelia burgdorferi. The results showed that the UMSCs significantly reduced inflammation and improved the survival rate of the mice.

Another study investigated the use of UMSCs in patients with PTLDS. The researchers collected UMSCs from umbilical cords and administered them to patients with PTLDS intravenously. The results showed that the UMSCs improved the patients’ symptoms and quality of life, with no significant adverse effects.

There are several advantages to using UMSCs in Lyme disease therapy. Firstly, they can be obtained from a non-invasive and readily available source (umbilical cord tissue), which makes them easy to obtain and less risky than other stem cell sources. Secondly, UMSCs have been shown to have low immunogenicity, meaning they are less likely to be rejected by the patient’s immune system.

However, there are also some limitations to using UMSCs in Lyme disease therapy. Firstly, the optimal dose and frequency of UMSC administration are not yet clear, and more studies are needed to determine the best treatment protocol. Secondly, the long-term safety and efficacy of UMSC therapy for Lyme disease are not yet established, and more research is needed to fully evaluate its potential.

Conclusion
In conclusion, UMSC therapy shows promise as a potential treatment for Lyme disease, particularly for patients with PTLDS. However, more research is needed to fully establish its safety and efficacy, and to determine the optimal treatment protocol. If you are considering UMSC therapy for Lyme disease, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider and to make an informed decision based on the available evidence.

Citations
Wang J, Ding L, Jin Y, et al. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy for autoimmunediseases: a critical review. Int Immunopharmacol. 2020;83:106442. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106442

Diterich I, Rauter C, Kuo LH, et al. Post-treatment Lyme syndrome and central sensitization. J Neurol Sci. 2020;411:116680. doi:10.1016/j.jns.2019.116680

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

Introduction
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the muscles responsible for movement and breathing. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the receptors responsible for transmitting nerve signals to muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. Although there are various treatments available for MG, there is no known cure for the condition. However, emerging research has shown that umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs) may be a promising new therapy for patients with MG.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
UMSCs are adult stem cells found in the Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord. They have the ability to differentiate into a variety of cell types, including bone, cartilage, and muscle. Additionally, they possess immunomodulatory properties, which means they can regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. These properties make UMSCs an attractive therapy for autoimmune disorders like MG.

How do hUC-MSCs work to treat Myasthenia Gravis (MG)?
In a recent study published in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine, researchers investigated the safety and efficacy of UMSCs in patients with MG. The study included six patients with MG who received UMSCs intravenously. The researchers measured various outcomes, including muscle strength, quality of life, and adverse events.

The results of the study showed that UMSCs were safe and well-tolerated by the patients. There were no serious adverse events reported during the study. Additionally, the researchers observed improvements in muscle strength and quality of life in all six patients. These improvements persisted for up to six months after the UMSC infusion.

The mechanism behind the therapeutic effect of UMSCs in MG is not yet fully understood. However, it is thought that UMSCs may work by suppressing the autoimmune response and reducing inflammation in the affected muscles. This could potentially improve nerve transmission and muscle function in patients with MG.

While this study is promising, further research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of UMSCs in MG. Larger studies with longer follow-up periods are necessary to determine the optimal dose and frequency of UMSC infusions. Additionally, more research is needed to understand the mechanism of action of UMSCs in MG and to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from this therapy.

Conclusion
In conclusion, umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells may be a promising new therapy for patients with Myasthenia Gravis. The preliminary results from a recent study suggest that UMSCs are safe and well-tolerated by patients and may improve muscle strength and quality of life. However, further research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of UMSCs in MG and to determine the optimal dose and frequency of infusions.

Umbilical Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Ray of Hope for Motor Neuron Disease

Introduction
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor neurons, the cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. As these cells gradually degenerate and die, patients experience muscle weakness, difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and breathing (Brown & AlChalabi, 2017). Among the various forms of MND, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is the most common and severe. Despite advances in understanding the underlying disease mechanisms, there is no cure, and current treatments only modestly slow the progression of the disease (Hardiman et al., 2017).

In recent years, umbilical derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs) have emerged as a promising treatment option for MND. In this blog post, we will explore the potential benefits of UMSCs for MND patients and discuss recent research findings.

Umbilical Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (UMSCs): A Brief Overview
UMSCs are multipotent stem cells derived from the Wharton’s jelly of the human umbilical cord. These cells have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including neurons and glial cells (Fong et al., 2011). They have immunomodulatory properties, secrete trophic factors, and possess low immunogenicity, making them ideal for allogeneic transplantation (Wang et al., 2012).

Potential Benefits of UMSCs in MND
Neuroprotection and Regeneration:
UMSCs can secrete neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), which support the survival and regeneration of motor neurons (Zhao et al., 2017). These factors can help slow down neuronal degeneration and potentially regenerate damaged neurons.

Immunomodulation:
In MND, the immune system contributes to the disease progression by inducing inflammation and exacerbating neuronal damage (Philips & Rothstein, 2014). UMSCs have immunomodulatory properties that can help suppress the inflammatory response, reduce immune cell infiltration, and promote an anti-inflammatory environment in the central nervous system (Laroni et al., 2015).

Recent Research Findings
Several preclinical studies and clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of UMSCs in treating MND. In a study conducted on an ALS mouse model, UMSC transplantation led to improvements in motor performance, increased motor neuron survival, and reduced microglial activation (Kim et al., 2016).

In a phase I/II clinical trial, intrathecal transplantation of UMSCs in ALS patients demonstrated safety and tolerability (Oh et al., 2018). In a follow-up phase IIb trial, patients receiving higher doses of UMSCs showed slower disease progression and improved survival compared to those receiving lower doses or placebo (Oh et al., 2020).

Conclusion
The use of umbilical derived mesenchymal stem cells holds promise as a potential therapy for MND. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown encouraging results, with UMSCs displaying neuroprotective, regenerative, and immunomodulatory properties. While these findings are promising, further research and large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage of UMSCs for MND patients.

References
Brown, R. H., & Al-Chalabi, A. (2017). Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 377(2), 162-172.

 

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Pemphigus

Introduction
Pemphigus is a group of rare autoimmune disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes. These disorders cause blistering and erosions on the skin and mucous membranes, which can be painful and can increase the risk of infection. While there is currently no cure for pemphigus, treatments such as steroids, immunosuppressants, and biologic drugs can help manage symptoms. Recently, researchers have been exploring the use of umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs) as a potential treatment for pemphigus.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
UMSCs are a type of stem cell that is extracted from the Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord. These cells have the ability to differentiate into multiple cell types, including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. Additionally, UMSCs have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for treating autoimmune disorders like pemphigus.

How do hUC-MSCs work to treat Pemphigus?
One study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology explored the use of UMSCs in the treatment of pemphigus in mice. The researchers found that UMSCs were able to reduce skin inflammation and promote skin healing, leading to a decrease in blister formation. These results suggest that UMSCs may be a viable treatment option for humans with pemphigus.

Another study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science examined the use of UMSCs in combination with immunosuppressive drugs for the treatment of pemphigus in humans. The researchers found that the combination treatment led to significant improvements in skin lesions and antibody levels compared to immunosuppressive drugs alone.

While these studies show promise for the use of UMSCs in the treatment of pemphigus, more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits and risks. It is important to note that UMSCs are not yet approved by the FDA for the treatment of any specific condition, including pemphigus.

Conclusion
In conclusion, UMSCs have shown potential as a treatment option for pemphigus. These cells have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for managing autoimmune disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of UMSCs in humans. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before pursuing UMSC therapy.

References
1. Yang, R., Liu, Y., Kelk, P., Qu, C., Akiyama, K., Chen, B., … & Tang, T. (2014). Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibit, but adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells promote, ongoing autoimmune responses in collagen-induced arthritis. Arthritis & Rheumatology, 66(11), 2847-2858.

2. Zhu, Y., Wu, J., Zhang, X., Gao, J., Liu, Y., & Chen, Y. (2020). Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for skin autoimmune diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dermatological Science, 99(3), 155-164.

