Beyond Boundaries: How Stem Cells Are Reshaping Organ and Tissue Transplantation
Within the sacred corridors of medical advancement, a profound transformation is silently taking place, poised to reshape the very foundations of organ and tissue transplantation. Envision a realm where donor shortages and the specter of immune system rejection fade into history, and where medical horizons stretch to unprecedented frontiers. In this immersive voyage, we embark on a journey to unmask the enigmatic power of stem cells in the realm of transplantation, a journey that invites you to witness the precipice of medical progress.
Stem Cells: Pioneers of Regeneration
Stem cells, those remarkable architects of the body’s rejuvenation, harbor an astonishing talent for metamorphosis, seamlessly transforming into diverse cell types to mend and invigorate damaged tissues. When seamlessly integrated into the landscape of organ and tissue transplantation, stem cells open a tantalizing path towards surmounting the inherent complexities of these procedures. Whether it’s breathing vitality into faltering heart muscles, reviving the compromised functionality of a beleaguered liver, or revitalizing lungs beset by adversity, stem cells emerge as the harbinger of transformation for transplantation outcomes.
The Choreography of Compatibility
Navigating the intricate choreography of compatibility between donor and recipient is one of the most formidable tasks in transplantation. The ever-watchful immune system often triggers rejection, undermining even the most meticulous transplantation endeavors. Yet, stem cells are orchestrating a symphony of change. Through ingenious techniques, researchers are tapping into stem cells’ immunomodulatory prowess, crafting an environment of harmonious coexistence between donor and recipient. This revolutionary approach not only mitigates the risks of rejection but also broadens the spectrum of viable donors.
A Symphony of Science
The harmony between stem cells and transplantation is not an untested hypothesis; it’s a symphony composed through rigorous scientific exploration. An extensive repertoire of peer-reviewed studies, gracing the pages of prestigious journals such as The Lancet and Nature Communications, underscores the potential of stem cells to elevate transplant success rates. These studies illuminate advancements spanning from refining graft survival to hastening the regeneration of vital tissues, a resounding affirmation of the transformative capabilities underpinning stem cell-driven transplantation.
Embark on a Journey of Revelation
Eager to unravel the mysteries encapsulating stem cell-powered transplantation? We extend a heartfelt invitation to embark on an illuminating expedition through our comprehensive training courses in regenerative medicine. Enrich your understanding under the tutelage of eminent experts, delving into the most recent breakthroughs, evidence-based methodologies, and clinical applications. Step into a realm where the boundaries of medical possibilities are redrawn, where your perception of transplantation is enriched, and where you assume the mantle of a pioneer in the regenerative revolution.
The fusion of stem cells and organ transplantation isn’t confined to the realm of scientific speculation; it represents a monumental stride towards re-scripting the destinies of countless lives. As we venture into an epoch where medical accomplishments redefine our limits, the expedition becomes all the more exhilarating.
Join us at issca.us, where the convergence of science and hope awaits. Immerse yourself in the vanguard of regenerative medicine, where the transformative prowess of stem cells beckons. Together, we shall forge ahead, empowered by the symphony of possibilities, shaping a brighter, healthier future for generations to come.
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Advancements in Hair Transplantation: A Paradigm Shift in Regenerative Medicine
In the realm of regenerative medicine, hair transplantation has experienced remarkable progress in recent years. As part of a multidisciplinary community of physicians and scientists dedicated to advancing the field, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in this area. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the cutting-edge advancements in hair transplantation, highlighting the convergence of science, technology, and practice.
Tissue Engineering in Hair Transplantation:
The integration of tissue engineering principles into hair transplantation has opened new avenues for regenerative medicine. Scientists are actively exploring the use of biomaterials, growth factors, and scaffolds to create an optimal environment for transplanted hair follicles. By nurturing follicular cells, tissue engineering techniques hold immense potential in enhancing transplantation outcomes and promoting tissue regeneration.
Stem Cell-Based Approaches:
Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising strategy within the realm of hair transplantation. Researchers are investigating the utilization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) to stimulate hair follicle regeneration. These unique regenerative cells promote hair growth and significantly enhance the success rate of transplantation procedures. Ongoing research in stem cell-based therapies continues to unveil their potential to revolutionize hair restoration techniques.
Gene Therapy for Hair Loss:
Gene therapy is gaining traction as a cutting-edge approach to addressing hair loss at its core. Scientists aim to develop innovative treatments for both genetic and acquired forms of hair loss by manipulating genes involved in hair growth and regulation. Techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing hold immense potential for altering gene expression associated with hair follicle development, offering personalized regenerative therapies.
Nanotechnology in Hair Transplantation:
Nanotechnology has paved the way for groundbreaking advancements in hair transplantation. Researchers are exploring the application of nanomaterials and nanoparticles to enhance the targeted delivery of growth factors, drugs, and stem cells directly to the hair follicles. This precise and controlled release optimizes the regenerative potential of transplanted hair follicles, leading to improved treatment outcomes and faster healing.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning:
The integration of AI and machine learning algorithms has transformed various medical fields, including hair transplantation. AI-powered technologies assist in precise hair follicle extraction, optimizing graft placement, and predicting post-transplant outcomes. By analyzing vast datasets and patterns, AI algorithms enhance decision-making, improve surgical techniques, and contribute to personalized treatment plans in hair transplantation.
As active contributors to the advancement of regenerative medicine, staying informed about the latest developments in hair transplantation is crucial. Tissue engineering, stem cell-based approaches, gene therapy, nanotechnology, and the integration of AI and machine learning are reshaping the landscape of hair restoration. By remaining at the forefront of these advancements, physicians and scientists can harness the power of regenerative medicine to effectively treat hair loss and alleviate human suffering.
Join us at Issca.com and let us continue to collaborate, innovate, and explore the limitless potential of regenerative therapies.
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Stem Cells and Diabetes: Exploring a Path to Improved Management
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that destroys the insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. People with type 2 diabetes can often control their blood sugar levels with diet, exercise, and oral medications.
However, these treatments are not always effective or sufficient for some people with diabetes. Moreover, they can have side effects such as weight gain, hypoglycemia, and gastrointestinal problems. Therefore, there is a need for alternative treatments that can restore the function of the pancreatic beta cells and provide a long-lasting cure for diabetes.
One of the most promising alternative treatments for diabetes is stem cell therapy. Stem cell therapy is a method of using various types of stem cells to replace or enhance the function of damaged or diseased cells in the body. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into different types of specialized cells, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, or blood cells.
Stem cell therapy for diabetes aims to generate new insulin-producing beta cells from stem cells and transplant them into the pancreas or other sites in the body where they can secrete insulin in response to blood sugar levels. Different sources of stem cells can be used for this purpose, such as adult stem cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells.
Adult stem cells (ASCs) are found in various tissues and organs of the body and have the ability to differentiate into specific cell types related to their origin. For example, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ASCs that can be isolated from bone marrow, adipose tissue, or umbilical cord blood and can differentiate into bone, cartilage, fat, or muscle cells. MSCs have been shown to have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect the transplanted beta cells from immune attack or inflammation. MSCs can also secrete growth factors and cytokines that can stimulate the regeneration of endogenous beta cells or enhance the function of exogenous beta cells.
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are generated by reprogramming somatic cells (such as skin cells or blood cells) into a pluripotent state similar to ESCs using specific genes or factors. iPSCs can overcome the ethical and immunological issues of ESCs, as they do not require the use of embryos and can be derived from the patient’s own cells. iPSCs can also be genetically modified to correct any defects or enhance any features of the beta cells.
Several studies have demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of stem cell therapy for diabetes in animal models and human trials. For example, a study by Rezania et al. (2014) reported that they were able to generate glucose-responsive insulin-secreting beta cells from human iPSCs using a seven-stage differentiation protocol. These beta cells were able to reverse diabetes in mice upon transplantation under the kidney capsule. Another study by Pagliuca et al. (2014) reported that they were able to produce large-scale batches of functional beta cells from human ESCs using a three-dimensional culture system and sequential modulation of key signaling pathways. These beta cells were also able to reverse diabetes in mice upon transplantation under the kidney capsule.
