Immunomodulatory Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Multiple Sclerosis and Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: A Review Study

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that may lead to disability of the patient. Current MS treatment regimens are still insufficient and research is conducted for developing more effective therapies capable of targeting neurodegeneration, inflammation, and demyelination. Recent results of experimental and clinical studies in cell-based therapy suggest Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) as potential candidates in autoimmune disorders. Immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties of mesenchymal stem cells might offer the valuable therapeutic potential to modulate inflammatory responses associated with MS and repairing damaged nervous tissue. This review summarizes the main experimental studies and clinical trials using MSCs in MS.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…In cases where patients do not respond to steroids during the initial MS attacks, plasma exchange, also known as plasmapheresis, may be employed as an alternative treatment [7]. Ocrelizumab, commercially known as Ocrevus, is the only disease-modifying medication authorised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) disease progression [8]. Injectable drug treatments such as interferon beta medications (to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses) and glatiramer acetate (to block the immune system from attacking the myelin sheath) may not be feasible options for relapsing or remitting disease progression or SPMS due to long-term side effects such as flu-like symptoms and skin irritation at the injection site [8].…”

“…Ocrelizumab, commercially known as Ocrevus, is the only disease-modifying medication authorised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) disease progression [8]. Injectable drug treatments such as interferon beta medications (to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses) and glatiramer acetate (to block the immune system from attacking the myelin sheath) may not be feasible options for relapsing or remitting disease progression or SPMS due to long-term side effects such as flu-like symptoms and skin irritation at the injection site [8]. There are several alternative treatment options available, such as oral medications like fingolimod, dimethyl fumarate, and diroximel fumarate, as well as infusion treatments like natalizumab and alemtuzumab.…”