Stem Cell Research

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is technically autologous blood with concentrations of platelets above baseline levels and contains at least seven growth factors. Because PRP contains growth factors that heal damaged tissues, it works by naturally triggering localized inflammation, collagen production, and other regenerative processes.

As a form of prolotherapy, PRP treatment is performed through a series of injection procedures that help resolve tears or injuries to connective tissue located throughout the musculoskeletal system. These can include injured or damaged ligaments, tendons, muscle fibers, fascia, cartilage, and joint capsules.

Depending on the candidate, prolotherapy methods like PRP and stem cell injections may be more effective at repairing injured joints and stretched or torn ligaments or tendons and permanently stabilizing weak, damaged, painful joints than surgery or pain-killing drugs.n Most patients receive multiple injections at each session. Repeat injections may be needed every four or more weeks. In many instances, the condition can be cured (ligament or tendon injuries), but in other instances, injections may need to be repeated periodically to maintain the clinical benefit (for example, moderate arthritis). The goal of PRP treatment is to strengthen and improve the quality of the targeted tissue and to reduce chronic inflammation, resulting in more stable and functional joints or other tissues and, of course, less pain.

So how does it work? Platelets from the blood are known for their repairing abilities. The released growth factors are key in a three-phase process during an injury that includes inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. These growth factors send a signal to the body that it’s time to fix up a damaged area of the body.

In PRP treatment, doctors can use concentrated platelets and growth factors from the patient and precisely guide them by ultrasound or live X-ray (fluoroscopy) to the targeted tissues, delivering a potent dose of these compounds to enhance the healing process in many musculoskeletal injuries that include bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, discs, labrum, meniscus, and nerves.

How does UC-MSC stem cell therapy help with diseases?

UC-MSC stem cell therapy has shown promise in treating a variety of diseases. UC-MSCs, or umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, are derived from the umbilical cord tissue and possess unique regenerative properties.

These stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various cell types and can promote tissue repair and regeneration. They can modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the production of growth factors and cytokines. This makes them potentially effective in treating conditions such as:

1. Autoimmune diseases: UC-MSC therapy has been studied for its potential to modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in conditions like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
2. Neurological disorders: UC-MSCs have shown promise in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and spinal cord injuries. They can support nerve cell growth and enhance neural tissue repair.
3. Cardiovascular diseases: Stem cell therapy using UC-MSCs may help in the regeneration of damaged heart tissues, improving cardiacfunction,n and reducing symptoms in conditions like heart failure or myocardial infarction.
4. Orthopedic conditions: UC-MSCs can help repair damaged cartilage, bones, and soft tissues, making them potentially beneficial in treating conditions such as osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and bone fractures.
5. Respiratory diseases: UC-MSC therapy has demonstrated potential in the treatment of lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). They can help reduce inflammation and promote lung tissue repair.

It’s important to note that UC-MSC therapy is still an emerging field, and research is ongoing.