Stem Cell Trial to Assess Impact on MS

Scientists in Britain will be conducting a major stem cell research in an attempt to find out whether they will be able to slowdown or stop the damage caused to the brain and spinal cord among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). More than 200 patients from across the world will be participating in the study which will cost over £10 million and will include scientists from around the world.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord after the immune system attacks a protective covering of the nerve cells known as myelin. This leads to disruption of the messages sent to and from the brain and leads to sight loss, muscle stiffness and bladder and bowel problems.

“This is the first time that researchers from around the world have come together to test stem cell therapies in MS in such a large-scale clinical trial. A trial of this scale would be impossible to run in one location which is why this type of collaboration is essential if we are to make progress in this field”, lead researcher Paolo Muraro said.

Source-Medindia