Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication problems, and repetitive behaviors.
Although there is no definitive treatment for autism spectrum disorder today, various therapy methods are used to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of individuals. In this context, stem cell therapy stands out as a promising research area for understanding the biological basis of ASD and developing new treatment approaches.
Although the potential of stem cells to transform into different cell types and repair damaged tissues makes this therapy attractive for use in ASD, studies in this area are still in their early stages. In-depth examination of the relationship between ASD and stem cell therapy may shape the future role of this innovative approach.
How can stem cells play a role in treating autism?
Understanding the Disease: Stem cells have the ability to develop into different types of cells. Researchers are studying the biological basis of ASD by using stem cells to create small models of the cerebral cortex (organoids). In organoids obtained from individuals with ASD, neurons have been observed to mature faster than normal. Such studies may help understand the causes of autism, which has no known genetic link.
Developing New Drugs: Growing neurons obtained from individuals with ASD in a laboratory environment allows researchers to test new drugs on a personalized basis.
Cell Replacement: ASD is thought to be caused by abnormalities in neural networks rather than a lack of nerve cells. Therefore, simply adding new cells may not solve the problem. More research is needed before stem cell treatments can be routinely used in ASD.
CD47 Protein and Autism Relationship
A study from Stanford University’s Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine has revealed that a protein called CD47 may play a role in brain growth abnormalities associated with ASD.
Key Findings of the Study:
- CD47 Protein and the “Don’t Eat Me” Signal: CD47 sends a “don’t eat me” signal to immune cells, preventing them from being destroyed by the immune system.
- 16p11.2 Deletion and Brain Growth: The 16p11.2 deletion is associated with ASD, and individuals with this genetic change often have a larger-than-normal brain volume (macrocephaly).
- CD47 Overproduction: Researchers found that brain progenitor cells from individuals carrying the 16p11.2 deletion overproduce the CD47 protein, and therefore cells that would normally be destroyed are not recognized by the immune system and accumulate.
- Treatment with Anti-CD47 Antibody: The use of antibodies that block CD47 signaling has been shown to prevent abnormal cells from growing in vitro and in mouse models.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that the CD47 protein may play an important role in brain growth abnormalities associated with ASD. Treatments targeting CD47 signaling may offer a potential approach to addressing brain developmental issues in individuals with ASD, particularly those with genetic alterations such as the 16p11.2 deletion. However, more research is needed to determine whether these treatments are safe and effective in humans.
Differences in Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) Scores
In a study published by Front Pediatr in June 2024, Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) scores were found to be significantly lower in the stem cell treatment group compared to the control group. This suggests that the treatment improved autism symptoms. The study concluded as follows:
Stem cell therapy may be a safe and effective option for children with ASD. However, due to the small sample size of existing studies, non-standardized treatment protocols, and lack of long-term follow-up, more research is needed.
Parents are advised to carefully evaluate before participating in treatment. The effectiveness of stem cell therapy can be further increased by developing standard treatment methods.
Collaboration for Stem Cell Transplantation and Educational Intervention
In a study published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine in 2020, a study was conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMNC) transplantation and educational intervention in children with ASD.
At the end of the study conducted on 30 children diagnosed with ASD according to DSM-5 criteria and with CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale) scores above 37, a significant decrease in ASD severity, improvement in adaptive behaviors, significant improvements in social communication, language and daily living skills, and a decrease in repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity were observed.
The combination of autologous BMMNC transplantation and educational intervention is considered a safe and well-tolerated approach in children with ASD. However, these findings need to be supported by larger-scale and controlled studies.
Temporary Improvements in Adaptive Behaviors
Other Some studies have shown that stem cell therapy can provide temporary improvements in social skills and adaptive behaviors. However, it is thought that these improvements may be due to natural developmental processes.
No serious side effects have been observed in stem cell therapy. However, the lack of standardization in treatment protocols makes it difficult to assess overall safety. There is insufficient information about the long-term effects of stem cell therapy.
Research Shows Hope
As a result, according to research results, there is no definitive treatment for autism spectrum disorder and many approaches, including stem cell therapy, are still in the experimental stage. However, studies in this area are promising.
Although stem cell therapy does not completely cure autism, it can stand out as a useful method for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life of individuals. More comprehensive, long-term and controlled studies are needed to prove the effectiveness and safety of the therapy. However, the findings continue to be a glimmer of hope in developing more effective solutions for individuals with autism and their families.
Sources:
- https://med.stanford.edu/stemcell/news/iscbrmarticles/cd47autism.html
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2022.897398
- https://academic.oup.com/stcltm/article/10/1/14/6403990?login=false
- https://stemcellsaustralia.edu.au/conditions/explore/autism/
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1287879