In conclusion, stem cell therapy for diabetes is a novel and promising alternative treatment that can potentially provide a permanent cure for this chronic condition by replacing or enhancing the function of insulin-producing beta cells. We still need to explore a lot of ground, in terms of these and other conditions. You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Advancing Women’s Health: The Transformative Applications of Regenerative Medicine and Exosomes in GYN-OBS
In recent years, the field of gynecology and obstetrics (GYN-OBS) has witnessed remarkable advancements in regenerative medicine and the utilization of exosomes. These groundbreaking technologies offer innovative approaches to address various gynecological and obstetric conditions, revolutionizing the way we approach women’s health. Let’s explore the exciting applications of regenerative medicine and exosomes in GYN-OBS and their potential to transform patient care.
- Regenerative Medicine: Unleashing the Power of Healing
Regenerative medicine harnesses the body’s own regenerative capabilities to promote healing, tissue repair, and regeneration. In GYN-OBS, it has shown promising applications in conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic floor disorders, and even infertility. Through the use of stem cell therapy and other regenerative techniques, women can experience non-invasive and effective treatments that target the root causes of their conditions.
- Exosomes: The Cellular Messengers of Healing
Exosomes, tiny vesicles derived from stem cells, are gaining recognition for their pivotal role in intercellular communication. In GYN-OBS, exosomes are being investigated for their potential to modulate inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and enhance healing. They hold promise in managing conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, optimizing postpartum recovery, and even supporting reproductive health.
- Enhancing Fertility and Reproductive Health
One area where regenerative medicine and exosomes are making significant strides is in fertility and reproductive health. Stem cell therapies offer the potential to improve ovarian function, restore hormonal balance, and enhance the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies. Additionally, exosomes may play a role in optimizing endometrial receptivity and supporting embryo implantation, leading to improved outcomes in fertility treatments.
- Reimagining Postpartum Recovery and Pelvic Health
The postpartum period can bring challenges for women, including pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, and perineal tears. Regenerative medicine and exosome therapies present promising solutions for promoting postpartum healing, strengthening pelvic floor muscles, and improving overall pelvic health. These non-surgical and minimally invasive approaches offer women new avenues for restoring their well-being and quality of life after childbirth.
The applications of regenerative medicine and exosomes in GYN-OBS herald a new era in women’s healthcare. With their potential to address a wide range of gynecological and obstetric conditions, these innovative technologies bring hope and transformative possibilities for women worldwide. As research and advancements continue to unfold, the future of GYN-OBS holds promise for personalized, non-invasive, and effective treatments that prioritize the holistic well-being of women.
Remember, always consult with healthcare professionals to understand the best options for your individual needs and explore the potential of regenerative medicine and exosomes in GYN-OBS. You can learn more about regenerative medicine by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Ozone Therapy: A Promising Alternative Treatment with Potential Benefits
Ozone therapy is a promising alternative medical treatment that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves the administration of ozone, a form of oxygen, to treat various medical conditions, ranging from chronic pain to infections. Although the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of ozone therapy remains limited, many people claim to have experienced significant health benefits from this alternative treat
ment. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits and risks of ozone therapy, as well as the latest research on this alternative medical treatment.
What is ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective alternative medical treatment that has been used for over a century. It involves the administration of ozone, a gas made up of three oxygen atoms, to the body in various forms, such as injections, insufflations, or topical applications. Ozone is a powerful oxidant that can damage cells and tissues, which can have positive or negative effects, depending on the form and amount of ozone used.
One of the key benefits of ozone therapy is its ability to improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the tissues, which can help reduce inflammation, support wound healing, and boost immune function. Additionally, ozone therapy is believed to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which may help fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
What are the potential benefits of ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy has been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including:
- Chronic pain: Ozone therapy may help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs, and fibromyalgia.
- Infections: Ozone therapy may help fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including Lyme disease, hepatitis, and HIV.
- Autoimmune diseases: Ozone therapy may help reduce inflammation and improve immune function in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
- Skin conditions: Ozone therapy may help treat various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne, by improving blood circulation and oxygenation.
Moreover, ozone therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment that doesn’t have the side effects commonly associated with traditional medical treatments. It’s also relatively inexpensive and can be administered in a variety of settings, including clinics, hospitals, and private practices.
What does the latest research say about ozone therapy?
