Treating Autism with Mesenchymal Stem Cells: AlphaCord Partners with Duke University
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AlphaCord Partners With Duke University
In support of Autism Awareness Month, AlphaCord is proud to announce our partnership with Duke University in current clinical trials using Mesenchymal Stem Cell therapy to treat autism.
What are Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)?
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are powerful stem cells found in newborn umbilical cord tissue and are highly concentrated within the Wharton’s Jelly. The processing and storing of cord tissue stem cells have steadily been increasing due to their unique ability to reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and promote neurogenesis, while engaging in organ regeneration and repair. Within the field of regenerative medicine, Mesenchymal Stem Cells are currently being studied 3 to 1 versus cord blood stem cells (Hematopoietic Stem Cells). Many of these studies focus on the use of MSCs to treat autism.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that includes a wide range of symptoms including, but not limited to; difficulty with communication, limited eye contact, inappropriate social interaction, and compulsive or repetitive behavior. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in every 68 children in the United States will be identified with having ASD. With autism becoming more common, there is an urgent need for therapeutic options—treatments using MSCs is one of them. Research has shown promising results in pre-clinical and clinical trials of the therapeutic effects of MSCs.
A completed study investigating the safety and efficiency of human cord blood mononuclear cells and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells transplantation in patients with autism shows significant differences in CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale), ABC (Aberrant Behavior Checklist) Scores, and CGI (Clinical Global Impression) evaluation. This study includes 37 subjects diagnosed with autism that were divided into three separate groups and followed for 24 weeks. The first group received Cord Blood Mononuclear cells (CBMNC); the second group received both CBMNCs and umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs); the third group received only rehabilitation therapy. Group 2, the group that received both CBMNCs and MSCs, showed larger therapeutic effects than the other two groups. Data in this study shows improvements in the following areas: visual, emotional, and intellectual responses; body function; adaption to change, fear, or nervousness; nonverbal communication; and activity level.
Within Group 2, the total scores obtained following CARS assessment scores showed a decrease of 37.9% – a significant difference compared to Group 1 (a decrease of only 20%) and Group 3 (at only 13.7%). Lethargy, social withdrawal, stereotypic behavior, hyperactivity, and inappropriate speech was evaluated by ABC in Group 1 and Group 2. ABC scores were in close relation with the CARS scores with a percentage decrease at 24 weeks. This study shows that Cord Blood and Cord Tissue significantly improve behavioral symptoms in autistic children. The combination group showed overall a more robust therapeutic efficiency compared to the other two groups studied.
