Overview of Stem Cell Transplant for MS Patients

Recent reports from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) highlight the transformative effects of stem cell transplant treatments originally used for cancer patients on individuals suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the UK. According to a January 18, 2016 report, this innovative approach has shown promising results in restoring mobility and reversing disability in MS patients.

Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)

The treatment, known as autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), involves the infusion of the patient’s own stem cells harvested from bone marrow. This procedure aims to rebuild the immune system, potentially resetting it to a state before it caused MS-related damage.

Testimonials and Clinical Results

Professors Basil Sharrack and John Snowden from Sheffield’s Royal Hallamshire Hospital emphasize the profound impact of HSCT on MS patients. Patients like Steven Storey, who experienced significant disability progression prior to treatment, have reported remarkable improvements in mobility and quality of life post-transplant.

Steven Storey’s Journey

Steven Storey, diagnosed with MS in 2013, transitioned from being an athlete to wheelchair-bound within a year. Following HSCT, he regained movement in his toes within days and achieved unaided standing after four months. While still using a wheelchair, Storey’s progress is described as astounding, allowing him to swim, cycle, and aspire to walk again.

The MIST International Clinical Trial

The Royal Hallamshire Hospital, alongside institutions in the US, Sweden, and Brazil, participates in the MIST trial. This international study evaluates the long-term benefits of HSCT on patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), aiming to establish its efficacy as a standard treatment option.

Future Prospects and Research

Prof Richard Burt of Northwestern University leads the MIST trial, pioneering HSCT for MS treatment since 1995. Despite challenges from the pharmaceutical and academic sectors, early studies have shown promising neurological disability reductions, with ongoing research poised to validate these findings further.

Conclusion and Outlook

As ongoing research continues to validate the potential of HSCT in treating MS, stakeholders like Emma Gray, M.D., head of clinical trials at the UK’s MS Society, emphasize its life-changing impacts highlighted by real patient experiences. The outcomes from the MIST trial, expected in 2018, could potentially integrate HSCT into the standard healthcare protocols for MS patients in the UK.