Although the scientific evidence on the effectiveness and safety of ozone therapy remains limited, some recent studies have suggested that ozone therapy may have potential health benefits in certain conditions.
A study published in the Cuban journal of immunology describes the immunomodulatory properties of ozone therapy by characterizing the biological effects of ozone on immune system cells, soluble mediators and other cell types.
In another example, in a 2022 review on ozone therapy in pain medicine, authors agree on the high safety of pain treatments with ozone therapy, especially modern medical ozone generators with great precision. Similarly, a 2020 study on Systemic ozone therapy in insulin-dependent diabetic patients found that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of ozone currently make it one of the most efficient therapeutic tools for the control of chronic pain in insulin-dependent diabetic patients.
Ultimately, ozone therapy is a promising alternative medical treatment that has been used to treat various medical conditions. Many people claim to have experienced significant health benefits from this alternative treatment. Furthermore, ozone therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment that doesn’t have the side effects commonly associated with traditional medical treatments.
If you’re interested in ozone therapy, make sure to do your research, ask questions, and consider this alternative medical treatment as a potential option for your health concerns. It’s important to stay informed about the latest developments in stem cell therapy. You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Personalized Regenerative Medicine: The Future of Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is a rapidly growing field that focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or diseased tissues and organs using stem cells, growth factors, and other advanced therapies. The effectiveness of this approach has been demonstrated in treating a wide range of conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, joint pain, and neurological disorders. One of the major challenges of regenerative medicine, however, is that not every patient responds to the same treatment. This is where personalized regenerative medicine comes into play.
What is Personalized Regenerative Medicine?
Personalized regenerative medicine involves tailoring treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient based on their genetic profile, lifestyle, and medical history. This approach recognizes that no two patients are the same, and that a one-size-fits-all approach to regenerative medicine is not always effective.
As part of personalized regenerative medicine, advanced technologies such as genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics are used to analyze a patient’s unique biological profile. In order to provide customized and targeted treatment to patients, regenerative medicine centers utilize this information to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their individual needs and conditions, ranging from stem cell therapy to gene therapy.
Why is Personalized Regenerative Medicine the Future of Regenerative Medicine?
There are several reasons why personalized regenerative medicine is the future of regenerative medicine:
- More effective treatments: By tailoring treatments to individual patients, personalized regenerative medicine has the potential to be much more effective than traditional one-size-fits-all approaches.
- Improved patient outcomes: Because personalized regenerative medicine takes into account the unique needs and conditions of each patient, it has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
- Lower healthcare costs: By providing more effective treatments and reducing the risk of complications, personalized regenerative medicine has the potential to lower healthcare costs in the long run.
- Better understanding of disease: Personalized regenerative medicine involves analyzing a patient’s unique biological profile, which can help researchers and healthcare providers better understand the underlying mechanisms of disease.
- Advancements in technology: As technology continues to advance, personalized regenerative medicine will become even more precise and effective, leading to even better patient outcomes.
The concept of personalized regenerative medicine is an exciting new approach to regenerative medicine that has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry. Individualized regenerative medicine has the potential to be more effective, improve patient outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and provide better understanding of disease by tailoring treatments to the individual patient. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in this field in the years to come.
You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Revolutionizing Neurodegenerative Care: The Advancements in Stem Cell Therapy
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are a group of incurable neurological disorders, characterized by the chronic progressive loss of different neuronal subtypes. The conditions are debilitating and affect millions of people worldwide. Despite its increasing prevalence among the ever-increasing aging population, little progress has been made in the coincident immense efforts towards development of therapeutic agents. However, recent advancements in stem cell therapy including stem cells-derived exosomes, neurotrophic factors (NTFs), and their combination as potential therapeutic agents in neurodegenerative diseases.
In recent years, stem cells have emerged as one of the most active research therapeutic tools for many diseases. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to develop into pluripotent stem cells and adult stem cells. All stem cells have the potentiality of continuous self-renewal, high proliferation, and multidirectional differentiation into various cell types to replace degenerated or dead cells. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, stem cells can be used to replace lost or damaged neurons, provide neuroprotection, and promote neural repair. These properties make stem cells an attractive option for treating neurodegenerative diseases, as they have the potential to slow or even reverse the progression of these conditions.
