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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Applications of Exosomes in Regenerative Medicine
In recent years, the application of exosomes in regenerative medicine has been growing. Also, many more potential applications of exosomes in regenerative medicine are still being studied.
In this article, you’ll learn the functions of exosomes and up-to-date applications of exosomes in regenerative medicine.
What are exosomes?
Exosomes are tiny vesicles that play a crucial role in cell to cell communication. Every cell in our body produces exosomes, to give information to the neighboring cells or long-distance cells, to change their behavior or to simply share information.
They transfer genetic information, proteins, and receptors, and they are capable of changing the behavior of one cell to the other. They have the ability to increase cell replication and other substances crucial for tissue regeneration.
Functions of exosomes
The major function of exosomes is to improve intercellular communication by releasing effectors and signaling molecules between cells.
Every cell in our body produces exosomes, to give information to the neighboring cells, or long distance cells, to change their behavior or to simply share information.
They transfer genetic information, proteins, and receptors, and are capable of changing the behavior of one cell to the other. They can increase cell replication and other substances crucial for tissue regeneration.
Exosomes affect all aspects of cell biology and are useful for improving intercellular communication.
Various applications of exosomes in regenerative medicine.
Exosomes have various clinical applications due to their high potency, reduced immunogenicity, and ability to cross physiological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier.
In regenerative medicine, exosomes can be used in a point of care environment for a lot of aesthetic and therapeutic purposes.
The Use of Exosomes in Hair therapy
Exosomes can be used in the early stages of hair loss to re-grow and regenerate hair.
The good thing about using exosomes for hair loss is that they can be used in both men and women.
Exosomes can help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss. Clinical results have also shown the efficacy of exosomes in alopecia areata.
Exosomes from follicular stem cells are said to inhibit hair loss and promote hair growth.
In the earlier stages of hair loss, hair can be regrown and regenerated in men and women by administering exosomes and growth factors.
After the first round of exosome therapy, noticeable change can be seen in 2 or 3 months but the most significant changes start from 6 to 12 months.
The Use of Exosomes in Skin-Regeneration
There are so many research and clinical trials surrounding the application of exosomes in skin treatment.
The benefits of exosome therapy in skin regeneration because of their ability to directly stimulate target cells, non-immune rejection and high stability.
These are some of the abilities of exosomes in skin regeneration:
- Regulation of inflammation
- Synthesis of collagen
- Angiogenic effect
The Anti-aging effect of exosomes
Exosomes can be used to restore aging tissues of the body due to their outstanding regenerative ability.
Signs of aging manifest due to the skin’s inability to regenerate itself, exosomes can help to maintain the skin’s elasticity and strength.
Exosome therapy is changing the approach to anti-aging treatment. The rejuvenation capability of exosomes is a great way to make your patients feel young again.
It revitalizes senescent cells by repairing damage due to aging.
With exosomes, you are improving longevity by reversing the cells that are dying due to aging.
Exosomes in Pain management
Exosome therapy can be used to relieve pain by subduing pain signals, reducing inflammation and repairing damaged tissues.
The application of Exosome in inflammatory conditions.
Exosomes can decrease inflammation, regenerate cells and modulate the immune system.
Osteoarthritis: MSC-derived exosomes can reduce the joint inflammation in osteoarthritis and also stimulates cartilage regeneration and the repair of damaged tissues.
Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the inflammation of tendons. Exosomes can reduce the inflammation associated with tendinitis and repair torn tendons and muscles.
Due to the potency of exosomes and its paracrine effect, the potential capabilities of exosomes are still being discovered and studied.
At Cellgenic, we prepare easy to transport and administer Lyophilized exosomes, suitable for use in regenerative medicine.
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ISSCA Members to Present in the XXV Congreso Internacional de Medicina, Cirugia Estética y Obesidad
The XXV Congreso Internacional de Medicina, Cirugia Estética y Obesidad will take place in CDMX, México on July 13,14 and 15, 2022. The International Society for Stem Cell Application (ISSCA) will be actively taking part in the congress. The ISSCA is a multidisciplinary community of physicians and scientists with a mission to advance the science, technology, and practice of regenerative medicine to treat diseases and lessen human suffering through science, technology, and regenerative medicine. Several ISSCA members will be presenting or giving demonstrations on the latest protocols and technologies in regenerative medicine.
