Millions Battling Their Bodies: A Global Rise in Autoimmune Diseases
As reported earlier by MedReport Foundation, the global rise in autoimmune diseases after the COVID-19 pandemic is concerning. Millions face a unique enemy: their own immune system.
In autoimmune diseases, your body becomes your battlefield
Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and lupus, are often associated with chronic pain, inflammation, and tissue damage. Traditional treatments might be like trying to calm down a rioting crowd – not very targeted and potentially risky.
Introducing CAR-MSCs: A Ray of Hope in the Fight
But there's promising news on the horizon! Researchers have developed a revolutionary approach called CAR-MSC therapy.
You might be familiar with CAR-T therapy, which uses engineered cells to fight cancer. CAR-MSC therapy takes a similar approach, but instead of targeting cancer cells, it targets the overactive immune response in autoimmune diseases.
Supercharged Stem Cells to the Rescue: CAR-MSCs Explained
CAR-MSC therapy uses two powerful tools:
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs): These act as peacekeepers. They have amazing properties to calm the overactive immune system and promote healing. However, sometimes they struggle to reach the "battlefield" (inflamed tissues).
Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs): These are searchlights engineered to find specific targets. In this case, CARs are designed to identify proteins involved in autoimmune diseases.
The Magic of Combining Forces: Peacekeepers Find Their Way!
When scientists combine MSCs with CARs, the negotiators (i.e. the MSCs) are now equipped with high-tech gadgets to find the troublemakers (specific proteins) in the inflamed area. This empowers them to:
Target the Right Enemy: The CARs guide the CAR-MSCs directly to the inflamed areas.
Calm the Storm: Once there, the MSCs release calming signals to downregulate the overactive immune response and promote healing.
Early Signs of Success in the Fight Against Autoimmunity
Early studies in mice show promise! CAR-MSCs effectively targeted inflamed areas, reduced inflammation, and improved overall health. Researchers are excited about using CAR-MSCs to treat a wide range of autoimmune diseases in the future.
The Future of CAR-MSC Therapy: Hope for Millions
While this is early research, the potential is huge. Future studies will focus on safety and effectiveness in humans, paving the way for potential clinical trials.
This innovative therapy offers a glimmer of hope for millions living with autoimmune diseases. CAR-MSC therapy has the potential to be a game-changer, providing a more targeted and potentially long-lasting treatment option compared to traditional medications.
Sources:
https://www.medreport.foundation/post/increase-in-autoimmunity-after-covid-19-pandemic Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board