Stem Cells Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

 

As someone who's family has dealt with having a loved one deal with rheumatoid arthritis, I have seen them run through a wide array of treatment options. They tried everything from chemotherapeutic injections to dietary changes and natural remedies, however the only treatment that has worked so far is stem cell treatment. According to an article published by Frontiers in Immunology journal, Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment uses embryonic mesodermal stem cells for their regenerative properties to promote healing in the recipient. The MSCs secrete a regenerative bioactive factor that acts as a signal to surrounding cells. These factors stimulate site-specific and tissue-specific stem cells of the patient rather than growing into tissue producing cells. Thus, initiating growth of local cells native to the patients own body.

            MSC’s are found naturally in a few main areas of the body which include bone marrow, the umbilical cord, adipose tissue and synovial membranes (the layer surrounding joints which can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis). Each of these areas where MSCs are found have distinct advantages and disadvantages in treatment applications. Bone marrow derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) was the first site used for extraction in research studies due to its safety and effectiveness. BM-MSCs are marked by their high differentiation potential which is associated with a high repair potential. However, the disadvantages of BM-MSC’s include the risk of harvesting, condition of the donor, and risk of infection. In the case of the use of these stem cells to treat rheumatoid arthritis, the goal is to reduce the synovial inflammation which leads to synovial hypertrophy, ultimately resulting in bone and cartilage erosion. All these processes leave the patient with severe joint pain and a lack of mobility. In a non-arthritic joint T-lymphocytes and B cells monitor and control inflammation and swelling. When treated with BM-MSCs, however, studies have shown promising progress in the effectiveness of inflammation reduction. Additionally, studies have found that MSCs might be even more effective in treating the swelling of synovial fluid by promoting stimulation of regulating immune cells. Ultimately having a positive outlook on treatment options for subsiding swelling in joints and preventing further degradation of bone and cartilage tissues.

Hwang JJ, Rim YA, Nam Y, Ju JH. Recent Developments in Clinical Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Front Immunol. 2021 Mar 8;12:631291. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.631291. PMID: 33763076; PMCID: PMC7982594.