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Battling Inflammation: Stem Cell Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis – Medical Tourism Magazine

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent inflammation, pain, and eventual destruction of the joints. Traditional treatments have focused on symptom management, slowing disease progression, and improving quality of life. However, with advancements in biotechnology and regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative, offering potential for not just managing but also reversing the effects of rheumatoid arthritis.

Stem cell therapy represents a revolutionary approach in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. At its core, this treatment utilizes the body's own healing mechanisms by employing stem cells - the body's raw materials from which all other cells with specialized functions are generated. In the context of RA, stem cells are believed to have the potential to develop into cartilage cells, reduce inflammation, and repair damaged tissues, offering hope for a disease-modifying effect.

The procedure for stem cell therapy in RA patients typically involves the extraction of stem cells from the patient's own body - often from the bone marrow or adipose tissue. These cells are then concentrated and re-injected into the affected joints or administered intravenously. The aim is to promote the regeneration of damaged cartilage, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes.

Patients seeking stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis may experience various benefits, including reduced joint pain and swelling, increased mobility, and a decrease in the reliance on traditional medications, which often come with significant side effects. However, it's crucial to note that stem cell therapy is still under research, and its efficacy varies from patient to patient. Moreover, being a relatively new treatment modality, it comes with its share of challenges, including regulatory approvals, ethical considerations, and cost implications.

The high cost and limited availability of stem cell therapy in certain countries have led many patients to explore options abroad, giving rise to a significant increase in medical tourism for rheumatoid arthritis treatments. Countries with advanced healthcare systems and relaxed regulations for stem cell treatments have become popular destinations for patients seeking these innovative therapies. Medical tourism not only provides access to cutting-edge treatments but also offers the opportunity for patients to combine their healthcare needs with the experience of traveling to a new country.

Choosing the right destination and clinic for stem cell therapy requires thorough research. Patients should look for clinics with a proven track record in regenerative medicine, experienced specialists, and robust patient support systems. It's also important to consider the legal and ethical standards of stem cell treatments in the host country, as well as the overall cost, including travel and accommodation expenses.

As research into stem cell therapy continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming the landscape of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Clinical trials and studies are ongoing to better understand the mechanisms, optimize treatment protocols, and establish long-term efficacy and safety profiles. The potential of stem cell therapy to offer a disease-modifying solution for RA could significantly alter the prognosis for millions of patients worldwide.

In conclusion, Stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis represents a frontier in the battle against chronic inflammation and joint degeneration. With its potential to repair damaged tissues and modulate the immune system, this innovative treatment is at the forefront of regenerative medicine. As the field continues to advance, it offers hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for RA patients. However, it's essential for individuals considering this treatment to conduct comprehensive research, seek reputable medical advice, and weigh the benefits against the risks and costs involved. The journey of medical tourism for stem cell therapy encapsulates the broader quest for healing, innovation, and a better future for those affected by rheumatoid arthritis.

Given his unparalleled expertise and success in treating elite athletes and high-profile individuals, we highly recommend Dr. Chad Prodromos for anyone seeking top-tier stem cell treatment. His work at the Prodromos Stem Cell Institute is at the forefront of regenerative medicine, offering innovative solutions for a range of conditions. To explore how Dr. Prodromos can assist in your health journey, consider reaching out through his clinic's website for more detailed information and to schedule a consultation. visit Prodromos Stem Cell Institute.

Disclaimer: The content provided in Medical Tourism Magazine (MedicalTourism.com) is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. We do not endorse or recommend any specific healthcare providers, facilities, treatments, or procedures mentioned in our articles. The views and opinions expressed by authors, contributors, or advertisers within the magazine are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of our company. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained in Medical Tourism Magazine (MedicalTourism.com) or the linked websites. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. We strongly advise readers to conduct their own research and consult with healthcare professionals before making any decisions related to medical tourism, healthcare providers, or medical procedures.

Joint Relief: Exploring Stem Cell Therapy for Osteoarthritis – Medical Tourism Magazine

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions worldwide, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the rubbery material that cushions bones at the joints. Traditional treatments have focused on pain management, lifestyle modifications, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions such as joint replacement. However, recent advancements in regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapy, have opened new doors for osteoarthritis treatment, offering hope for effective joint relief without the need for surgery.

Stem cell therapy involves using stem cells to repair or replace damaged tissues in the body. Stem cells have the unique ability to develop into different types of cells, making them a powerful tool in regenerative medicine. In the context of osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy aims to regenerate the damaged cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function.

The primary goal of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis is to promote the regeneration of cartilage, which does not naturally heal well on its own. The process typically involves harvesting stem cells from the patient's own bodyoften from the bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissueprocessing these cells, and then injecting them directly into the affected joint.

Research indicates that stem cells can secrete factors that reduce inflammation and slow down cartilage degeneration while potentially stimulating the growth of new cartilage. This dual action not only helps in alleviating pain but also works towards restoring joint mobility and improving the quality of life for patients.

Stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day. The process involves three main steps: stem cell extraction, cell processing, and reinjection into the affected joint. While the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery times can vary. Patients may experience some discomfort in the days following the injection, but significant improvements in joint function and pain reduction are often reported within weeks to months after the treatment.

While stem cell therapy is promising, it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and an understanding of the potential risks. These may include infection at the injection site, the possibility of an immune reaction, and the variability in treatment outcomes. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in regenerative medicine to determine if stem cell therapy is a suitable option for your specific condition.

As research continues, the potential for stem cell therapy in treating osteoarthritis looks increasingly promising. Ongoing clinical trials and studies aim to refine the technique, improve outcomes, and make the therapy more accessible to patients worldwide. With advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of stem cell biology, stem cell therapy may soon become a cornerstone in osteoarthritis treatment.

In conclusion, Stem cell therapy represents a frontier in the non-surgical treatment of osteoarthritis, offering new hope for millions suffering from joint pain and mobility issues. By harnessing the body's own regenerative capabilities, this innovative approach holds the potential to transform osteoarthritis management, making pain-free movement a reality for many. As with any medical treatment, it's essential to consult with healthcare professionals to explore the best options for your individual needs, ensuring a safe and effective path to joint relief.

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Joint Relief: Exploring Stem Cell Therapy for Osteoarthritis - Medical Tourism Magazine

Stem Cells and Autism: Understanding the Potential for Innovative Treatments – Medical Tourism Magazine

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. While traditional therapies have provided significant support to individuals with autism, researchers and clinicians are continuously exploring innovative approaches to address its underlying biological mechanisms and improve outcomes for affected individuals and their families.

In recent years, stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising avenue for the treatment of autism. Stem cells possess unique properties that enable them to differentiate into various cell types and contribute to tissue repair and regeneration. This inherent ability has sparked interest in utilizing stem cells to target the underlying biological abnormalities associated with autism.

Stem cells can be sourced from different tissues, including embryonic tissue, umbilical cord blood, and adult tissues such as bone marrow and adipose (fat) tissue. Each source offers distinct advantages and challenges, and researchers are actively investigating the most effective types of stem cells for autism treatment.

One of the key hypotheses underlying stem cell therapy for autism is the modulation of inflammation and immune dysregulation. Studies have suggested that individuals with autism may exhibit abnormalities in their immune response and inflammatory processes, which could contribute to the manifestation of symptoms. Stem cells have been shown to possess immunomodulatory properties, dampening excessive inflammation and promoting immune balance.

Moreover, stem cells may exert neuroprotective effects and support neuronal regeneration in the brain. Preclinical studies in animal models of autism have demonstrated improvements in behavior and neurological function following stem cell transplantation. These findings have laid the groundwork for clinical trials exploring the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy in humans with autism.

While the field of stem cell therapy for autism is still in its early stages, several clinical trials are underway to evaluate its potential benefits. These studies aim to assess the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of stem cell transplantation in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Preliminary results from early-phase clinical trials have shown promising outcomes, including improvements in social communication, language skills, and behavioral symptoms. However, larger-scale studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to establish the long-term safety and effectiveness of stem cell therapy for autism.

Despite the growing interest in stem cell therapy for autism, several challenges and considerations must be addressed. One challenge is the heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder, with individuals presenting a wide range of symptoms and underlying biological mechanisms. This diversity underscores the need for personalized treatment approaches tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

Additionally, ethical and regulatory considerations surrounding stem cell research and therapy must be carefully navigated. Ensuring the safety and ethical conduct of clinical trials is paramount to safeguarding the well-being of participants and upholding the integrity of scientific research.