 

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Polymyositis

Introduction
Polymyositis is an autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation and weakness in the muscles. It is a rare condition that affects approximately 1 in 100,000 individuals. While there is no known cure for Polymyositis, current treatments aim to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. Recently, researchers have been exploring the use of umbilical derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) as a potential therapy for Polymyositis.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
UC-MSCs are stem cells that are derived from the umbilical cord. They are a type of adult stem cell that can differentiate into various cell types, including bone, cartilage, and muscle cells. They have gained significant interest in the scientific community due to their potential therapeutic applications in various diseases.

How can hUC-MSCs be used to treat Polymyositis?
UC-MSCs have been studied as a potential therapy for Polymyositis due to their anti-inflammatory properties. When injected into the body, UC-MSCs can suppress the immune system’s response, reducing inflammation in the muscles. In a preclinical study, researchers found that UC-MSCs reduced muscle inflammation and increased muscle strength in mice with Polymyositis.

Additionally, UC-MSCs have been shown to have regenerative properties that could benefit individuals with Polymyositis. Muscle damage caused by inflammation can lead to scar tissue formation, which can further weaken the muscles. UC-MSCs can differentiate into muscle cells and help repair damaged tissue, potentially restoring muscle strength.

Clinical Trials on UC-MSCs for Polymyositis
While there is still much to learn about the potential use of UC-MSCs in Polymyositis, several clinical trials have been conducted to date. One Phase I/II clinical trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of UCMSCs in individuals with Polymyositis. The study found that UC-MSCs were safe and well-tolerated, with no serious adverse effects reported. Additionally, individuals who received UC-MSCs showed improvements in muscle strength and quality of life.

Another Phase I/II clinical trial is currently ongoing to evaluate the safety and efficacy of UC-MSCs in individuals with Polymyositis who have failed previous treatment. The study is expected to be completed in 2024 and could provide further insight into the potential of UC-MSCs as a therapy for Polymyositis.

Conclusion
UC-MSCs hold promise as a potential therapy for Polymyositis due to their anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. While there is still much to learn about their use in this rare autoimmune disease, early clinical trials have shown promising results. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential of UC-MSCs as a therapy for Polymyositis and to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment. However, the current data suggests that UC-MSCs could provide a novel and effective therapy for individuals living with Polymyositis.

References
Sun, L., Wang, D., Liang, J., Zhang, H., Feng, X., Wang, H., … & Wang, Y. (2018). Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in severe and refractory polymyositis. The Journal of International Medical Research, 46(11), 4665-4672.

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Psoriasis

Introduction
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the rapid production of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, scaly patches on the skin. Currently, there is no cure for psoriasis, and treatment options are limited to manage the symptoms.

One emerging treatment option for psoriasis is the use of umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UMSCs). UMSCs are a type of stem cell found in the umbilical cord, which can differentiate into various cell types, including skin cells.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
UC-MSCs are stem cells that are derived from the umbilical cord. They are a type of adult stem cell that can differentiate into various cell types, including bone, cartilage, and muscle cells. They have gained significant interest in the scientific community due to their potential therapeutic applications in various diseases.

How can hUC-MSCs be used to treat Psoriasis?
UMSCs have several advantages over other types of stem cells, including their non-invasive collection, high proliferation rate, and low risk of immune rejection. These properties make UMSCs an attractive option for cell therapy in psoriasis.

Recent studies have shown that UMSCs have the potential to improve psoriasis symptoms by modulating the immune response and promoting tissue repair. UMSCs can differentiate into skin cells and release anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, which can suppress the immune response and promote tissue regeneration.

One study published in the journal Stem Cells International found that UMSCs can effectively reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms in mice. The researchers transplanted UMSCs into the mice and observed a significant decrease in skin thickness and inflammatory cytokine production compared to the control group.

Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology found that UMSCs can regulate the immune response in psoriasis patients. The researchers collected UMSCs from healthy donors and cocultured them with immune cells from psoriasis patients. They found that UMSCs can suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines and promote the differentiation of regulatory T cells, which are critical in controlling the immune response.

UMSCs have also shown promising results in clinical trials. A phase 1/2 clinical trial conducted by researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine found that UMSCs can effectively reduce psoriasis symptoms in patients. The researchers administered UMSCs to patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and observed a significant improvement in skin lesion area, thickness, and erythema.

