Stem Cell for Autism Patients
Autism is a complex brain developmental disorder that is characterized by impaired social interactions, communication difficulties etc. Depending on degree of severity, some children with autism may develop into independent adults with full time employment and self-sufficiency; however this is seldom the case (2). There is no known single cause but abnormalities in brain function are generally attributed to environmental, immunological and neurological factors.
All the children with autism suffer from two major conditions that are Hypo perfusion and Immune Dysregulation
Hypo perfusion of the brain in autism
Patients suffering from autism show impaired blood flow (hypo perfusion) to the brain. Hypo perfusion may contribute to functional defects. Hypothetically, if perfusion can be improved through the revitalization of blood vessels (angiogenesis), then this should also allow for metabolite clearance and restoration of functionality.
Immune dysregulation in autism
In this type of condition children with autism have immune systems that do not function normally; instead an autoimmune response of the nervous system appears to prevail (3). Astrocytes (supportive brain cells) that normally play a critical role in regulating perfusion [reviewed in 1] and protection against central nervous system infection, have the potential to cause damage to the host when functioning in an aberrant (i.e. auto-immune) manner. Autistic children often have continually suppressed immune systems and chronic inflammation. Immune dysregulation is very apparent in gastrointestinal health. The symptoms range from diarrhea, gas, and bloating to intestinal lesions and inflammation of their gastrointestinal system (3, 4).
STEM CELLS to treat autism
The administration of CD34+ umbilical cord cells and mesenchymal cells are proposed as novel treatments for the two pathologies associated with autism – hypo perfusion to the brain and immune dysregulation (1). Using these two kinds of stem cells together may potentially heal both the brain and the gut (3, 4).
Treatment of hypo perfusion defect with umbilical cord blood CD34+ stem cells
Angiogenesis – the formation of collateral blood vessels – is believed to be fundamental in neurological recovery. A promising method of increasing angiogenesis into damaged areas is by administration of CD34+ stem cells [reviewed in 1]. Umbilical cord blood has highly active CD34+ cells that, following injection into a patient, should induce angiogenesis in areas of cerebral hypo perfusion. Consequently improved blood flow and oxygen to the brain should also improve nervous system.
Immune Modulation By Mesenchymal Stem Cells
The treatment of immune dysregulation in autism is expected to profoundly influence neurological function. The ability of mesenchymal stem cells to suppress pathological immune responses (e.g. inflammation) and to stimulate haematopoiesis (blood cell regeneration) leads to the possibility that these cells may also be useful for treatment of the defect in T cell numbers associated with autism(3).
One of the stem cell therapy providing centers in Europe has released interim results from 10 autism patients treated with stem cells. Overall, more than 70% improved following treatment.
If you enjoyed this post, please consider to leave a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.