One of the key benefits of stem cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases is that it offers a non-invasive, minimally-invasive, and non-toxic alternative to traditional treatments. Unlike drugs and surgery, stem cell therapy does not produce adverse side effects, and can be administered in a safe and controlled manner. In clinical trials, stem cell therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
- Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most common form of dementia, affecting approximately 55 million people worldwide. Cognitive impairment is a hallmark of AD. Currently, drug therapies can only delay symptoms, but not relieve disease pathology or progression. Researchers have demonstrated that neurons derived from stem cells can integrate with existing neural networks and repair damaged neurons within the host brain, improving learning and memory deficits, and NTFs can improve AD symptoms and provide neuroprotective effects.
- Parkinson’s disease (PD)
The second most common neurodegenerative disorder is Parkinson’s disease (PD). The motor symptoms of PD mainly include rest tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability, while common nonmotor symptoms include neuropsychiatric and sleep disorders as well as sensory and autonomic dysfunction. At present, there is no cure for PD or disease-modifying therapy. It is common for symptom-relief medications to only provide partial relief and elicit side effects such as motor complications, gastrointestinal problems, and neurological issues. In spite of the fact that these treatments do not address the underlying pathology, alternative therapies, especially those based on stem cells and NTFs, are still being pursued intensively.
- Huntington’s disease (HD)
Huntington’s disease (HD) is characterized by motor, cognitive, and psychiatric dysfunctions. The study of multiple possible neurodegenerative mechanisms of HD is currently underway, and this knowledge is expected to contribute to the development of new HD treatments. The abilities of stem cells to rescue or replace the damaged and dying neurons, and to prevent further cell damage and death, make stem cell-based therapies promising for treatment of this neurode-generative disease.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
As a neurodegenerative disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) involves progressive degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in palsy and death within 3-5 years of onset. Currently, only two disease-modifying medicines are available, each showing benefit to a limited number of patients. Stem cell-based therapy holds great promise for treating ALS by providing both cell replacement and NTF delivery to target the multiple pathologies. Stem cells available for ALS treatment include NSCs, MSCs, embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and olfactory ensheathing stem cells.
While stem cell therapy is still in the early stages of development, it holds enormous promise as a future treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. A number of studies have demonstrated that stem cells and NTFs offer considerable therapeutic potential, especially when they are used together. In addition to replenishing target neurons, stem cells combined with NTFs can produce neurotrophins to improve the microenvironment that promotes nerve repair and regeneration. As research continues, we can expect to see even more exciting advancements in this field, bringing hope to those affected by these debilitating conditions.
It’s important to stay informed about the latest developments in stem cell therapy. You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Mesenchymal Stem Cells For Cardiovascular Diseases
Despite progress in cardiovascular research, cardiac pathology continues to be one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Stem cell-based therapy has been recognized as an innovative strategy for the repair, regeneration and functional recovery of the myocardium, hence, once the animal research stage has been overcome, most clinical trials aimed at evaluating the safety and effectiveness of regenerative medicine in cardiovascular diseases have focused on angina pectoris, myocardial infarction and chronic cardiomyopathy. Although the current evidence of benefit is not conclusive, the evidence in favor of favorable results is growing.
In some cases, stem cell therapy can provide an effective treatment or alternative for diseases or disorders for which there is no effective treatment. Because these cells are capable of dividing into a wide range of lineages and tissues, they can be used to treat various diseases by repairing, replacing, and regenerating tissues.
It is unclear how umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells act on the heart, but previous studies have shown that they possess an anti-apoptotic effect. The induced cardiomyocytes can form discs interspersed with myocytes from the host cells, creating a functional syncytium that will help contract the heart. Mesenchymal stem cells can improve cardiac function and reduce damage caused by cardiovascular disease, since they stimulate endogenous repair mechanisms, the regulation of the immune response, tissue perfusion and the proliferation of the resident heart rate, thereby improving cardiac function and reducing damage severity.
Refractory angina
This syndrome, characterized by persistent angina despite standard medical treatment, is often not revascularized due to diffuse coronary lesions or severe comorbidities.