- Benito Novas, the managing director of the ISSCA from the USA, will give a talk about Digital Marketing in Cash-Based Practices. Benito Novas is a global entrepreneur, manager, and keynote speaker, who specializes in marketing focused on biotechnology, life sciences, and healthcare development. He has served as the director of the ISSCA since 2016. His published books in Aesthetic Practice and Digital Marketing can be found here. In his presentation this July, he will share his visionary approach to healthcare management and regenerative medicine. Congress attendees will have the opportunity to learn why doctors must use digital marketing strategies to grow a successful practice. Benito Novas will provide tips to attendees on how to capitalize on social media trends to grow practice influence.
- Dr. Maritza Novas, the ISSCA director of education from the USA, will talk about Allogeneic Therapies and Stromal Cell Exosomes. The use of allogeneic therapy is one of the most attractive alternatives to autologous products and is of utmost interest to researchers in recent years. Exosomes serve as mediators for cell-to-cell communication and can be used as cell-free therapeutics for their special characteristics. Dr. Maritza Novas has been in aesthetic and anti-aging medicine since 2001. She is globally recognized for her work in regenerative medicine and dedicated service in education.
- Dr. Silvina Pastrana, the Argentina chapter director of the ISSCA from Argentina, will present on Fundamentals of Cellular Therapies and Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC). Dr. Pastrana heads a staff of medical specialists in orthopedics, rheumatology, medical clinic, and cosmetic surgery, performing procedures that incorporate stem cell therapies. She has been serving as a staff surgeon for the Hospital Dr. Prof. Luis Güemes for 21 years.
Besides the above presentations, look forward to sessions in the practical portion of the congress, where the following ISSCA members will show the latest protocols and technologies in regenerative medicine:
- Dr. Julio Ferreira (Argentina), Cosmetic Surgery / Aesthetic Medicine
- Dr. Andrea Lapeire (Argentina), Aesthetic Medicine
- Dr. Maritza Novas (USA), ISSCA Director of Education in the USA
- Dr. Silvina Pastrana (Argentina), Chapter Director of ISSCA in Argentina
The ISSCA members are the leaders in setting standards and promoting excellence in the field of regenerative medicine, related education, certification, research, and publications. The Global Stem Cells Groups (GSCG) is a group of companies, including the ISSCA and other members, dedicated to facilitating stem cell research and medicine. Making the benefits of stem cell medicine a reality for both doctors and patients worldwide is the goal of the GSCG. To learn more, visit our sites at the ISSCA and the GSCG.
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How much does exosome therapy cost?
Exosome therapy is the new buzz in the regenerative medicine industry because of how it can repair and regenerate your cells and tissues.
Exosome therapy is safer compared to other cellular therapy because it’s a cell-free therapy with no risk of rejection.
Exosome therapy will be beneficial to you if you’re dealing with conditions such as sport injuries, tissue regeneration, hair loss, erectile dysfunction, chronic pain and so many other applications .
In this article, you’ll be learning the cost of exosome therapy and how you can benefit from exosome therapy.
How the cost of exosome therapy is determined
All cells produce exosomes, which are microvesicles that contain biochemical and genetic information.
Hence, the cost of an exosome product (used in exosome therapy) will depend on what type of cell line (raw tissue source) used to extract the exosomes.
The first factor to determine the cost of an exosome product depends on the quality of the tissue source.
The most commonly used tissue types are cord blood, amniotic fluid and mesenchymal cell cultures.
Exosomes derived from mesenchymal cell cultures are the most difficult to obtain but offer the greatest therapeutic potential.
How much does exosome therapy cost?
The average cost of exosome therapy is $4,900, but the price can be anything from $3,500 – $6,500.
It’s also important to note that the price depends on your specific needs and your treatment plan, as decided by the doctor.
The doctor will schedule a consultation with you to determine your personalized treatment plan.
The exosome therapy can either be given as an IV infusion or as localized injections, depending on the purpose of the therapy.
Exosomes are very useful to revitalize, rejuvenate, restore, and reduce inflammations in the body.
Here are some ways you can benefit from exosome therapy
Hair loss therapy: If you’re in the early stages of hair loss, with exosome therapy you can regenerate your hair whether you’re a man or woman. After exosome therapy, you’ll start seeing new hair growth in as little as two to three months with very significant results showing 6 months or 1 year later.
Chronic pain: In case you’re experiencing chronic pain due to degenerative conditions such as arthritis, exosomes can help to subdue the pain by regenerating the cells and helping the body work better.
