DaVinci: Stem cell treatment helped spinal cord patients

Following up on eight acute and chronic spinal cord injury patients who were injected with bone marrow stem cells two years ago, researchers say that the therapy proved safe and effective in improving their quality of life.

DaVinci Biosciences undertook the study in Ecuador and have now issued a follow-up report claiming that MRIs have revealed "noticeable morphological changes within the spinal cord after administration of autologous bone marrow derived stem cells." There was no tumor formation, increased pain or deterioration of function following administration of the stem cell treatment.

"The outcome of this study is exciting for us and our patients; we plan on expanding and building upon the results," said Francisco Silva, president of DaVinci Biosciences. "We strongly believe that this an important first step for realizing the therapeutic application of stem cells for treating diseases and injuries such as spinal cord injury in humans."

"Although there have been numerous studies in animals demonstrating the benefits of stem cell treatment for the treatment of spinal cord injury, this is the first published study of its kind, it gives patients the possibility that their quality of life can be improved," said Dr. Paul Sanberg, Director of the Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair at the University of South Florida.

- reaad the report from Medical News Today