How Mesenchymal Stem Cells Work: Their Function and Therapeutic Applications

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), also known as multipotent stromal cells, are a type of cell found in a variety of tissues, including bone marrow, fat, gums, peripheral blood, as well as the placenta and umbilical cord. They are commonly referred to as “stromal” because they reside in the supportive network of tissues, providing structure and support to other cells. However, their role extends beyond mere support. 

Research indicates that MSCs can differentiate into a wide range of cell types, including bone, cartilage, fat, neural, and muscle cells. This makes them a promising candidate for regenerative medicine, with the potential to treat a variety of diseases and injuries.

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Every condition is unique. How does mesenchymal stem cell therapy work for your specific case? Schedule a no-obligation online consultation with our medical advisors. They’ll provide personalized guidance and answer any questions you may have.

Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

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What Makes MSCs So Special: Main Functions for Therapy

MSCs can support other cells and enhance the body’s immune system through their main functions:

When Do We Use MSCs

MSCs have a very broad range of applications. It includes all chronic diseases accompanied by massive cell death and damage, such as autoimmune and degenerative diseases.

How do mesenchymal stem cells work in each specific case?

MCSs are also effective for recovery from injuries, surgeries, acute heart attacks, and strokes.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Collection and Preparation

Mesenchymal stem cells fall into two main categories: 

• donor cells
• autologous cells. 

At Swiss Medica, we use both types of MSCs.

How does mesenchymal stem cell therapy work, depending on the type used?

Donor Cells

We only use donor cells from tissues that the mother voluntarily donated after a healthy childbirth. Before taking a cell sample, we have access to all test results and the pregnant woman’s medical history. Our stem cells may come from:

• Placental tissue—a temporary organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy and connects the baby to it.
• Umbilical cord tissue that connects the fetus and the placenta.
  

The cells can be collected at the time of birth and stored for later use.

We thoroughly examine each stem cell product multiple times before using it in a patient’s treatment. With our in-house laboratory, we can closely monitor stem cells’ composition and viability, guaranteeing safe and effective doses.

Patient’s Own Cells

We obtain autologous, or the patient’s own cells, from:

• red bone marrow—the soft, porous tissue with numerous blood vessels located at the core of most bones,
• adipose tissue (SVF), also known as body fat, 
• gingiva,
• and some other sources.

The patient’s cells can be partially used immediately and partially frozen until the patient’s next visit. Prior to the next arrival, the patient’s cells are cultured in a sterile laboratory environment for 4 to 5 weeks.

We recommend having an additional two months available in case the process takes longer, particularly for older patients whose cells may take longer to grow.

How Do We Deliver the MSCs?

How does mesenchymal stem cell therapy work after cultivation and preparation? The effectiveness of the therapy is closely tied to the delivery method.

We offer donor cells through various methods, including:

• Intravenously. Intravenous administration involves injecting the cells directly into a vein, which allows them to circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream. 
• Locally. We can deliver cells directly to a specific area, such as muscles or joints, or through masks, drops, enemas, or inhalations. 

Patients may be concerned about the risks of injecting donor cells into specific body cavities, such as the spinal cord or joints. To predict any cell rejections, we thoroughly investigate the patient’s personal history, condition specifics, donor suitability, and so on. This is one of the reasons behind Swiss Medica’s 80% success rate. 

With the patient’s cells, we use the most suitable method for the specific treatment.

Program Duration

The duration of the procedure is determined by the specific disease or the patient’s overall health. The program’s minimum duration could be:

• 3 days for programs with the use of donor cells.
• 5 days for programs using autologous, or own, cells from red bone marrow or stromal vascular fraction.

We only administer injections after receiving detailed test results to ensure there are no contraindications or risks. This means that we are unable to perform them on the first or last day of the program. Furthermore, these treatments and some supportive therapy, such as plasmapheresis procedures, cannot be carried out on the same day. 

Dosages

We take great care in measuring the exact number of stem cells needed for every individual case to achieve more consistent results.

For intravenous (IV) infusions in adults, we recommend a dose of 1 to 2 million cells for every kilogram of body weight.

In children, the dose can be higher, up to 3 million cells per kilogram.

For local administration, the doses we use range from 20 to 100 million cells, depending on the volume of liquid that can be injected safely.

Expected Time for Treatment Results

When thinking about ‘How does mesenchymal stem cell therapy work?’, one may wonder when the first results are coming. The effects of the treatment vary from person to person. For most conditions, a patient feels the maximum benefits within 1 to 3 months after starting the treatment. 

The positive effects last up to 6–12 months. In some cases, we see a positive effect up to several years.

Contraindications

In certain conditions or situations, we either do not proceed with the treatment or use it with caution:

1. Patients with a history of cancer (recurrence or remission of less than 5 years) should avoid the treatment.
2. Children under the age of 4 and weighing less than 14 kg should not receive intravenous (IV) infusions of the treatment because the use of cell therapy in such young children has not been sufficiently studied.
3. Patients with blood coagulation disorders also have limitations on some treatments. 

Side Effects

When considering how mesenchymal stem cells work and their potential benefits, it’s also important to be aware of any possible adverse effects. ​​These are possible undesirable reactions that sometimes occur after receiving the treatment:

• Short-term fever,
• Headaches,
• Malaise,
• Aches and pains in muscles,
• Nausea.

Most of these symptoms last only a few hours after the infusion. They may be relieved with painkillers or rest following the procedure.

Contact us

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of MSC therapy for your condition, schedule a no-obligation online consultation with our medical advisors. They can provide personalized advice and help address any concerns you may have.

Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

Your Name Please fill out this field Phone Please fill out this field E-mail Please fill out this field

I agree to the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy and Notice Swiss Medica