A team of researchers from universities in Portugal have showcased a new stem cell treatment for Intervertebral Disc (IVD) Degeneration.  The treatment uses Mesenchymal Stem Cells to regenerate tissue in the spine.

The researchers have successfully tested the treatment in cow models, using a chemoattractant delivery system to attract the mesenchymal stem cells directly to the site of the degeneration.  They found that attracting the stem cells to the damaged area led to an increase in the production of collagen, reversing some of the degeneration of the discs.

IVD occurs when the discs in the vertebrae lose their cushioning and begin to fragment or herniate.  It is a very common condition that is related to ageing.  People with IVD often lose flexibility and suffer from back pain.

These new findings are a significant breakthrough in the field and may potentially help millions of people around the world who suffer from back pain.  Current clinical solutions can alleviate some pain but cannot address the underlying issues.  This new stem cell treatment may begin to reverse the damage done to the discs in the spine.

The root cause of IVD degeneration is is unbalanced cell catabolic/anabolic activity and cellular death.  This leads to degradation of the extracellular matrix components and water loss.  Unfortunately, there is no way to stop this process.

The Portuguese researchers decided to test how the spine reacted to a repopulation of new cells.  They hoped it would help with the recovery of tissue homeostasis and stop further degeneration.

The most exciting element of this research is the use of a chemoattractant delivery system to draw stem cells to the location of the degenerated discs.  This technique could be useful for treating many other types of injuries and degenerative conditions.

Source: Intervertebral disc degeneration could be treated using mesenchymal stem cells

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