AI Insight
Two patients with severe autoimmune disease affecting the spinal cord and optic nerve received stem cell therapy and have remained in remission for 15 years. The treatment appears to have successfully reset their immune systems, preventing further attacks on the nervous system. This represents the first documented long-term success of this therapeutic approach for this particular condition.
Why it matters
This demonstrates that stem cell therapy can provide durable, potentially permanent remission for severe autoimmune diseases that traditionally require lifelong management. The 15-year follow-up suggests the treatment may offer a one-time curative option rather than ongoing symptom control for patients with this debilitating neurological condition.
Understand the Science
Two people were the first to receive the therapy for a condition that damages the spinal cord and optic nerve
Source: Stem cells banish severe autoimmune disease for 15 years