Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disease that causes an inability to execute motions owing to a lack of muscular coordination or excessive muscular stiffness. Cerebral Palsy does not become worse with time (non-progressive). However, as the kid develops, the limb or portion linked with the injured portion may suffer a gradual loss of function. These areas of the body may not develop as much as the rest of the body.
For children with cerebral palsy, stem cell therapy is a potential therapeutic option. However, this therapy is still in its early stages, and further study is needed. Clinical studies of this treatment are under underway in Georgia and Texas.
What Are Stem Cells and How Do They Work?
Stem cells are primordial cells with the capacity to differentiate into many cell types and, as a result, create various tissues. There are two kinds of stem cells: adipose stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells.
Adult Stem Cells (ASCs)
Adult stem cells are present in fully developed individuals and are capable of providing new cells to heal damaged tissues.
Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) are stem cells derived from embryos.
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are stem cells that form during the early stages of development. ESCs form in the blastocyst mass and may spread and expand into a variety of cell types.
What is a Stem Cell Transplant for Cerebral Palsy Children?
A physician injects stem cells into a kid either intravenously, via a vein, or intrathecally, through a lumbar puncture into the spinal column, during a stem cell transplant.
The goal is for the stem cells to mature into nerve cells capable of forming connections with other cells.
Additionally, after the cells have formed connections with other cells, they must be able to communicate with the muscles that govern movement. The effectiveness of the therapy hinges on this development.
After stem cell treatment, physical rehabilitation is nearly always recommended. While medical experts say it’s impossible to say whether stem cell treatment or physical therapy is more beneficial, combining the two offers the kid the greatest chance of success.
Learn More About Cerebral Palsy Through Stem Cell Research
Pluripotent stem cells, such as embryonic stem cells, are being researched and utilised to generate many kinds of brain cells. These cells may be useful in learning more about how cerebral palsy operates. As a result, medical experts are looking for new and better treatment options.
Drugs to Help Target Children’s Brain Stem Cells
Medication that may promote the creation of new stem cells in the body is also being studied. The child’s own stem cells would be utilised to mend their damaged tissues in this kind of therapy. This study is now in the clinical trial stage, which means the researchers are trying to figure out whether the treatment is safe for all patients.