Can Stem Cells Help Patients with Early Stages of Dementia?

Stem cell therapy is an innovative alternative option that can potentially benefit patients facing a wide variety of conditions, including orthopedic injuries and autoimmune disorders.
Over the last few years, stem cells have also been used to help Alzheimer’s patients. While the efficacy of stem cells for Alzheimer’s is still being researched, it has the potential to become a viable intervention to help manage symptoms and slow the rate of progression.
Alzheimer’s Disease: A Brief Overview
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by a substantial reduction in a patient’s cognitive abilities. Patients experience symptoms such as recalling memories, functioning without assistance, or having clear thoughts. Patients also experience a decrease in brain cells, which causes memory issues and loss of cognitive skills that are traditionally associated with the condition.
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. It typically does not manifest in individuals under the age of 60, however, the condition can occasionally impact people in their 30s and 40s.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and it generally progresses over several years.
Potential Benefits of Stem Cells for Alzheimer’s Patients
While mesenchymal stem cells are traditionally administered to patients via injection, they are introduced systemically.
When administered in high amounts, MSCs may be able to:
- Replace damaged brain cells with new, healthy cells
- Improve the functional recovery process
- Regenerate neuron pathways
- Increase functional memory and cognitive ability
Stem cells are unique in that they have the ability to become other types of cells within the body, including neural cells. The goal of stem cell therapy for Alzheimer’s patients is to replace the lost brain cells so that they can regain some cognitive abilities and potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, as well.
How Do Stem Cells Work in Alzheimer’s Patients?
Stem cells are primarily found in adipose tissue, bone marrow, and in the Wharton’s Jelly found in umbilical cords. These cells can be harvested, concentrated, and administered to Alzheimer’s patients.
This process supplements the patient’s existing stem cells so that they can more effectively address inflammation within the body, including within the brain. Stem cell therapy has the potential to not only slow the progression of Alzheimer’s but also to potentially regenerate damaged brain cells.
While further research must still be conducted, stem cell therapy appears to be a promising option for Alzheimer’s sufferers. Stem cell therapy may be an alternative option for patients when other interventions have not shown much success.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine, also known as Stem Cell Therapy in Tampa. Regenerative medicine seeks to replace tissue or organs that have been damaged by disease, trauma, or congenital issues.