Degenerative conditions: If you’re struggling with degenerative medical conditions such as osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal injuries, exosome therapy can help your body repair the damage done to your cells by these conditions, prevent them from getting better, and help you to feel better.
Skin therapy: exosome therapy can reduce inflammation in the skin by improving the strength and elasticity of the skin.
Anti-aging: if you would like to retain your youthful glow, exosome therapy can make you feel young again by rejuvenating your skin due to its ability to reverse the cells dying due to aging.
Where can you get exosome therapy?
Cellular hope institutes provide exosome therapy for patients looking for better outcomes for various conditions.
The exosomes used at Cellular Hope Institute are obtained from umbilical cord tissue that is discarded after a new birth , which means these Exosomes have not been exposed to any contaminating or toxic agent because our cells are as healthy as our body. This gives it a higher capacity to regenerate your cells and tissues.
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Culture Expanded MSCs
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are the most commonly used cells in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine, due to their high and multi-potency. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) can be isolated from different tissues in the body.
In this article, you’ll be learning about culture-expanded MSCs, how MSCs can be expanded, The potency of MSCs and the type of cells they can differentiate into.
What are culture expanded Mesenchymal Stem cells?
Mesenchymal stem cells are high potent cells used for cellular therapy and isolated from different parts of the body. Mesenchymal stem cells can be used to improve the patient outcome in diseases and conditions such as autoimmune diseases, degenerative diseases, nerve damage, diabetes mellitus, bone problems etc.
For every patient, millions of mesenchymal stem cells are needed and the exact amount varies according to disease, route of administration, administration frequency, weight, and age of patient.
Mesenchymal stem cells are expanded in a culture media, on a large scale in order to obtain the required quantity of cells needed for cellular therapy.
Culture expanded MSCs: How does it work?
Expanding Mesenchymal stem cells in a media involves step by step process of isolation and expansion.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolation
Mesenchymal stem cells can be isolated from different tissues in the human body such as adipose tissues, dental pulp, human bone marrow, umbilical cord tissue, umbilical cord blood, peripheral blood and synovium.
Mesenchymal stem cells are expanded in culture to increase their yield and amplify their desired functions and potency.
Although the population of Mesenchymal Stem Cells obtained will vary from donor to donor, here are some steps to follow:
· Acquire fresh tissue extracts in strictly aseptic conditions, to maintain purity.
· To remove any cell clusters, you have to filter the cell suspension with a 70-mm filter mesh
· Use a centrifuge to roll the cells for about 5 minutes at 500g
· Suspend the cells again the cells to measure the cell viability and yield using Trypan blue exclusion
· Use in T75 culture dishes to culture the cells in 10 mL of complete MSC medium at a density of 25 × 106 cells/mL. You can then go on to Incubate the plates at 37 °C with 5% CO2 in a humidified chamber without any interruption.
· When it’s past 3 h, remove the non-adherent cells that accumulate on the surface of the dish by changing the medium and replacing it with 10 mL fresh complete medium.
· After an additional 8 h of culture, add 10ml fresh complete medium as a replacement for the existing medium. You’ll have to repeat this step every 8 h for up to 72 h of initial culture.
· Cells can be frozen in MSC growth media plus 10% DMSO (D2650) at a density of 2X106 cells/vial.
Expansion of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a culture media
Culture expanded mesenchymal cells undergo various stages from the preparation of the culture plate, thawing of Mesenchymal stem cells, and the actual expansion of Mesenchymal stem cells.
The reason behind the cultural expansion of Mesenchymal stem cells is to get them to differentiate into other cell types such as osteoblast, adipocyte, and mesenchymal stromal cells.
In preparation, to expand MSCs in a culture media, you need a culture ware. You can get one plastic or glassware plate and coat it with a sufficient amount of 0.1% gelatin. Don’t forget to aspirate the gelatin solution from the coated plate or flask before you use it.
The next step involves the thawing of the Mesenchymal stem cells, and here are a few steps for you to follow:
After the recommended culture medium and coated culture ware is ready and on standby, remove the vial of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from liquid nitrogen and incubate in a 37C water bath and pay close attention to it, until all the cells are completely thawed. The extent of completely thawed frozen cells and how fast, are what determines the cell viability.
Once the cells have thawed completely, take steps to avoid contamination by disinfecting the walls with 70% ethanol, before you proceed to the next step.
