A new preclinical study in an animal model found that stem cells and stem cell-derived exosomes may benefit those living with multiple sclerosis. The study found exomes as a promising emerging therapy with a better safety profile.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease characterized by the progressive destruction of myelin. This demyelination leads to impaired nerve function and can result in a range of neurological symptoms. The exact cause of MS is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response targeting the myelin sheath.
In recent years, regenerative therapies have emerged as potential treatments for MS, offering hope for repairing damaged neurons and reversing disease progression. This preclinical study published in BMC Veterinary Research explored the role of stem cell therapy and stem cell-derived exosomes in managing MS.
Both Stem Cells and Exosomes Show Promising Results in MS
The study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of stem cell therapy and exosome therapy in an experimental MS dog model. There was reason to believe these therapies would work, as both stem cells and exomes are an excellent source of micro-RNAs, enzymes, growth factors, proteins, peptides, lipids, and other bioactive molecules. In the study, 36 dogs were divided into three groups: a control group receiving saline, a group treated with autologous adipose-derived stem cells, and a group treated with stem cell-derived exosomes. MS was induced using ethidium bromide as a gliotoxin. Treatment began 14 days post-induction.
Clinical evaluation revealed improvements in gait and neurological function in both treatment groups compared to the control group. Magnetic resonance imaging showed reduced lesion size and resolution of spinal cord abnormalities in treated groups. The cerebrospinal fluid analysis demonstrated no biochemical changes post-treatment. Histopathological examination revealed evidence of remyelination and axonal regeneration in both treatment groups, with stem cell therapy showing superior outcomes. Electron microscopy confirmed active remyelination and axonal regeneration in treated groups.
Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in gait between treatment groups and the control group, with stem cell therapy yielding better results. Both stem cell therapy and exosome therapy demonstrated therapeutic potential in treating MS, with stem cell therapy showing superior outcomes regarding neurological recovery and tissue regeneration.
The Bottom Line
Overall, these findings highlight the potential of regenerative therapies, including stem cell and exosome therapy, in the treatment of MS. While stem cell therapy offers direct cell replacement and secretion of trophic factors, exosome therapy provides a cell-free alternative with immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and translate these promising findings into effective clinical interventions for MS patients.
Source:
Abdallah, A. N., Shamaa, A., El‐Tookhy, O. S., & Bahr, M. M. (2024). Comparison between stem cell therapy and stem cell derived exosomes on induced multiple sclerosis in dogs. BMC Veterinary Research, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12917-024-03920-4