As research in stem cell therapy for autism continues to advance, several avenues for future exploration and innovation are emerging. These include optimizing stem cell sources and delivery methods, refining treatment protocols, and integrating stem cell therapy with existing interventions to maximize therapeutic outcomes.

Furthermore, interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders is essential to drive progress in the field of autism treatment. By leveraging the collective expertise and resources across disciplines, we can accelerate the development of safe, effective, and accessible therapies for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

In conclusion, stem cell therapy holds significant promise as an innovative treatment approach for autism spectrum disorder. While challenges and uncertainties remain, ongoing research efforts are paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies that have the potential to transform the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

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Stem Cells and Autism: Understanding the Potential for Innovative Treatments - Medical Tourism Magazine

Top Stem Cell Clinics in the USA: Pioneering Treatments for Chronic Conditions – Medical Tourism Magazine

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

The landscape of medical treatment and patient care is experiencing a revolutionary shift thanks to the advancements in stem cell therapy. Across the United States, a number of clinics are leading the charge, offering innovative and pioneering treatments for a variety of chronic conditions. These clinics are not just medical facilities; they are beacons of hope for those who have exhausted traditional treatment options, presenting new avenues for healing and recovery.

Stem cell therapy represents one of the most exciting areas in regenerative medicine. By harnessing the body's own healing mechanisms, stem cell treatments have the potential to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and restore function in ways previously thought impossible. This therapy is being explored for a wide range of conditions, including, but not limited to, autoimmune diseases, neurological conditions, orthopedic injuries, and cardiovascular diseases.

The top stem cell clinics in the USA are distinguished by their commitment to research, patient safety, and the application of the latest scientific advancements. These centers are staffed by teams of experts who specialize in regenerative medicine, working tirelessly to not only treat patients but also to contribute to the growing body of research that will shape the future of healthcare.

When seeking out a stem cell clinic, there are several factors to consider:

The range of treatments offered by the leading stem cell clinics in the USA is vast and varied. These treatments are often tailored to the individual, targeting specific conditions with the goal of achieving the best possible outcomes. Some of the pioneering treatments include:

The future of stem cell therapy in the USA is bright, with ongoing research and clinical trials continually expanding the possibilities of regenerative medicine. As technology advances and our understanding of stem cell biology deepens, the range of treatable conditions is expected to grow, potentially transforming the medical landscape.

To conclude, The top stem cell clinics in the USA are at the forefront of a medical revolution, offering new hope to patients with chronic conditions. With a commitment to innovation, safety, and patient care, these clinics embody the best of what medical science has to offer. As stem cell therapy continues to evolve, it holds the promise of changing lives by providing treatments that were once considered beyond reach

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Top Stem Cell Clinics in the USA: Pioneering Treatments for Chronic Conditions - Medical Tourism Magazine

Achieving Joint Health: Europe’s Leading Stem Cell Solutions for Osteoarthritis – Medical Tourism Magazine

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in joints. Traditional treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, or even joint replacement surgery. However, advancements in regenerative medicine have led to innovative solutions, particularly in Europe, offering hope for those seeking effective, non-invasive alternatives. In this article, we explore Europe's leading stem cell solutions for osteoarthritis, highlighting the cutting-edge therapies and top clinics pioneering these treatments.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, inflammation, and impaired joint function. Commonly affecting weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine, OA significantly impacts quality of life for affected individuals. Traditional treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression, but they often fail to address the underlying cause or provide long-term relief.

Stem cell therapy holds immense promise in the field of regenerative medicine, offering the potential to repair damaged tissues and promote healing within the body. In the context of osteoarthritis, stem cell treatments aim to regenerate cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function without the need for invasive surgeries. This innovative approach has garnered attention for its ability to provide long-lasting relief and potentially halt the progression of OA.

Europe has emerged as a hub for cutting-edge stem cell research and therapies, attracting patients from around the globe seeking advanced medical treatments. Several European clinics and medical centers specialize in offering stem cell solutions for osteoarthritis, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies and pioneering approaches to patient care. These facilities adhere to strict regulatory standards and prioritize patient safety and satisfaction, making them highly sought-after destinations for medical tourists seeking effective joint treatments.

European clinics offering stem cell therapies for osteoarthritis employ various techniques to deliver optimal results for patients. From adipose-derived stem cell injections to bone marrow aspiration procedures, these treatments harness the regenerative potential of stem cells to repair damaged cartilage and alleviate joint pain. Additionally, some clinics utilize platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in conjunction with stem cell treatments to enhance healing and accelerate recovery.

When considering stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis, it's essential to research and select a reputable clinic with a proven track record of success. Patients should look for facilities staffed by experienced medical professionals who specialize in regenerative medicine and orthopedics. Furthermore, clinics should prioritize patient education and provide comprehensive consultations to ensure individuals fully understand the treatment process, potential risks, and expected outcomes.

Europe's leading stem cell solutions for osteoarthritis offer new hope for individuals suffering from joint pain and mobility issues. With cutting-edge therapies and state-of-the-art facilities, patients can access innovative treatments that provide effective relief without the need for invasive surgeries. As regenerative medicine continues to advance, the future looks promising for those seeking to achieve optimal joint health and improve their overall quality of life.

To conclude, In the quest for joint health, Europe stands at the forefront of innovation, offering advanced stem cell solutions that redefine the treatment landscape for osteoarthritis. Through ongoing research, technological advancements, and a commitment to excellence in patient care, European clinics continue to pave the way for a brighter, more pain-free future for individuals living with osteoarthritis.

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Achieving Joint Health: Europe's Leading Stem Cell Solutions for Osteoarthritis - Medical Tourism Magazine

Stem Cell Research and Cancer-causing Mutations: Potential and Challenges – Medriva

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

Stem cell research, hailed as the future of regenerative medicine, holds immense potential for treating a myriad of diseases. However, a recent study has revealed that approximately one-fifth of stem cells grown in laboratories for medical treatments possess cancer-causing mutations. Although these cells have not been injected into humans, they are being used in research to explore their potential for medical use.

Recent studies have shown a huge variation in mutations for induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), some of which severely limit their transformative abilities. Aging and evolutionary pressures cause these cells to harbor more mutations than previously suspected. Interestingly, a significant percentage of stem cell lines contained BCOR mutations predicted to be pathogenic. These mutations impaired the stem cells abilities to differentiate into other tissues, with the mutational process mainly focused on BCOR during the stem cell reprogramming process.

Despite these challenges, scientists are not deterred from exploring the potential of stem cells in cancer therapies. In a groundbreaking study, scientists from UC San Francisco and Northwestern University introduced a mutation found in cancer cells into CAR-T cells, a type of immune cell modified in the lab to fight cancer. This mutation supercharged the CAR-T cells, making them 100 times more potent against cancer cells. This innovative therapy was able to destroy solid skin, lung, and stomach tumors in mice, setting the stage for further development in human trials.

Research has also focused on the activation of lineage-inappropriate signaling pathways by leukemic stem cells (LSCs) to promote their growth. These cells aberrantly activate the VEGF and IL-5 signaling pathways, which allows them to re-enter the cell cycle while preserving self-renewal capacity. Inhibitors for VEGFA and IL5RA have shown promise in reducing proliferation, indicating these pathways as potential targets for treatment.

Further illustrating the potential of stem cells, City of Hope has reported a successful case of treating the oldest patient to achieve remission from leukemia and HIV. The patient received a blood stem cell transplant from a donor with a rare genetic mutation and was given reduced-intensity chemotherapy before the transplant. This case demonstrates the potential of stem cell transplantation in achieving remission from HIV and cancer, even in older patients.

While the presence of cancer-causing mutations in laboratory-grown stem cells poses a significant challenge, the potential breakthroughs in medical treatments such cells provide cannot be ignored. The future of regenerative medicine hinges on the successful management of these mutations and the harnessing of stem cells transformative abilities. Continued research and development in this field are essential to fully unlock the potential of stem cells for the benefit of medical science and patient care.

Chinese team tests lung treatment that may be first to reverse COPD damage – South China Morning Post

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

But through preclinical studies in mice and monkeys, the team and other scientists have found that resident progenitor lung cells capable of differentiating into multiple types of lung cells had a capacity for regeneration.

Healthy progenitor cells are often deficient in patients with COPD, however even those with the most severe stages of the disease still have healthy cells that can be isolated and used in personalised treatments.

