Stem Cell Therapy For Autism

Stem Cell Therapy For Autism

At present, there is no clinically proven cure for autism; however, research suggests stem cells may provide some relief. Stem cell therapy for autism could potentially improve quality of life for individuals living with autism as well as their families.

At present, there are numerous research studies exploring the use of stem cells for autism treatment. While some results are encouraging, others reveal mixed outcomes.

Research on stem cells has been limited, but some types have been observed that can improve regulation of the immune system and neural connectivity in the brain21-23. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that stem cell therapy from umbilical cord blood can aid in creating new blood vessels in the brain.

However, the current scientific evidence is insufficient and several shortcomings need to be addressed. First, the study size is too small with no standardized injection routes or doses for stem cells; secondly, the follow-up period is too brief to observe any effects from stem cell treatments on core symptoms of autism (such as the Clinical Global Impression Scale score).

Additionally, graft-versus-host disease can develop when someone receives donor stem cells. This may result in a variety of uncomfortable and even fatal symptoms; thus, it is imperative that any stem cell product be cleared by the FDA prior to beginning any treatment with them.