Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

What is the treatment thought to do in the body?

Stem cells have the ability to become a range of different types of cell. Some stem cells are also known to respond to damage to tissues and other cells by releasing factors which promote repair and survival. Adipose-derived stem cells are taken from body fat. It is thought that injecting these cells into the spinal fluid will increase the survival of motor neurons. This has previously been shown in mouse models of MND.

Phase 2 

Current status: Collecting data

Primary objective: To test the safety and efficacy of injecting adipose-derived stem cells in people with MND.

The main aim of the study is to investigate whether injecting adipose-derived stem cells is safe in people with MND. The trial will also look at the effect of the treatment on clinical measures using the ALSFRS-R scale. In the study, adipose-derived stem cells will be grown from the body fat of the people who take part. The participants will then be injected with their own adipose-derived stem cells into their spinal fluid. This will be done through a lumbar puncture. Participants will receive stem cells every three months for a total of 1 year. The trial is open label, which means everyone on the trial will receive the stem cell treatment. You can find out more about the trial here. 

The trial is taking place in the USA.

Last updated: 05/06/25