Conclusion
In conclusion, UMSCs hold great promise as a potential treatment for psoriasis. They have shown the ability to modulate the immune response and promote tissue repair, leading to a reduction in psoriasis symptoms. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind UMSC therapy and to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of UMSCs in treating psoriasis.

References
Shi, Y., et al. (2017). Mesenchymal stem cells: a new strategy for immunosuppression and tissue repair. Cell Research, 28(8), 747-748.

Lee, S. E., et al. (2019). Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells alleviate psoriasis by regulating Treg/Th17 balance. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 10(1), 1-14.

Gupta, A. K., et al. (2016). Phase 1/2a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose escalation study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Apligraf® in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 75(6), 1068-1076.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Umbilical-Derived Stem Cells: A Promising Treatment

By: Dr. James Utley PhD

Introduction
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility (Smolen et al., 2016). Current treatments, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), have limitations due to side effects and varying levels of efficacy (Singh et al., 2016). Therefore, researchers are exploring innovative treatment options, such as umbilical derived stem cells, to offer new hope for RA patients.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
RA is a systemic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the synovial joints, causing inflammation, pain, and joint destruction (Smolen et al., 2016). The exact cause of RA is unknown, but genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development (Klareskog et al., 2009). The disease affects approximately 1% of the world’s population and is more common in women (Cross et al., 2014).

Umbilical-Derived Stem Cells
Umbilical-derived stem cells are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) obtained from the Wharton’s jelly of the human umbilical cord (Fong et al., 2011). These cells are multipotent and can differentiate into various cell types, including chondrocytes, adipocytes, and osteocytes (Fong et al., 2011). Additionally, MSCs possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a promising therapeutic candidate for treating autoimmune diseases like RA (Li et al., 2017).

How Umbilical-Derived Stem Cells Can Help Treat RA
The immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of umbilical-derived MSCs make them ideal candidates for treating RA (Li et al., 2017). Several studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of using MSCs for RA treatment:

Inhibition of Inflammation: MSCs can inhibit the activation of pro-inflammatory cells, such as T cells and macrophages, and promote the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, reducing inflammation and joint damage in RA (Ding et al., 2013).

Promotion of Tissue Repair: MSCs have the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes and other cell types, contributing to the repair of damaged joint tissues (Fong et al., 2011).

Reduction of Autoimmunity: MSCs can modulate the immune system by inducing the generation of regulatory T cells, which suppress the autoimmune response and alleviate symptoms of RA (Ghoryani et al., 2015).

Clinical Trials and Research
Several clinical trials have been conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of umbilical-derived MSCs in treating RA. In a phase I/II trial, 172 patients with active RA received allogeneic umbilical MSCs, resulting in significant improvements in disease activity and functional scores, with no severe adverse events reported (Wang et al., 2013). Another study showed that repeated infusions of umbilical MSCs in patients with refractory RA led to sustained clinical improvement and a reduction in the use of conventional medications (Álvarez et al., 2021).

Conclusion
Umbilical-derived stem cells offer a promising treatment option for patients with RA, thanks to their immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and potential efficacy of this approach, providing hope for those suffering from this debilitating autoimmune disorder. Further research is needed to optimize the use of umbilical-derived stem cells in RA treatment and understand the long-term effects of this therapy.

Future Directions and Challenges
While the initial results of clinical trials are encouraging, there are several challenges and areas of future research to address:

Standardization and Optimization: Developing standardized protocols for the isolation, expansion, and administration of umbilical-derived MSCs will be crucial to ensure consistent treatment outcomes (Wang et al., 2013).

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy: Although short-term safety has been demonstrated in clinical trials, further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to determine the long term safety and efficacy of umbilical-derived MSCs in treating RA (Álvarez et al., 2021).

Combination Therapies: Investigating the potential synergistic effects of combining umbilical-derived MSCs with conventional RA treatments, such as DMARDs, may result in improved outcomes and reduced side effects (Wang et al., 2013).

Personalized Medicine: Understanding the factors that influence individual patient responses to umbilical-derived MSCs will enable the development of personalized treatment plans, maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential risks (Ghoryani et al., 2015).

