New research comparing stem cell transplants to the MS drug mitoxantrone reveals promising results for patients with severe multiple sclerosis who have not responded well to conventional treatments.
The study followed 21 individuals with MS whose condition had worsened despite taking first-line medications. Participants, with an average age of 36, were experiencing mobility challenges that required the use of a cane or crutch.
Twelve of the participants received mitoxantrone, a drug that suppresses immune activity, while nine underwent an autologous stem cell transplant. This process involved harvesting stem cells from the patient’s bone marrow, suppressing their immune systems, and then reintroducing the cells to help rebuild a healthier immune response.
Results showed that stem cell transplants led to 80% fewer new T2 brain lesions compared to the drug treatment. On average, those who received stem cells developed 2.5 new lesions, while those who took mitoxantrone developed eight. Additionally, none of the stem cell recipients developed gadolinium-enhancing lesions, another marker of MS disease activity, whereas 56% of the drug-treated group did.
“These findings suggest that stem cell treatment may profoundly affect the course of the disease,” said Dr. Giovanni Mancardi of the University of Genova, the study’s lead author.
The stem cell treatment was anticipated and resolved without long-term consequences. Dr. Mancardi emphasized the need for further research with larger patient groups, but the results suggest that stem cell therapy could be a superior alternative for severe MS cases.
