Authors: Emma Lerner, Vincent S. Gallicchio.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. While current treatments focus on symptom management and disease modification, they often have limitations such as incomplete efficacy and variable response rates among patients. Stem cell therapies, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), have emerged as promising approaches to address the complex pathophysiology of MS. Animal studies have shown that these stem cells can modulate the immune response, promote remyelination, and support neuronal repair in the EAE model. Human clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and potential efficacy of MSCs and HSCs in reducing disease progression and improving neurological function in MS patients. Whereas therapies based in iPSCs have not reached clinical applications due to complications regarding tumorigenicity and immunogenicity Additionally, continued challenges such as optimizing stem cell sources, understanding the mechanisms of action, and conducting robust long-term clinical trials stand as barriers to treatment application. Closing the gap between preclinical research and clinical implementation requires determination of protocols, understanding regulatory pathways, and efficient manufacturing of stem cell sources. Overall, stem cell therapies represent a promising avenue for improving the treatment of MS, but further research and clinical development are needed to fully realize their potential.
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