Place the cells in a hood, and carefully transfer the cells to a sterile tube with a pipette (1 or 2ml pipette), Do this in such a way to prevent bubbles.
Then, add drops of Mesenchymal Stem cell expansion medium that have been pre-warmed to 37C to the tube containing the Mesenchymal stem cells.
Be careful to take your time when adding the medium to avoid osmotic shock which could lead to decreased viability.
Proceed to mix the suspension slowly by pipetting up and down two times while avoiding any bubbles.
Place the tube in a centrifuge and centrifuge the tube at 300 x g for 2-3 minutes to roll the cells, and you should not vortex the cells.
After this, then decant as much of the supernatant as possible. These steps are necessary to remove residual cryopreservative (DMSO).
Suspend the cells in a total volume of 10 mL of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Expansion Medium again or any alternative of choice, pre-warmed to 37 °C, containing freshly added 8 ng/mL FGF-2 (F0291).
The next step involves placing the cell suspension onto a 10-cm tissue culture plate or a T75 tissue culture flask.
Maintain the cells in a humidified incubator at 37 °C with 5% CO2.
The next day, exchange the medium with fresh Mesenchymal Stem Cell Expansion Medium (pre-warmed to 37 °C) containing 8 ng/mL FGF-2*. Replace with fresh medium containing FGF-2 every two to three days thereafter.
Isolate the cells when they are approximately 80% confluent, using Trypsin-EDTA and passaged further or frozen for later use.
Expansion of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Once the cells are actively proliferating and have reached a confluence of approximately 80% (before 100%), you should subculture the cells.
Then remove the medium from the 10-cm tissue culture plate containing the confluent layer of human mesenchymal stem cells, carefully and apply 3-5 mL of Trypsin-EDTA Solution, before proceeding to incubate in a 37 °C incubator for 3-5 minutes.
Crosscheck the culture to see if all the cells are completely detached. Then, add 5 mL Mesenchymal Stem Cell Expansion Medium to the plate.
Swirl the plate mildly to mix the cell suspension. Transfer the separated/isolated cells to a 15 mL conical tube.
Centrifuge the tube at 300 x g for 3-5 minutes to pellet the cells.
Throw the supernatant away and apply 2 mL Mesenchymal Stem Cell Expansion Medium (pre-warmed to 37 °C) containing 8 ng/mL FGF-2 to the conical tube and completely suspend the cells again. Remember not to vortex the cells.
Then, use a hemocytometer to count the number of cells.
Plate the cells at a density of 5,000-6,000 cells per cm2 into the appropriate flasks, plates, or wells in a Mesenchymal Stem Cell Expansion Medium containing 8 ng/mL FGF-2.
Cells can be frozen in MSC growth media plus 10% DMSO (D2650) at a density of 2X106 cells/vial.
Functions of Culture Expanded MSCs
Mesenchymal stem cells are required to be expanded in order for them to be used clinically for therapeutic purposes.
The culture expanded MSCs can be induced to differentiate into adipocytes, osteocytes, hepatocytes, chondrocytes, tenocytes and cardiomyocytes.
Because of its potential to differentiate into different kinds of cells in the body, it can be used to manage liver problems, heart problems, joint and bone problems etc.
Mesenchymal stem cells are also used in tissue regeneration and modulation of the immune system. They possess anti apoptotic, angiogenic, anti fibrotic, and anti-oxidative properties.
However, the quantity of MSCs isolated from body tissues is not enough for clinical and therapeutic applications.
This is why MSCs are expanded in culture to increase their yield for desired therapeutic effect.
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Why cellular therapies have become a standard in clinics that are betting on biological medicine
Cellular therapy is fast becoming a standard therapy in many regenerative clinics today. Many doctors are no longer questioning the safety and effectiveness of stem cell therapy. This is because various stem cell studies are already describing the benefits of stem cells for patients who are living with chronic and autoimmune health conditions.
This article will be talking about why stem cell therapy have become a standard therapy in clinics, the paracrine effect of stem cells, and other reasons why doctors are adopting stem cells in their clinics.
Benefits of stem cell therapy
Stem cell therapy is an important innovation in medicine because of its regenerative power in the human body. Most disease states are characterized by damaged cells, tissues and organs, which is where stem cell therapy comes in. In stem cell therapy, stem cells are administered into the human body and it replaces the cells damaged by disease or health disorders.
