Stem Cell Grafts Show Promise in Restoring Myelin in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Animal Models

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made significant strides in understanding how neural stem cell therapies could potentially repair nerve damage caused by progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Their recent study demonstrates that grafting induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) into a mouse model not only promotes remyelination—the restoration of the protective myelin sheath around nerve fibers—but also shows that these stem cells can mature into oligodendrocytes, the specific cells responsible for producing myelin. This discovery provides promising evidence that stem cell-based treatments might offer a new therapeutic avenue for individuals suffering from chronic demyelinating conditions.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the central nervous system, leading to the destruction of myelin. Early in MS, the body can partially repair this damage, but this ability diminishes significantly as the disease progresses into a chronic stage, resulting in increased neurological disability. Current treatments mainly address symptoms rather than reversing neural damage, underscoring the urgent need for restorative therapies.

The study, published in the journal Brain, was led by Dr. Luca Peruzzotti-Jametti and explored the potential of induced neural stem cells to remyelinate damaged CNS tissue. Using a mouse model with MS-like lesions, researchers found that the transplanted stem cells not only survived but differentiated into mature oligodendrocytes, effectively producing new myelin. Importantly, the transplantation procedure was shown to be safe, paving the way for future clinical developments.

"This research provides critical evidence that neural stem cell grafts can turn into myelin-producing cells within damaged CNS tissue, offering a novel approach to treat progressive MS," said Dr. Peruzzotti-Jametti. The team is investigating the mechanisms through which these stem cells promote neuroprotection and reduce inflammation, aiming to slow or halt disease progression and prevent brain atrophy.

The findings are a significant milestone in regenerative medicine for MS. They support further development of stem cell therapies and set the stage for upcoming clinical trials. Notably, the RESTORE consortium—a collaborative effort involving scientists from Cambridge and other institutions—aims to design and implement efficacy trials for neural stem cell treatments in progressive MS patients. Their goal is to not only alleviate symptoms but also fundamentally modify the disease course by regenerating myelin and protecting neurons.

"By demonstrating the ability of neural stem cells to generate myelin in vivo, this study advances the prospect of effective biological therapies for MS," emphasized Professor Stefano Pluchino. The ongoing research and future trials could transform MS into a condition that is manageable through regenerative interventions, offering hope for improved neurological outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients.