Researchers have made a discovery that indicates stem cells from umbilical cord blood may be used to improve cognition in Alzheimer’s patients. Researchers from the Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology at the Silver Child Development Centre, University of South Florida, Tampa published the research in the journal Cell Transplantation.

Led by Donna Darlington, PhD, the researchers performed trials on mice with Alzheimer’s. Monocytes that were derived from the stem cells in umbilical cord blood were transfused into the mice over several months. Monocytes are peripheral blood mononuclear cells which help the immune system fight infection.  The behaviour of the monocytes was observed and chemical analysis of their impact was undertaken.

It was found that the monocytes led to a decline in toxic amyloid-beta protein. The mice also saw an improvement in their memory, motor function and learning capacity. 

The researchers explained the reasons why the changes occurred, saying: “We believe that phagocytosis (a process by which cells internalize solid particles) is a possible mechanism by which MNCs mediate Aβ clearance, Most importantly, we found that aged monocytes were less effective against Aβ and that soluble amyloid precursor protein (sAPPa) could restore the phagocytic capabilities of these endogenous aged cells.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the only cause of death in the “top 10 most common deaths” that cannot be prevented or slowed down. It affects an estimated 26 million people worldwide, mostly affecting women.

The research further demonstrates the power of stem cells from umbilical cord blood and may lead to a for Alzheimer’s.

Source: Stem Cells from Umbilical Cord May Boost Cognition in Alzheimer’s

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