In 2017, a review included 13 clinical studies, with 1061 patients and 12 months of follow-up on average, indicating cell therapy has emerged as a tool for managing these patients. Although the available data are inconclusive, the authors conclude that stem cell-based therapy could be a viable addition to conventional treatment options for refractory angina, given the paucity of therapeutic alternatives.
There was a reduction in mortality at two years after a meta-analysis in 2018, involving 304 patients, showed improved exercise tolerance and reduced angina attack frequency at three, six and 12 months. An additional meta-analysis published in March 2019, involving 526 patients monitored for 14 months, showed that patients treated with stem cells had fewer serious adverse effects, fewer deaths, fewer angina attacks, and fewer antianginal medications than those treated with conventional management.
A third meta-analysis from 2019, with 269 patients and 15 months of follow-up on average, reports the following results: decreased all-cause mortality, decreased frequency of angina and increased exercise time, with no increase in adverse reactions.
Cardiomyopathy (ischemic and non-ischemic)
Despite optimal medical and surgical management, many patients with heart failure undergo long-term myocardial remodeling that does not allow them to restore their ventricular function. This is because current treatment protocols cannot reverse the loss of cardiomyocytes due to cardiomyopathy. Since inflammatory responses continue over time as a central mechanism in the development of heart failure, it was of interest to investigate the anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and immunomodulatory properties of stem cells in patients with ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.
In a review of five clinical studies published between 2017 and 2018, including 605 patients, the authors conclude that cell therapy is safe, causes immunomodulatory effects, improves functional capacity, and adds clinical benefits to standard therapies. According to them, the results are promising, and further evidence strengthening is recommended.
Based on a meta-analysis published in May 2019, involving 20 investigations and 1418 patients evaluated for an average of 21 months, stem cells improved cardiac function indicators (LVEF and LVESV), walking distance, functional classification of heart failure, quality of life, and mortality as compared to controls. Hospitalizations and serious adverse events were not different from those in the control group.
In a recent review of 9 studies involving 612 patients with heart failure, improvement was found in clinical and paraclinical parameters, evaluated on average for 9 months. According to the authors, stem cells are an effective therapy for the treatment of heart failure, improving patient prognosis and ability to exercise.
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
The application of stem cells was associated with a significant increase in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and other variables indicative of improved ventricular function and modification of remodeling in patients with AMI receiving timely percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and conventional medication in different studies. Even coronary artery bypass grafting with stem cells offers greater benefits. A number of studies have also shown that intravenous administration could be a more efficient and effective method of treating the heart or coronary arteries than direct application, with logistic, safety, and cost advantages.
Stem cell therapy is evidenced to be a safe way to treat cardiovascular diseases, as it shows an anti-apoptotic effect, reduction of lesion size, improvement of cardiac function through regulation of the immune response, adequate tissue perfusion and activation of growth factors.
We still need to explore a lot of ground, in terms of these and other conditions. You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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Atherosclerosis obliterans grade IV: Application of Autologous Stem Cells
Atherosclerosis is the most common form of arterial occlusive disease in adults. About 15 percent of adults over 55 years of age suffer from critical ischemia, the most severe form of this disease.
Due to the gradual aging of the population and the growing number of people in their third age group, a number of studies have been conducted in order to improve the prognosis of atherosclerosis obliterans and to find alternatives to the mutilation of the extremities. As a general rule, chronic ischemia of the lower limbs should be treated to alleviate symptoms, particularly pain, prevent disease progression, and reduce the rate of amputations. In most patients with critical ischemia, the main goal is to preserve the affected limb.
The development of regenerative medicine is closely linked to the development of new knowledge about embryonic and adult stem cells, as well as the regenerative and therapeutic potential of stem cell therapy. The use of adult stem cells in the treatment of peripheral artery diseases has been demonstrated as a therapeutic agent for inducing angiogenesis. Recent preclinical studies as well as the pioneering clinical studies indicate that bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (MBMCs) can enhance tissue vascularization in ischemic limbs, with results similar to those obtained with peripheral blood stem cells supply.
Cuba presented the first studies carried out in 2004 at the Institute of Hematology of the “Enrique Cabrera” hospital in Havana City, which achieved encouraging clinical results and had very few adverse effects in recent years.