Stem cell research has revealed two major ways of using stem cells to rebuild defective and damaged cells. One of these ways can be seen in procedures like bone marrow transplant, where stem cells are used to replace the damaged cells by engraving, and they then differentiate into the proper cell type. Another mechanism relies on the paracrine effect of stem cells. This procedure of stem cell therapy involves using stem cells isolated from a donor to stimulate the patient’s cells to repair damaged tissues.
Additionally, unlike traditional therapy, stem cells have a wide application. Stem cell therapy is used to manage various degenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, birth defects, and the research is still ongoing for so many other health conditions where stem cells have shown potential.
Also, there is currently a high demand for aesthetic medicine. Stem cell therapy is a proven alternative to other forms of cosmetology such as plastic surgery. Hence, dermatologists are turning to stem cell therapy to administer anti-aging procedures, skin rejuvenation, hair therapy, micro-needling etc.
The Paracrine effect of stem cells
The paracrine effect of stem cells is one of the most outstanding effects of stem cells. It involves using donor cells to stimulate endogenous repair by harnessing the regenerative power of the human body. It is a mechanism of tissue regeneration that has created new possibilities for managing various conditions using stem cell therapy.
The cells that trigger a paracrine response are; mesenchymal cells, umbilical cord blood, umbilical cord tissue, adipose (fat) tissue and blood cells from a donor’s bone marrow.
The paracrine effect occurs when the donor’s cells send the damaged or defective cells signals to induce self regeneration and repair by secreting some factors and proteins. One of the mechanism by which this paracrine effect is initiated, involves the secretion of cytokines and regulatory proteins by the damaged patient’s cells, these cytokines and proteins act as mediators to stimulate an immune response that attracts the donor cells, this causes the donor cells to release proteins and factors that stimulate the patient’s cells to promote cell proliferation, increase vascularization and blood flow to the areas that needs to heal, while reducing inflammation.
Moreover, research has shown that the paracrine effect of stem cells prevents damaged and diseased cells from dying. They are also therapeutically useful in autoimmune diseases and preventing transplant rejection due to the immune suppression effect they have.
Is stem cell therapy effective?
Doctors are always looking for ways to provide the best possible treatment to their patients, and that is why many clinics are embracing stem cell therapy as a standard, due to its many advantages.
Stem cell therapy is one of the most effective and safest therapy patients can receive, when compared to other existing treatment options. Stem cell therapy is used in promoting patient outcomes in a lot of disease conditions that were previously poorly treated by other alternatives.
Again, as new potentials and ways of applying stem cells are being discovered, doctors are beginning to maximize these benefits in their clinics. Some conditions that are currently treated by stem cells include autoimmune conditions, immunotherapy Car-T cells, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, neurodegenerative conditions, osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury, aesthetics/anti-aging, sports medicine, autism and multiple sclerosis.
Another reason clinics are adopting stem cell therapy as a standard therapy is because it is easy to administer. A lot of machines such as GCELL which makes the harvesting and processing of stem cells easy and fast, have made the procedures easily adaptable by doctors.
Furthermore, stem cell therapy reduces the treatment and recovery time associated with surgical procedures and other treatment options. This alone is a big factor in why stem cells are becoming a standard therapy in clinics.
Therapeutic uses of stem cells vs traditional medicine
Existing stem cell research has shown how the regenerative effect of stem cells is defining the future of medicine. The major advantage of stem cell therapy over conventional medication-based therapy is its safety. Stem cell therapy is aimed at treating the cause of the disease while traditional medicine targets the symptoms.
Another problem with traditional medical therapy is that it introduces another problem while trying to solve the existing one. As a doctor, you always run the risk of causing harm with each prescription because of various adverse effects that could lead to major organ damage of the kidney, liver etc. On the other hand, patients already know this and they are actively seeking better alternatives, this is why stem cell therapy is fast becoming a standard therapy in clinics.
Moreover, doctors will always be concerned about whether their patients are taking their medications or not. The burden of drug compliance and adherence associated with traditional medical therapy is not always easy to navigate. This is why effective treatment options like stem cell therapy have become a standard therapy in clinics. It only requires the patients having a procedure that repairs and restores damaged cells and tissues in the most natural way.
If you would like to become certified in regenerative medicine using stem cells and other cellular therapy, contact us.
