Cord Blood Stem Cells used in Cerebral Palsy Treatment

Results of the latest study by Dr Joanne Kurtzberg give new hope to Cerebral Palsy sufferers, through use of cord blood stem cells.

The latest highly anticipated study by Dr Joanne Kurtzberg, Duke University, into the use of cord blood stem cells for the treatment of Cerebral Palsy in young children has given very promising results. The study, published in peer reviewed STEM CELLS TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE, suggest that an IV infusion of cord blood stem cells improves whole brain connectivity and motor function in young children with Cerebral Palsy.

Cerebral palsy (CP), the most prevalent motor disorder of childhood, affects two to three per 1,000 live births. CP typically results from in utero or perinatal brain injury such as hypoxic insult, haemorrhage, or stroke. Affected children have varying degrees of functional impairments from mild limitations in advanced motor skills to severely limited self-mobility despite use of assistive technology resulting in a lifelong inability to function independently. Currently, the cornerstone of treatment is various therapies to optimize function and quality of life. However, no curative therapies are available.

Results of this trial suggest that when dosed ≥2 × 107 cells per kg, an IV infusion of ACB improves whole brain connectivity and motor function in young children with CP. These findings have important implications for the treatment of children with CP and should be further explored in future studies.
Click here to read the study in full.