Stem Cell Treatment Proven to Reduce Parkinson's Symptoms

Source: Tiantan Puhua Neurosurgical Hospital
Posted: October 24, 2006 9:54 am ET

Summary:

Doctors at Tiantan Puhua Neurosurgical Hospital announced the first known successful stem cell therapy treatment in China, and one of the first in the world, of an American citizen inflicted with the debilitating Parkinson's disease. The new treatment introduces 'Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial cells' (hRPE) to patients' bodies causing them to naturally produce Dopamine, enhancing Dopamine levels in the brain. The doctors are hopeful this treatment could applied to other neurological conditions and other central nervous system disorders.

Commentary: It will be important for these results to be replicated in a large and diverse patient population over a long period of time to ensure that the results are valid and the treatment can truly be considered effective.