There is hope for a cure for Parkinson’s disease using stem cell transplant, according to the latest research. In February 2023, Skåne University Hospital doctors made a significant discovery in treating Parkinson’s disease by performing the first-ever stem cell transplant on a patient.
Researchers create embryonic stem cell transplant products for Parkinson’s
According to the experts who created the procedure at Lund University, it represents a significant advancement in managing Parkinson’s disease.
Notably, researchers used embryonic stem cells to create the transplanted product. The stem cells act as a substitute for the dopaminergic nerve cells that Parkinson’s patients generally lose as the condition worsens. It is important to note that the maiden patient to receive the transplant is one of the eight patients that will receive the transplant.
Principal STEM-PF clinical study investigator and consultant neurologists at Skane University Hospital Gesine Paul-Visse said this is a critical achievement in cell therapy that will be instrumental in treating Parkinson’s disease patients. The neurologist said that the transplant was complete as anticipated, and the correct location for the cell transplant was confirmed through MRI. However, it is important to note that possible STEM PD-product effects could take many years to note. He added that the patient had been discharged, and evaluation would follow based on the study protocol.
Parkinson’s is associated with the degeneration of dopamine-producing nerve cells
Parkinson’s disease affects around 8 million individuals globally. The primary symptom of this condition is the degeneration of dopamine nerve cells situated deep within the brain, leading to complications with movement coordination, such as hand tremors. The standard therapy for Parkinson’s usually involves drugs that replenish the diminished dopamine levels. However, these medications often become less effective and can result in adverse reactions as time passes.
No therapy can replace the lost dopamine nerve cells or repair damaged cell structures. However, stem cells hold promise, according to the STEM PD study. According to the experts, the cells will mature into new healthy dopamine-releasing nerve cells in the brain, creating an opportunity to treat neurological disease.
