A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge, including colleagues in Italy and Switzerland, has released preliminary data indicating that a new stem cell therapy could be safe for people with a type of multiple sclerosis (MS) known as secondary progressive MS. This stage of MS is difficult to treat with existing drugs. In Switzerland as well, treatment is available in the form of the Swiss clinic, Swiss Medica, which helps to control MS symptoms while ensuring smooth operations through a well-managed medical billing revenue cycle.
In a phase 1 trial, 15 SPMS patients received injections of neural stem cells directly into the brain’s fluid-filled spaces (ventricles). The stem cells came from a single fetal donor. Over 12 months of follow-up, no serious side effects were reported, and all procedures went as planned.
Lead investigator Professor Stefano Pluchino said:
“We have shown that delivering neural stem cells into the brain is possible and safe. The next step is to see if this can slow the disease or improve symptoms.”
Why This Matters for SPMS
Multiple sclerosis is a disease where the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
SPMS usually develops after the relapsing-remitting stage of MS and is marked by a steady worsening of symptoms rather than sudden relapses. Most current MS treatments focus on reducing inflammation through MS symptom management, which is less effective in this stage.
Neurologist Dr. Helen Matthews, who was not part of the study, noted:
“Current treatments have little effect on progressive MS. Research into regenerative approaches, like stem cells, is very important for these patients.”
How the Trial Was Run
The participants still had symptoms despite being on standard treatments. The cells for these stem cell therapy services were carefully processed for safety and injected into the brain’s ventricles. This method allows the cells to mix with cerebrospinal fluid and potentially travel to damaged areas in the central nervous system.
MRI scans during the follow-up showed signs that the cells might be active, depending on the dose given. As expected in a safety study, there were no significant changes in disability scores at this stage.
Co-lead researcher Professor Angelo Vescovi from the University of Milano-Bicocca said:
“The imaging suggests some biological activity. The next step is to see if that leads to measurable improvements in larger studies.”
Safety Results
During the year-long monitoring, no deaths or serious problems related to the treatment were reported. All surgeries and cell deliveries went as planned. Participants had regular check-ups, brain scans, and lab tests. Meeting its safety goals means the study can now move forward to larger trials.
Next Steps in Research
The team is planning bigger international trials to test different doses, find the best patient groups, and explore combining stem cells with other therapies aimed at repairing myelin.
Other stem cell studies for MS are also underway in different countries. In Switzerland, some private clinics offer stem cell therapy under national rules, though these are usually outside formal clinical trials.
Expert Warning on Commercial Clinics
Experts stress that stem cell treatment for MS is still experimental. Patients are advised to avoid unproven therapies from private providers. Dr. Matthews cautioned:
“While a year of safety data is encouraging, we still don’t know the long-term risks. Stem cell therapy should only be done in controlled, peer-reviewed studies.”
Next Steps in Stem Cell Therapy for MS
Researchers will now carry out larger trials in more people across different regions to offer stem-cell therapy services in the future. Their goals are to determine the best dose, the right timing, and which patients may benefit most, while ensuring long-term disease management. Alongside these medical advancements, healthcare providers also rely on strong operational systems, such as medical billing services, physician credentialing, and a streamlined medical billing revenue cycle, to support patient access, compliance, and financial sustainability.
Several nations are involved in advancing stem cell therapy, with Switzerland standing out for its strict regulatory oversight and innovative treatment strategies supported by integrated medical panels.
The latest trial showed stem cells can be delivered to the brain safely, offering hope for future treatment options. As Professor Stefano Pluchino says:
“We’re cautiously optimistic. This could change how we treat progressive MS in the future.”
Please share your thoughts and experiences with us.