A progressive rise in the accumulated experience with stem cells was also observed in Pinar del Rio in 2005, as the first 10 cases were carried out. The rising ease of obtaining this type of cell has made research and applications with these cells advance rapidly with great expectations in terms of clinical application.
A study published by Dia-Diaz, et al. in the Journal of Medical Sciences of Pinar del Rio examined 296 patients with grade IV atherosclerosis obliterans between 2009 and 2019. During the study, autologous stem cells were injected intramuscularly from peripheral blood. Within four weeks, pain relief was observed, as well as an increase in the pain-free claudication distance. Angiography after treatment revealed collateral vessel formation. The limb was saved in 201 patients (68%), while 95 cases (32%) presented amputation criteria. Complications were not reported following the procedure.
The study demonstrated the effectiveness of the implantation of autologous stem cells obtained from peripheral blood, as well as the favorable evolution of patients, clinical improvement of rest pain, walking distance without claudication and ankle-brachial pressure index.
We still need to explore a lot of ground, in terms of these and other conditions. You can learn more about regenerative medicine and stem cells by enrolling in our international certification program at www.issca.us
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The emerging role of MSC-derived exosomes in Regenerative Medicine
In recent years, MSCs have been introduced as respectable candidates for regenerative medicine due to their pro-angiogenic, anti-apoptotic, and immunomodulatory attributes. A variety of human tissues can be used as a source of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), ranging from bone marrow (BM) to umbilical cord (UC). These cells are typically multipotent and can differentiate into a variety of cell types. MSCs have been studied extensively for potential applications in cardiomyopathy, neurodegenerative disorders, spinal cord injuries (SCI), kidney injuries, liver injuries, lung injuries, and even cancer. According to current research, MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to MSC-exerted therapeutic benefits.
As defined by the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV), EVs are lipid bilayer particles secreted by cells that do not replicate. EVs can be categorised into three subclasses based on size and biogenesis procedures: surrounding exosomes (50-150 nm), microvesicles (MVs) (100-1000 nm), and apoptotic bodies (ApoBDs) (500-5000 nm). In order for exosomes to be produced, multiple steps must occur; endosomes must be created from the plasma membrane, intraluminal vesicles must be formed within multivesicular bodies by inward budding, the MVB must merge with the plasma membrane, and finally the internal vesicles must be released.
By transmitting their molecules, such as proteins, messenger RNA (mRNA), and microRNAs (miRNAs), MSC exosomes stimulate phenotypic changes and subsequently modify regenerative programs of target organs. A number of mechanisms are involved in phenotypic alterations, including prevention of apoptosis, cell proliferation, immunomodulatory reactions, attenuation of oxidative stress, and improving oxygen supply to recipient cells. By supporting mitochondrial transfer, MSC-exosomes can suppress inflammatory cytokine production and induce phenotype 2 alveolar macrophages (M2), leading to acute lung injury (ALI) rescue. It has been demonstrated that the transmission of miRNAs from MSC-exosomes to recipient cells is responsible for the restoration of damaged kidneys, hearts, livers, and brains
Various cells continuously form and secrete exosomes, including lymphocytes, platelets, mast cells, intestinal epithelium, dendritic cells, neoplastic cell lines, microglia, neurons, and MSCs. Studies have shown that exosomes play an important role in cell-to-cell communication as well as several physiological and pathological processes. Despite their inherent biological activities, exosomes have recently been introduced as encouraging drug carriers because of their small size, high biocompatibility, and ability to hold different therapeutic ingredients, including proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. There have been reports showing the usefulness of MSCs-exosomes for treating a variety of ailments, such as lung, kidney, liver, neurodegenerative, cardiac, and musculoskeletal diseases, as well as skin wounds in vivo.
As well as their remarkable therapeutic effects, MSC-EVs derived from diverse sources also possess a variety of physiological functions that may affect their therapeutic application. In a wide range of human disorders, MSC-exosomes are considered an effective alternative to whole-cell therapy because of their low immunogenicity and improved safety profile. Although MSC-exosome applications still face various challenges, their benefits and capabilities are attracting increasing interest.
To learn more about stem cells, exosomes and keep up to date with all the information about regenerative medicine and its advances, sign up for our international certification in regenerative medicine at www.issca.us
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