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Wharton’s Jelly injection
Wharton’s Jelly injection
Wharton’s Jelly is the gelatinous connective tissue that is found in the umbilical cord. This once discarded substance that was once thought of as after birth waste, is chocked full of healing substances and abundant in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
The mesenchymal stem cells that are found in Wharton’s Jelly are special in that they are not readily recognized by the body’s immune system. They are considered “primitive cells,” meaning they contain similar properties to embryonic cells. This means that when mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wharton’s Jelly are injected into the patient, there is a reduced risk they will have an immune reaction to the cells.
Minimally processed Wharton’s Jelly preserves the growth factors and proteins needed for effective healing.
Who can benefit from Wharton’s Jelly Treatment?
Wharton’s Jelly is a component used in regenerative medicine, that is medicine that uses naturally occurring cells and substances to promote regeneration of tissue and healthy cells. This natural substance contains collagen, anti-inflammatory properties, growth protein as well as hyaluronic acid.
This means that treatment with Wharton’s Jelly can help with a variety of ailments including degenerative diseases, osteoarthritis, ligament and muscle damage, joint pain and inflammation, chronic pain, as well as promote wound healing.
There are no age restrictions on who can receive this treatment and oftentimes a patient will only need treatment once.
How does Wharton’s Jelly Treatment Work?
A specialized, minimally processed product derived from the Wharton’s Jelly is injected into the injured site. While numbing is not always needed, at times lidocaine will be used for particularly sensitive areas. This process is a relatively painless pinch of a needle. Once the Wharton’s Jelly substance is injected, the cells get to work. The mesenchymal stem cells begin to transform into the cells that are needed to regenerate damaged tissue. This inturn reduces inflammation and pain and returns functionality to the body.
Are there Any Side Effects to the Treatment?
No long-term risks or side effects have been reported. It is important to talk with your doctor about proper protocols around treatment.
Reasons to Undergo Cellular Therapy in Cancun, Mexico with us
Chief among the many advantages that come with receiving your cellular therapy treatment in Mexico, there is the possibility to cultivate and reproduce, in a laboratory environment, those cells which have been extracted from patients. That is to say that a patient can be administered a much larger concentration of cells, which leads to improved results.
Additionally, Mexico is a wonderful option for those treatments that require a more invasive approach– a larger operating team, more medical products and PPE. Mexico is one of the Western Hemisphere’s largest medical tourism capitals, which means that treatments there are performed in hospitals that comply with FDA regulations, and are offered at a more affordable price point.
One can imagine that these types of treatments require a large investment on the side of the patient, however, the cost of a multiple-day cellular therapy treatment in Mexico, is far more affordable than the same treatment– that is, without the ability to use culture-expanded cells, in the United States and Canada.
What is the Recovery Period?
The actual injection will not cause the need for a recovery period. Most patients can go right back to their normal day activities. In cases of injury to ligaments or joints, rest of the injury may be required. Please follow your doctor’s advice for best results from treatment.
Overall Wharton’s Jelly injection treatment is minimally invasive and can help with a variety of ailments. With it’s limited side effects and regenerative properties, it is safe for patients of any age.
Talk with your us to see if Wharton’s Jelly injection therapy is the right fit for you (Clic here)
Cellular Hope Institute
At Cellular Hope Institute, we evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients around the world on a daily basis, with the latest regenerative medicine modalities available today.
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Wharton’s Jelly – how does it work?
Wharton’s Jelly Treatment
Wharton’s Jelly is the substance that helps lubricate and support the umbilical cord. What makes Wharton’s Jelly so special is it contains high levels of mesenchymal stem cells. These special stem cells adapt to fit the cells needed to help regenerate damaged tissue and relieve pain naturally.
The mesenchymal stem cells that come from Wharton’s Jelly contain the most potent stem cells that are rich in regenerative properties. Wharton’s Jelly also contains a good amount of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes them quintessential in regenerative medicine.
Regenerative medicine refers to treatments and medicine that is naturally occuring, stem cell therapies being included. Mesenchymal stem cells are harvested from the Wharton Jelly found in the umbilical cord that has been donated by a healthy mother of a full term baby. These stem cells contain all the regenerative properties needed to help the body heal and relieve pain naturally.
How does this treatment work?
Mesenchymal stem cells are injected into the body and have the ability to transmute into cells that are needed to repair damaged tissue and relieve inflammation. These cells harness the potent regenerative properties that help rebuild the injured part of the body and provide long lasting natural pain relief. Unlike pain medicines which provide temporary relief that mask the symptoms and are harmful to the body if taken long term, the stem cells found in Wharton’s Jelly are naturally occurring and natural to the body.
