Neurogenic MSC: Stem Cell Therapy to Support Nervous System Regeneration — Who Is It Suitable For, and What Should You Know Before Treatment?

Neurogenic MSC refers to Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) that have been stimulated or induced to develop characteristics associated with cells of the nervous system, such as neurons. Neurons are the principal cells of the nervous system and are responsible for receiving and transmitting nerve signals through neural networks to different parts of the body. They play essential roles in controlling movement, sensation, cognition, analytical thinking, emotions, and the functions of various organs.

Research has shown that Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) derived from human Wharton’s jelly possess neurogenic potential, meaning they have the potential to develop toward neural cell lineages. When induced using a two-dimensional (2D) culture system, researchers were able to obtain relatively stable and homogeneous cell populations, suggesting that these cells may have potential applications in regenerative medicine.

However, further studies are still required in several areas, including the electrophysiological properties of the resulting cells and their ability to fully differentiate into mature, terminally differentiated neural cells. Additional research is therefore necessary to further establish their efficacy and safety before broader clinical application (Kruminis-Kaszkiel et al., 2020).

Neurogenic MSCs have several properties that may help support the recovery and regeneration of the nervous system, including:

• May help reduce inflammation and neuronal cell death by releasing certain bioactive substances that can help regulate inflammatory responses. This may help reduce damage to nerve cells and surrounding tissues while supporting the balance and integrity of the nervous system.
• May support nerve cell repair and regeneration by creating a biological environment that is favorable for the repair and regeneration of damaged nerves. They may also support the repair of the myelin sheath, which plays an essential role in nerve impulse transmission and overall nervous system function.
• May promote the formation of new blood vessels to support increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to nervous system tissues.
• May support cell-to-cell communication through the release of signaling molecules such as exosomes and growth factors, which help neighboring cells communicate and work together.
• May support recovery from neurological degeneration and injury by potentially helping reduce disease severity and supporting the recovery of symptoms associated with neurodegenerative conditions and nervous system injuries.

• Individual responses to Neurogenic MSC and treatment outcomes may vary depending on factors such as age, severity of symptoms, and the patient’s underlying health condition. A medical consultation and individual assessment are therefore recommended before making a treatment decision.
• Neurogenic MSC involves processes that require strict quality control at every stage. Treatment should therefore be provided by a licensed medical facility or clinic that meets appropriate standards and is supervised by physicians with relevant experience.
• The quality of the cells used may vary depending on several factors, including the tissue source, culture process, culture medium, and the number of cell culture passages (Passage). Patients should therefore review the details and quality standards of the treatment thoroughly before proceeding.
• Neurogenic MSC may cause certain side effects, such as pain or swelling at the administration site, mild fever, or temporary discomfort. In general, these symptoms are usually temporary and may resolve on their own.
• Neurogenic MSC is only one supportive option for promoting nervous system recovery and cannot replace standard medical treatment. It should be considered alongside other medical approaches, such as the identification of early biomarkers, pharmacological treatment, and individualized rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient’s condition (Sancho-Bielsa, 2021).

The recommended frequency of Neurogenic MSC may vary from person to person. A doctor will consider several factors, including age, overall health status, the severity of neurological symptoms, and each individual’s rehabilitation goals. In general, the cells are commonly administered intravenously (IV Drip), with the number of cells determined according to body weight per kilogram or the patient’s available budget.

• For children in general, children with autism, and children with ADHD: Neurogenic MSC at 3–0.5 million cells/kg every 3–6 months, or administered together with UMSCs at 1 million cells/kg every 6 months, with follow-up appointments every 3 months.
• For adults or older adults seeking nervous system rehabilitation: Neurogenic MSC at 3–0.5 million cells/kg every 6 months, or UMSCs at 1 million cells/kg + Neurogenic MSC at 20–50 million cells/kg (or according to the patient’s budget) every 6 months, with follow-up assessments every 3 months.
• For individuals with Alzheimer’s-related dementia: Neurogenic MSC at 3–0.5 million cells/kg every 6 months, or administered together with UMSCs at 1 million cells/kg every 6 months, with follow-up assessments every 3 months.
• For individuals with conditions related to stroke or coronary artery disease: Neurogenic MSC at approximately 0.3–0.5 million cells/kg + Vasculogenic MSC at 3–0.5 million cells/kg. Doctors may recommend beginning supportive treatment during the Golden Period, or within the first 3 months after symptom onset, with repeat treatment every 3–6 months where appropriate.

These protocols should be carried out under a doctor’s supervision, with suitability assessed individually according to each patient’s condition.