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Health

Stem cell therapy reduces symptoms of progressive MS for some people

After experimental stem cell therapy, people who required assistance walking due to symptoms of progressive multiple sclerosis saw their mobility improve

By Grace Wade

19 May 2023

Nerve cell trauma response. Fluorescent light micrograph of a section through a spinal cord affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). Reactive glial stem cells are producing the protein GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein, green) and OLIG2 (oligodendrocyte lineage transcription factor 2, red) in an attempt to repair the damaged nerve cells. Cell nuclei are dyed blue. MS is an autoimmune condition, in which the immune system attacks nerve cells, impairing their ability to relay signals efficiently.

Multiple sclerosis causes damage to nerve cells that can lead to serious issues with memory and mobility

RICCARDO CASSIANI-INGONI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

An experimental stem cell therapy may reduce some symptoms of progressive multiple sclerosis, primarily in people with severe disability from the disease.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition in which the immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord, causing difficulties with walking, memory, bladder control and other bodily functions. When symptoms gradually worsen over time, it is called progressive MS.

There is no approved treatment for progressive MS, but a few small…

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