What is Wharton’s Jelly best used for?
Wharton’s Jelly is best used in patients with degenerative diseases and musculoskeletal injuries. The anti-inflamatory and regenerative properties go to work at repairing damaged tissues. Repaired tissue means lasting pain relief and restored function.
What can someone expect?
Once a patient and doctor have decided on this type of stem cell treatment, patients can expect a relatively painless process. Stem cells are injected into the site and immediately go to work. Injections are virtually painless and there are no known negative side effects. Patients can generally get right back to the activities they love. Doctors will discuss treatment plans based on individual needs and in some cases resting an injured area for a particular period of time will be needed.
The mesenchymal stem cells found in Whorton’s Jelly have proven to be a very successful therapeutic method to treat a number of degenerative issues and injuries. This therapy is relatively painless, with no known negative side effects making it an excellent choice in treatment. Instead of masking the pain with dangerous medicine, stem cell therapy offers a naturally occurring solution that aims to repair the damaged tissue and resolve the problem.
If you want to learn more about Wharton’s Jelly Treatment and how can you help your patients, you can check our next training course here
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Exosomes: Everything you need to know about this new therapy
Exosomes: everything you need to know about this new therapy
Stem cell-derived exosome therapy is an effective and safe way to relieve chronic pain, leaving behind the need for invasive treatments, such as surgery or drugs with undesirable side effects.
What is exosome therapy?
Normally our cells release substances through envelope-like structures called vesicles. Exosomes are a type of vesicle produced especially by stem cells (mesenchymal cells).
In essence, these small messengers transport crucial molecules or substances, such as signaling proteins or genetic information from one cell to another in order to modulate or generate a response.
The aim of these vesicles is to enhance nerve signaling between cells to reduce the inflammatory response, while at the same time stimulating cell regeneration and modifying immune reactions to pathogens and other diseases.
Why do exosomes relieve pain and inflammation?
With aging, our reparative cells lose some of their ability to respond. Some environmental factors, genetic alterations, or chronic diseases, such as autoimmune disorders and Lyme disease can also interfere with or alter signaling between cells, leaving them unable to mediate inflammation and repair injured tissues.
The main goal of exosome therapy is to modulate both T cells and NK cells in the immune system. Both cells are critical for a balanced immune response, but when that balance is lost for multiple reasons, the result is often an immune imbalance that causes pain and chronic inflammation that is difficult to manage.
These vesicles work by regulating the activity of these cells. For example, when a joint is affected, exosomes are responsible for sending regulatory signals only to the altered cells to restore their normal function.
Therefore, exosomes play a leading role in the regulation and repair of damaged cells and tissues.
What does this new therapy consist of?
The exosomes are administered through an injectable solution that is applied to the affected area. In a single milliliter of solution, there can be between one and 16 billion exosomes. The dosage will depend on the patient’s needs and the therapeutic plan elaborated by the specialist.
Advantages of exosome therapy:
- The entire process occurs on an outpatient basis.
- It is not invasive, nor does it require anesthesia.
- It does not require previous preparations or a long period of inactivity for recovery.
- As it is a substance identical to the biological ones, it does not generate adverse reactions.
However, after treatment, it is necessary to avoid anti-inflammatory drugs, high-impact activities, or cardiovascular exercise for at least the first two weeks.
The results of the therapy depend on the patient’s age, condition, and severity of the condition. As we age our body deteriorates and responds slowly to signals from the cells, therefore in some cases the results are not immediate and several sessions may be necessary to achieve a noticeable improvement.
Where can I receive treatment with exosomes?
Currently, regenerative medicine is already being applied in different parts of the world.
In some places, the intervention and any other regenerative medicine procedure are certainly more cost-effective.
At Cellular Hope Institute we perform exosome and stem cell therapy in Cancun, Mexico. One of the most affordable and cost-effective locations for patients.
Our team will help you with:
- Scheduling therapy dates.
- Booking airline tickets.
- Providing hotel recommendations: many hotels are located next to the hospital.
- Arranging door-to-door transportation during your stay in Cancun, including assistance from and to the airport, hotel, hospital, and anywhere else you would like to go during your stay.
- Accompanying you from and to the hospital and answering any questions along the way.
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