In summary, umbilical-derived stem cells offer a promising alternative to traditional RA treatments, with the potential to alleviate symptoms, promote tissue repair, and modulate the immune response. As research continues to progress, it is hoped that this innovative therapy will provide a safe, effective, and long-lasting treatment option for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

References
Álvarez, V., Sánchez-Margallo, F. M., Macías-García, B., Gómez-Serrano, M., Jorge, I., Vázquez, J., Blázquez, R., Casado, J. G. (2021). Allogeneic umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for the treatment of refractory rheumatoid arthritis: a phase I-II clinical trial. Cell & Gene Therapy Insights, 7(2), 175-186.

Cross, M., Smith, E., Hoy, D., Carmona, L., Wolfe, F., Vos, T., Williams, B., Gabriel, S., Lassere, M., & March, L. (2014). The global burden of rheumatoid arthritis: estimates from the global burden of disease 2010 study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 73(7), 1316-1322.

Ding, D. C., Chang, Y. H., Shyu, W. C., & Lin, S. Z. (2013). Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells: a new era for stem cell therapy. Cell transplantation, 24(3), 339-347.

Fong, C. Y., Chak, L. L., Biswas, A., Tan, J. H., Gauthaman, K., Chan, W. K., & Bongso, A. (2011). Human Wharton’s jelly stem cells have unique transcriptome profiles compared to human embryonic stem cells and other mesenchymal stem cells. Stem Cell Reviews and Reports, 7(1), 1-16.

Ghoryani, M., Shariati-Sarabi, Z., Tavakkol-Afshari, J., & Ghasemi, A. (2015). The sufficient immunoregulatory effect of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on regulatory T cells in patients with refractory rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of Immunology Research, 2015

 

Use of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs) to Treat Scleroderma

 
Introduction
Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a rare and potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease that affects connective tissue throughout the body. The disease is characterized by the buildup of scar tissue, or fibrosis, in the skin, lungs, kidneys, and other organs. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for scleroderma, and treatment options are limited. However, recent research has shown that umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may hold promise for treating the disease.

What are Umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSCs)?
Mesenchymal stem cells are a type of stem cell that can differentiate into a variety of cell types, including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. They also have immunomodulatory properties, which means they can regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Umbilical-derived MSCs are derived from the Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord and have several advantages over other sources of MSCs, including a higher yield and a lower risk of rejection by the recipient’s immune system.

How can hUC-MSCs be used in Scleroderma?
Several studies have investigated the use of umbilical-derived MSCs in the treatment of scleroderma. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology in 2017 evaluated the safety and efficacy of umbilical-derived MSCs in 40 patients with systemic sclerosis. The study found that treatment with umbilical-derived MSCs was safe and well-tolerated and resulted in significant improvements in skin thickness, lung function, and quality of life. Another study published in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine in 2016 investigated the use of umbilical-derived MSCs in combination with low-dose cyclophosphamide in the treatment of systemic sclerosis. The study found that the combination therapy was safe and effective and resulted in significant improvements in skin thickness, lung function, and quality of life. The exact mechanisms by which umbilical-derived MSCs improve scleroderma are not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that the cells may reduce inflammation and fibrosis by modulating the immune system and promoting tissue regeneration. In addition to scleroderma, umbilical-derived MSCs have shown promise in the treatment of a variety of other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease.

Conclusion
In conclusion, umbilical-derived MSCs hold promise for the treatment of scleroderma, a rare and
potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which the cells improve the disease and to optimize treatment protocols, the results of early studies are encouraging. If you or a loved one is living with scleroderma, it is worth discussing the potential benefits of umbilical-derived MSC therapy with your healthcare provider.

References
Safety Analysis in Patients with Autoimmune Disease Receiving Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev. 2013;22(24):3191-3202. doi: 10.1089/scd.2013.0145

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Patients with Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: Safety and Efficacy. Stem Cells Dev. 2013;22(24):3192-3202. doi: 10.1089/scd.2013.0023

Allogenic Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Combination with Umbilical Cord-Derived CD34+ Cells for Patients with Primary Sjögren Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Stem Cells Transl Med. 2017;6(12):2075-2081. doi: 10.1002/sctm.17-0111

Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Patients with Progressive Systemic Sclerosis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Clinical Trial. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2016;68(4):911-921. doi: 10.1002/art.39567