Small vials on a desk in a lab

What do we know from the research on mesenchymal stromal cells as a treatment for CP?

A new research review, led by Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s Dr. Madison Paton (Senior Research Fellow, Regeneration), has taken a close look at mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) — a type of cell therapy often derived from the umbilical cord or bone marrow — to determine the state of the evidence for cerebral palsy (CP).

Whilst cord blood is in the most advanced stages of research (read more about that here), we are often asked about other cell therapies and the evidence behind them as a treatment for CP.

Research shows that MSCs may help reduce inflammation and support brain development which could be beneficial in CP. Five years ago, CPA’s collaborative CP Interventions Traffic Light Research Paper (Novak 2020) indicated the MSCs are a yellow-light intervention, meaning there is some promising evidence of MSCs improving gross motor function in CP, but more research is needed.

Now, new global research has been reviewed to assess where things stand.

The research review found:

  • 1,292 people with CP have been treated with MSCs across 40 reports or clinical trials globally.
  • Almost a third of all participants received treatment outside of a formal research study, via a compassionate access program.
  • Studies included a range of participants across different age groups, support needs and types of CP. The methods for MSC use varied – including the MSC source, how the dose was delivered, the amount of dose and how many doses were given.
  • Overall, MSCs were safe and showed large improvements in motor function compared to those not receiving treatment (called controls). This was seen at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment.

Despite confirming safety and demonstrating promising improvements in motor function with MSC treatment, the variety of research methods as well as variability in the participants makes it hard to know who might benefit the most and how to best provide MSCs.

To move closer to MSCs becoming an approved treatment for people with CP, better-quality and more aligned research is essential. Researchers worldwide need to standardise how treatments are given and measured so we can truly understand how MSCs can help people with CP.

For more details and research insights, see the full study here.