Stem Cell Therapy for Autism: What Do We Know?

Stem cell therapy for autism is the first real ray of hope to come out of the field in several years. Research papers are now showing up in professional journals, and parents are beginning to push their doctors to provide treatment. Autism spectrum disorder affects between 1-2% of the population. Treatment for autism is becoming an increasingly sought-after medical research.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs)

ASDs are developmental disabilities that cause widespread impairments in several areas of development, including social interaction and communication. Although symptoms often appear before a child is three years old, the diagnosis is not made until symptoms last at least six months and cause significant functional impairment. ASDs can be accompanied by a wide range of symptoms including impaired social interaction, abnormal communication, and repetitive behaviors or restricted interests.

Stem cell therapy in autism: recent insights

The stem cell therapy for autism research uses the power of stem cells to potentially treat many neurological symptoms and cognitive issues associated with autism.Stem cells for autism represent an intriguing treatment approach. Stem cells from the umbilical cord blood have been studied for the potential to generate new blood vessel growth in the brain. Mesenchymal stem cells like that of the umbilical cord tissue may improve the immune de-regulation of autism. These stem cells are believed to assist with intestinal symptoms and cognitive issues. Though in the early stages of research, clinical data has shown promising progress into stem cell therapy for autism.

How stem cell therapy can help autism

Stem cells appear to be promising in replacing malfunctioning cells of the gut with health ones. There has also been evidence that these stem cells can replace and repair brain cells, enzymes and hormone production systems, and reduce inflammation.

Although research is still being done to fully understand how individuals with autism can benefit from stem cell therapy, it is clear that the cellular mechanism of stem cells can gravitate towards affected areas to repair malfunctioning systems.

How close are we to this treatment for autism

The medical community has take a strong interest into understanding the complexity of both autism and stem cell research. The research community has been facilitating clinical trials. The stories of the power of stem cells have aided in research institutions to conduct trials to determine how to treat autism in the future. Dr. Joanne Kurtzberg of Duke University Medical Center is currently conducting clinical trials to evaluate how umbilical cord blood cells may improve autism symptoms.