Feasibility of Human Amniotic Fluid Derived Stem Cells in Alleviation of Neuropathic Pain in Chronic Constrictive Injury Nerve Model

PLoS ONE, 2016 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159482 · Published: July 21, 2016

Pain Management Genetics Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study explores the use of human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAFMSCs) to treat neuropathic pain, which is pain caused by nerve damage. The researchers used a rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI) to mimic neuropathic pain in humans. They administered hAFMSCs intravenously to the rats and assessed their pain levels and nerve function. The study found that hAFMSC treatment reduced inflammation and improved nerve function in the rats, leading to a decrease in neuropathic pain symptoms. This suggests that hAFMSCs could be a potential therapy for neuropathic pain in humans.

Study Duration

28 days

Participants

Sprague—Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
hAFMSCs attenuated the expression IL-1β, TNF-α and synaptophysin in dorsal root ganglion cell culture.
2
hAFMSCs restored the significant decrease of PGP 9.5 in the skin after CCI.
3
hAFMSCs alleviated the increased amplitude of sensory evoked potential as well as expression of synaptophysin and TNF-α expression.

Research Summary

This study investigates the potential of human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAFMSCs) to alleviate neuropathic pain in a rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI). The results demonstrated that intravenous administration of hAFMSCs significantly improved mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, as well as various parameters of CatWalk XT gait analysis, indicating a reduction in neuropathic pain. The study concludes that hAFMSCs administration could alleviate neuropathic pain by modulating the inflammatory response and improving histomorphological and neurobehavioral outcomes.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

hAFMSCs show promise as a potential therapy for neuropathic pain due to their immunomodulatory properties and ability to improve nerve function.

Clinical Translation

The findings support further research into the clinical application of hAFMSCs for treating neuropathic pain in humans.

Drug Development

The study identifies potential targets for drug development aimed at modulating the inflammatory response in neuropathic pain.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on a rat model, which may not fully replicate the complexities of neuropathic pain in humans.
2
The underlying mechanisms of hAFMSC-mediated pain relief require further investigation, particularly regarding cell homing and integration.
3
The long-term efficacy and safety of hAFMSC treatment for neuropathic pain need to be evaluated in future studies.

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