An innovative new stem cell procedure may help NFL players recover from multiple concussions. The treatment, developed by Dr. Mark Foglietti and Dr. Michael Kellis, may be used to reduce the swelling suffered from a concussion and restore nervous system function — reducing the risk of long term brain injury and helping players get back onto the field.

A concussion is a common type of traumatic brain injury that can cause a temporary loss in brain function. Symptoms include a loss of cognitive function, a temporary loss of consciousness, changes in personality, sleep disturbances and headaches.  Concussions are very common in contact sports like American football or rugby. 

Scientists have discovered that repeatedly suffering from concussions can have long-term effects on the brain — affecting a person’s memory and increasing the likelihood of psychiatric disorders. The term Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is used to describe the cumulative damage caused by concussions.

Dr. Foglietti and Dr. Kellis decided to use stem cells to treat CTE. The stem cell procedure they tested uses fat cells from the patient’s body, converting them into a special type of stem cell that has regenerative properties. Those stem cells are then transplanted into the patient, where they begin repairing the patient’s central nervous system.

Dr. Kellis says the results from the stem cell procedure have been incredibly positive: “The results have been dramatic. It’s important to note these stem cells are what we call pluripotent, they become where we put them.”

Source: Stem cell procedure has potential to help NFL players who’ve suffered multiple concussions

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