autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NIBMT)

This is an investigational autologous cell therapy developed by the National Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplant (NIBMT) in Pakistan for the treatment of sub-acute and chronic spinal cord injury. The therapy involves harvesting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from the patient's own bone marrow (typically from the iliac crest), expanding them in vitro, and delivering them via intrathecal injection into the cerebrospinal fluid through a lumbar puncture. The mechanism of action is multifaceted, involving anti-inflammatory effects to reduce secondary damage, neurostimulation through the secretion of growth factors, and providing a physical bridge for axonal growth. There is also potential for the cells to differentiate into glial or neuronal lineages to replace damaged tissue and restore functional neuromuscular control and sensation.

Other names

autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cellsmesenchymal stem cells (NIBMT)autologous transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells