Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cellular therapies for neurological diseases in horses and dogs
By Colbath, Aimée C et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2024·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Review of cellular therapies provides new insights into the potential treatment of diverse neurologic diseases in horses and dogs.
Plain-English summary
A review of treatments for neurological diseases in dogs and horses highlights the potential of cellular therapies, such as stem cells, to help manage conditions like spinal cord injuries and intervertebral disc disease. These therapies may work by replacing damaged cells, reducing inflammation, and supporting nerve function. While some studies have shown promise with mesenchymal stem cells, more research is needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness. If your pet is suffering from a neurological issue, discussing these emerging treatment options with your veterinarian could be beneficial.
People also search for: dog spinal cord injury treatment · intervertebral disc disease in dogs · stem cell therapy for dogs
Abstract
Neurological diseases and injuries in veterinary patients (horses, dogs, and cats) are complex, and effective treatment options are limited. Neuronal loss, damage to nerve conduction pathways, and inflammation and scarring associated with spinal cord injury pose major challenges in managing many neurological diseases. Furthermore, most of these neuropathologies lack definitive pharmacological treatments, driving interest and research into novel interventions. Our objective is to provide a narrative review of the current literature surrounding cellular therapies including neuronal and glial stem cells, neurotrophic factors, mesenchymal stem or stromal cells, and cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells for the treatment of diverse neurological pathologies. Cellular therapies have the potential for cellular replacement, immune modulation, and paracrine signaling and the flexibility of being used alone or alongside surgical intervention. Mesenchymal stem or stromal cells are arguably the most researched cellular therapy and have been administered intrathecally, IV, intra-arterially, intranasally, and intraspinally with few adverse reactions. Limited clinical and experimental studies have suggested efficacy in diseases including acute spinal cord injury and intervertebral disc disease. Little is currently known about the safety and efficacy of neural stem cells, precursor cell administration, and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived treatments. Further research is necessary to determine the efficacy and long-term safety of cellular therapies. Future aims should include larger controlled clinical trials in companion animals for common neurologic conditions including acute spinal cord injury, intervertebral disc disease, peripheral nerve injury, degenerative neuropathies, and age-associated cognitive decline.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38437789/