These cells could be used as a Band-Aid for the lungs which could repair tissues in the airways and even deeper into the alveoli, the paper said.

Stem cell and progenitor cell-based regenerative medicine may be the biggest, if not the only, hope to cure COPD, Zuo Wei, study author and a professor at the Tongji University School of Medicine, said during a presentation at the European Respiratory Society International Congress last year.

In a phase 1 clinical trial of their treatment, the team collected healthy progenitor lung cells, called P63+, from the patients lungs via a bronchoscopy. The cells were then cultured in a lab for three to five weeks to make millions of cell clones.

Once the cells had multiplied, they were transplanted back into the patients via another bronchoscopy. A final evaluation of the patients was conducted six months after treatment.

The 17 patients with varying stages of COPD who received the treatment had no serious adverse side effects, and those that did occur were primarily a result of the bronchoscopy procedure, the team wrote.

New Chinese drug shows record treatment success against deadly lung cancer type

The scientists also did not observe any signs of tumour formation in the patients six months after transplant.

When evaluating the lungs ability to diffuse carbon monoxide which is used as a lung function test for COPD the scientists found that the study group had improved diffusion capacity compared to the baseline and control patients.

During a six-minute walking test, the study group was able to walk around 30 metres further after the treatment, which was a clinically meaningful improvement in exercise capacity, the paper said.

Surveys of the trial participants also suggested that most patients in the intervention group had an improved quality of life after treatment, the team wrote.

03:05

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We found that P63+ progenitor cell transplantation not only improved the lung function of patients with COPD, but also relieved their symptoms, such as shortness of breath, loss of exercise ability and persistent coughing, Zuo said.

The improvement in gas diffusion capacity and walking distance in the treated patients supports further clinical studies of P63+ progenitor cells for the treatment of COPD Melissa Norton, senior editor of the journal, said in an editors summary of the paper.

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The authors said the first phase of the clinical trial proved their treatment was safe and well tolerated, but it was limited to a small sample size comprising only men, so it was not suitable to determine efficacy yet.

To address this, the team is conducting an ongoing phase 2 clinical trial with a larger study group and follow-up time that looks at more indicators of lung function.

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Chinese team tests lung treatment that may be first to reverse COPD damage - South China Morning Post

Drug used for cocaine addiction may pave way for new treatment of advanced colon cancer – EurekAlert

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

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Credit: University of Ottawa

A new, cutting-edge study from the University of Ottawa (uOttawa) has found vanoxerine, a drug initially developed for the treatment of cocaine addiction, could impede advanced colorectal cancer stem cells by essentially re-wiring critical gene networks.

This new research published in Nature Cancer led by Dr. Yannick Benoit, Principal Investigator and Associate Professor in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (Faculty of Medicine) at uOttawa, has revealed that vanoxerine plays an entirely unexpected mechanism in cancer. The investigators observed that vanoxerine packs a powerful punch when suppressing cancer stem cell activity in colon cancer patients tissues and in tumours implanted in laboratory animals. It interferes with a protein that transports dopamine, the brain chemical involved in sensations of pleasure and reward, and represses an enzyme dubbed G9a in colorectal tumours.

Notably, the tumours treated with vanoxerine become more susceptible to attack by the immune system due to the reactivation of ancient viral DNA fragments accumulated in our genome throughout evolution. This finding is quite significant, considering that colorectal tumours tend to show poor response to standard immunotherapy, says Dr. Benoit, who was one of six national winners of the Gairdner Foundations 2022 Early Career Investigator competition.

A silent killer

Colorectal cancer - when cells grow and divide uncontrollably in the colon or rectum - is the worlds second leading cause of cancer-related deaths and is considered a silent cancer since it typically doesnt cause symptoms during early stages. While the risks increase with age, new statistics show an alarming increase among younger adults.

Because its frequently diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are few, it is imperative to discover new methods of beating back colorectal cancer cells and tumours. When seeking a drug safely tested in patients, the most promising option turned out to be vanoxerine, a dopamine reuptakeinhibitor.

The research team observed such minimal toxicity from vanoxerine treatments when testing in healthy human and mouse tissues that Dr. Benoit says their work potentially floats a safe way to eliminate cancer stem cells in colorectal tumours without harming the good stem cells in the body's organs.

New and promising treatment

While prevention and early detection remain the best weapons against colorectal cancer, these highly compelling findings may pave the way for a new and promising treatment option for patients struggling with advanced disease.

For those unfortunate people diagnosed with advanced and aggressive forms of colorectal cancer, we profoundly hope our work can lead to the development of powerful options for treatment in the future and substantially increase their survival chances, says Dr. Benoit.

Roots of collaboration

The study was strongly collaborative, benefitting from expertise across the uOttawa Faculty of Medicines broad research ecosystem.

The first author is Christopher Bergin, a recent PhD graduate from Dr. Benoits lab who methodically tested vanoxerine for its anti-cancer stem cell properties in patient-derived organoids. Dr. Rebecca Auer, scientific director of The Ottawa Hospitals Cancer Therapeutics Program, provided access to colorectal cancer patients tissues. Dr. Mario Tiberi and Dr. Michele Ardolino provided critical insights and expertise.

While working on this study, Dr. Benoits lab hosted Dr. Tanguy Fenouil, a gastrointestinal pathologist from France whose collaborative work was key.

Meta-analysis

Cells

The dopamine transporter antagonist vanoxerine inhibits G9a and suppresses cancer stem cell functions in colon tumors

13-Feb-2024

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.

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Drug used for cocaine addiction may pave way for new treatment of advanced colon cancer - EurekAlert

Stopping the awakening of sleeping Acute Myeloid Leukaemia stem cells to prevent disease relapse – University of Birmingham

By adminFebruary 20, 2024Stem Cell Medicine

New study provides clues to why leukaemic stem cells not harmed by chemotherapy begin to grow and produce AML cells after treatment.

Published 15 February 2024

The mystery of why myeloid leukaemias start to grow again after chemotherapy has killed the bulk of malignant cells, and how growth may be blocked by repurposed drugs, has potentially been solved through new research.

The bone marrow of AML patients contains a rare population of leukaemic stem cells (LSCs) that do not grow and therefore are not killed by chemotherapy. However, after treatment, these cells start to grow and produce AML cells, but it was unclear what kick-starts this process.

In a new study published in Nature Communications, researchers from the University of Birmingham, Newcastle University and the Princess Maxima Centre of Pediatric oncology studied single cells from patients with t(8;21) Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, a specific type of blood cancer, to investigate what made the rare LSCs grow.

Leukaemic stem cells normally seem asleep which is why they are not killed by chemotherapy, but we reasoned that something must trigger them to start growing in order for the leukaemia to come back.

Professor Constanze Bonifer from the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham who led the study said:

"Leukaemic stem cells normally seem asleep which is why they are not killed by chemotherapy, but we reasoned that something must trigger them to start growing in order for the leukaemia to come back.

These cells are very rare and difficult to study but by examining gene expression in single LSCs we found genes being expressed that encode for growth regulators normally not present in myeloid cells. Both cell types are found in the bone marrow alongside the AML cells, but healthy stem cells do not respond to their signals. By aberrantly upregulating these growth regulators, leukaemic stem cells now can respond to growth factors that are present in the body and tell them to grow."

The growth regulators, identified in this study were KDR, the receptor for VEGF signalling which is normally only expressed in blood vessels and the IL-5 receptor which is normally only expressed on eosinophils. Moreover, VEGFA, the growth factor binding to KDR, was also expressed by the leukaemia meaning it could trigger its own growth. Following identification of these receptors, the researchers confirmed that by activating them in the laboratory they were able to trigger stem cells growth. Importantly, they also showed that growth could be blocked in a dish and in mice by repurposing drugs against VEGF (Avastin, approved for various solid tumours including colorectal cancer) and IL-5 signalling (Fasenra, approved for eosinophilic asthma).

Professor Olaf Heidenreich from Newcastle University and the Princess Maxima Centre of Pediatric Oncology says:

An exciting result from these studies is the fact that the expression of these receptors is specific to this particular type of leukemia. They are expressed as a result of the presence of a specific disease-causing mutation giving rise to the onco-fusion protein RUNX1::ETO which reprograms the gene regulatory network that defines how a cell responds to outside growth signals.

"This work highlights the power of single cell analysis for digging deep into what regulates the growth of AML cells. It also highlights the fact that AML sub-types may have to be treated as a separate entities.

The first author of the study, Dr Sophie Kellaway who is now continuing this research at the University of Nottingham says:

"We were very excited to find not one but two new, and potentially druggable targets to prevent relapse in these patients. Being told your cancer has come back is devastating news and we want to prevent this happening. Unfortunately, as these receptors were so specific this would only work for t(8;21) acute myeloid leukaemia and is not a magic bullet.

"However, inspection of other single cell data from different leukaemia sub-types show that other growth regulatory pathways are upregulated in their stem cell population as well. We are now hoping to find those that can be hit in other types of AML".

Dr Suzanne Rix, from Blood Cancer UK, said: Blood cancer is the UKs third biggest cancer killer and acute myeloid leukaemia is a particularly aggressive form of blood cancer that can come back even after initial treatments have been successful.

"This research uncovers why one specific type of acute myeloid leukaemia can return, and could lead to the development of new treatments with the potential to stop the cancer coming back, giving new hope to people affected by this specific form of leukaemia. However, further work is needed to see whether a similar approach could be taken for other forms of acute myeloid leukaemia and more broadly much more research is desperately needed to develop effective, kinder treatments for all blood cancers.

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Stopping the awakening of sleeping Acute Myeloid Leukaemia stem cells to prevent disease relapse - University of Birmingham

The untapped potential of stem cells in menstrual blood – Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance

By adminFebruary 11, 2024Adult Stem Cells

Roughly 20 years ago, a biologist named Caroline Gargett went in search of some remarkable cells in tissue that had been removed during hysterectomy surgeries. The cells came from the endometrium, which lines the inside of the uterus. When Gargett cultured the cells in a petri dish, they looked like round clumps surrounded by a clear, pink medium. But examining them with a microscope, she saw what she was looking for two kinds of cells, one flat and roundish, the other elongated and tapered, with whisker-like protrusions.

Gargett strongly suspected that the cells were adultstem cells rare, self-renewing cells, some of which can give rise to many different types of tissues. She and other researchers had long hypothesized that the endometrium contained stem cells, given its remarkable capacity to regrow itself each month. The tissue, which provides a site for an embryo to implant during pregnancy and is shed during menstruation,undergoes roughly 400 roundsof shedding and regrowth before a woman reaches menopause. But although scientists had isolated adult stem cells from many other regenerating tissues including bone marrow, the heart, and muscle "no one had identified adult stem cells in endometrium," Gargett says.

Such cells are highly valued for their potential to repair damaged tissue and treat diseases such as cancer and heart failure. But they exist in low numbers throughout the body, and can be tricky to obtain, requiring surgical biopsy, or extracting bone marrow with a needle. The prospect of a previously untapped source of adult stem cells was thrilling on its own, says Gargett. And it also raised the exciting possibility of a new approach to long-neglected women's health conditions such as endometriosis.

Before she could claim that the cells were truly stem cells, Gargett and her team at Monash University in Australia had to put them through a series of rigorous tests. First, they measured the cells' ability to proliferate and self-renew, and found that some of them could divide into about 100 cells within a week. They also showed that the cells could indeed differentiate into endometrial tissue, and identified certain telltale proteins that are present in other types of stem cells.

Gargett, who is now also with Australia's Hudson Institute of Medical Research, and her colleagues went on to characterizeseveral types of self-renewing cells in the endometrium. But only the whiskered cells, called endometrial stromalmesenchymal stem cells, were truly "multipotent," with the ability to be coaxed into becoming fat cells, bone cells, or even the smooth muscle cells found in organs such as the heart.

Around the same time, two independent research teams made another surprising discovery: Some endometrial stromal mesenchymal stem cellscould be found in menstrual blood. Gargett was surprised that the body would so readily shed its precious stem cells. Since they are so important for the survival and function of organs, she didn't think the body would "waste" them by shedding them. But she immediately recognized the finding's significance: Rather than relying on an invasive surgical biopsy to obtain the elusive stem cells she'd identified in the endometrium, she could collect them via menstrual cup.

More detailed studies of the endometrium have since helped to explain how a subset of these precious endometrial stem cells dubbed menstrual stem cells end up in menstrual blood. The endometrium has a deeper basal layer that remains intact, and an upper functional layer that sloughs off during menstruation. During a single menstrual cycle, the endometrium thickens as it prepares to nourish a fertilized egg, then shrinks as the upper layer sloughs away.

Gargett's team has shown that these special stem cells are present in both the lower and upper layers of the endometrium. The cells are typically wrapped around blood vessels in a crescent shape, where they are thought to help stimulate vessel formation and play a vital role in repairing and regenerating the upper layer of tissue that gets shed each month during menstruation. This layer is crucial to pregnancy, providing support and nourishment for a developing embryo. The layer, and the endometrial stem cells that prod its growth, also appears to play an important role in infertility: An embryo can't implant if the layer doesn't thicken enough.

Endometrial stem cells have also been linked toendometriosis, a painful condition that affects roughly 190 million women and girls worldwide. Although much about the condition isn't fully understood, researchers hypothesize that one contributor is the backflow of menstrual blood into a woman's fallopian tubes, the ducts that carry the egg from the ovaries into the uterus. This backward flow takes the blood into the pelvic cavity, a funnel-shaped space between the bones of the pelvis. Endometrial stem cells that get deposited in these areas may cause endometrial-like tissue to grow outside of the uterus, leading to lesions that can cause excruciating pain, scarring and, in many cases, infertility.

Researchers are still developing a reliable, noninvasive test to diagnose endometriosis, and patients wait an average of nearly seven years before receiving a diagnosis. But studies have shown that stem cells collected from the menstrual blood of women with endometriosis have differentshapesandpatterns of gene expressionthan cells from healthy women. Several labs are working on ways to use these differences in menstrual stem cells to identify women at higher risk of the condition, which could lead to faster diagnosis and treatment. Menstrual stem cells may also have therapeutic applications. Some researchers working on mice, for example, have found that injecting menstrual stem cells into the rodents' blood can repair the damaged endometrium and improve fertility.

Other research in lab animals suggests that menstrual stem cells could have therapeutic potential beyond gynecological diseases. In a couple of studies, for example, injecting menstrual stem cells into diabetic micestimulated regeneration of insulin-producing cellsandimproved blood sugar levels. In another, treating injuries with stem cells or their secretions helpedheal wounds in mice.

A handful of small but promising clinical trials have found that menstrual stem cells can be transplanted into humans without adverse side effects. Gargett's team is also attempting to develop human therapies. She and her colleagues are using endometrial stem cells those taken directly from endometrial tissue, rather than menstrual blood to engineer a mesh to treat pelvic organ prolapse, a common, painful condition in which the bladder, rectum or uterus slips into the vagina due to weak or injured muscles.

The condition is often caused by childbirth. Existing treatments use synthetic meshes to reinforce and support weak pelvic tissues. But adverse immune reactions to these materials have led these meshes to be withdrawn from the market. Gargett's research so far conducted only in animal models suggests that using a patient's own endometrial stem cells to coat biodegradable meshes couldyield better results.

Despite the relative convenience of collecting adult multipotent stem cells from menstrual blood, research exploring and utilizing the stem cells' power and their potential role in disease still represents a tiny fraction of stem cell research, saysDaniela Tonelli Manica, an anthropologist at Brazil's State University of Campinas. As of 2020, she found, menstrual stem cell researchaccounted for only 0.25 percentof all mesenchymal cell research, while bone marrow stem cells represented 47.7 percent.

Manica attributes the slow adoption of menstrual stem cells in part to misogynistic ideas that uteruses are outside the norm, and to reactions of disgust. "There's certainly something of an 'ick factor' associated with menstrual blood," agreesVictoria Male, a reproductive immunologist at Imperial College London who coauthored an article aboututerine immune cellsin the 2023Annual Review of Immunology.

Cultural taboos surrounding menstruation and a general lack of investment in women's health research can make it difficult to get funding, says Gargett. Immunologist Male has faced similar challenges it was easier to obtain funding when she used to study immune cells in liver transplantation than it is now that she works on immune cells in the uterus, she says.

"If we want more research on menstrual fluid, we need more funding," says Male, noting that the logistics of collecting menstrual fluid over multiple days can be expensive. For that to happen, "we have to tackle sex and gender bias in research funding." Through more equitable investments, she and others hope, menstruation will be recognized as an exciting new frontier in regenerative medicine not just a monthly inconvenience.

Sneha Khedkar

This article was originally published by the Knowable Magazine on 29 January 2024.

See original here:
The untapped potential of stem cells in menstrual blood - Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance