Autism affects more families today than ever before, with 1 in 36 children in the U.S. diagnosed with the condition—an increase from the previous rate of 1 in 44. Stem cell therapy offers a promising avenue of hope. It uses the body's cells to repair or replace damaged tissues, potentially improving symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
This article will break down everything you need to know about stem cell therapy for autism—how it works, what to expect, where to seek help, and what it could mean for your child’s future.
Key takeaways:
- 🩹 Stem cells reduce inflammation and regulate the immune system in the brain, improving social, behavioral, and communication difficulties in autism.
- 🛡️ Clinical trials confirm stem cell therapy is safe for autistic children and report no significant side effects.
- 🌐 Stem cell therapy for autism is not approved by the FDA in the United States, meaning it's not covered by insurance and remains an experimental treatment. In Europe, countries like the Netherlands offer costs from $20,000 to $50,000. In contrast, countries like Mexico and Turkey offer options that cost 2-5 times less.
- 🗓️ The therapy lasts 3 to 9 days, with follow-up sessions recommended at least 6 months apart for the best results.
- 🪄 Most improvements from stem cell therapy appear within 1 to 3 months, with continued progress observed up to 12-18 months after treatment.
Learn more:
- Autism Treatment with Stem Cells: How it Works
- Accessibility and Cost
- Expected Outcomes
- Success Rate: Case Studies and Clinical Trials
- Age Limit
- Autism Spectrum Disorder: Brief Overview
- Autism Treatment: Other Options
- FAQ
Autism Treatment with Stem Cells: How it Works
👉 In autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the immune system is often out of balance, leading to chronic inflammation in the developing brain. This inflammation can disrupt the connections between neurons and cause social, behavioral, and communication difficulties.
👉 Stem cells naturally secrete small proteins called cytokines and growth factors, which can suppress this inflammatory environment in the brain.
👉 Studies also suggest that stem cells can help regulate the immune system and improve neural connectivity in the brain.
👉 By reducing inflammation and regulating the immune system, stem cells may improve brain function and ease some autism symptoms.
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Types of stem cells used in therapy
The two most commonly used types of stem cells are:
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
Also known as mesenchymal stromal cells, MSCs include stem cells derived from bone marrow and adipose-derived stem cells (from fat tissue). However, the most widely used mesenchymal stem cells for treating autism come from cord tissue.
- Mononuclear stem cells (MNCs)
MNCs are a mixed group of cells, including stem cells, immune cells, and other cell types, often harvested from umbilical cord blood or bone marrow. Among mononuclear cells, the most prevalently used for autism are cord blood mononuclear cells (CB-MNCs).
Both types have shown promise, but as of today, there is no definitive proof as to which stem cell therapy for autism is more effective. However, there are some differences that might influence the choice:
Criteria | Cord blood mononuclear cells | Cord tissue mesenchymal stem cells |
|---|---|---|
HLA matching | May require some HLA matching. | Less stringent matching. |
Cell dose | Higher cell doses due to the natural abundance of MNCs in blood. | Lower doses as mesenchymal stromal cells are isolated and cultured. |
Processing time | Quick processing—only a few hours. | Longer processing—can take up to a month. |
HLA Matching 🔄
Mononuclear cells may require some level of HLA (human leukocyte antigen) matching to be effective. On the other hand, mesenchymal stem cells typically require less strict matching, which could make them more accessible in some cases.
Cell Dose 💉
The cell doses available in mononuclear cell therapies are generally higher than those in mesenchymal stem cell therapies. This is because MSCs are isolated and cultured in a lab to create a more concentrated cell population. Conversely, MNCs naturally exist in blood, so they can be delivered more easily through the bloodstream.
Processing Time ⏱️
The biggest difference between these two types of stem cells is the processing time required to prepare them for therapy. Mononuclear cells can be processed relatively quickly—within a few hours—by spinning the blood to separate the MNC component. In contrast, preparing mesenchymal stem cells for therapy is a more time-consuming process. It involves several stages of cell growth in a laboratory, which can take up to a month to reach a therapeutic dose.
Other types of stem cells used in autism therapy
In addition to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and mononuclear stem cells (MNCs), researchers explore several other types of stem cells for their potential in treating autism. Each offers unique beneficial properties, though many are still in the experimental stages.
Here’s a brief overview:
- Fetal stem cells (FSCs)
Fetal stem cells are derived from fetal tissues. They are more versatile and easier to reprogram than adult stem cells. They exhibit strong immunomodulatory effects, similar to MSCs, but with a greater capacity for expansion and differentiation. FSCs are particularly interesting in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism because they can produce growth factors and other molecules that support the immune system and brain development. FSCs are taken from tissues that would otherwise be discarded. This makes them a more ethically acceptable option than embryonic stem cells (ESCs).
- Neural stem cells (NSCs)
Neural stem cells can develop into various types of brain cells, including neurons and glial cells. They are particularly promising for treating neurological conditions like autism because they can potentially repair or replace damaged cells and brain tissue. NSCs can integrate into existing neural circuits, promoting the repair of abnormal brain structures often seen in autism.
- Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs)
Hematopoietic stem cells are primarily responsible for forming blood and immune cells. They are found in bone marrow, blood, and the spleen. HSCs play a critical role in controlling inflammation and maintaining immune system balance. HSCs are already widely used in treating blood disorders and autoimmune diseases. In the context of autism, their ability to home in on inflamed areas and promote immune regulation makes them a potential therapeutic option.
Treatment protocol and administration
Stem cell therapy for autism follows a well-structured process to deliver the best results while ensuring patient safety. However, the treatment protocol varies depending on the healthcare provider and the patient's needs. Here’s how the autism treatment typically unfolds:
- Initial consultation and assessment 📝
The process starts with a thorough consultation. Doctors review the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and overall health to determine if they are a suitable candidate for stem cell therapy. This assessment often includes blood tests, imaging studies, and neurological evaluations to pinpoint the patient’s needs.
- Stem cell selection 🧫
Once doctors approve stem cell therapy for autism, they select the appropriate type of stem cells. The cells can be harvested from the patient’s own body (autologous) or a donor (allogeneic).
- Harvesting and processing of stem cells 🔬
If using autologous cells, doctors harvest them from the patient’s bone marrow, adipose (fat) tissue, or blood. For allogeneic cells, they use cord blood or cord tissue banks. After harvesting, the stem cells undergo processing to isolate and concentrate them. For MSCs, this process might involve culturing the cells in a lab, which can take several weeks.
- Autism treatment duration 📅
The therapy typically involves multiple sessions spread out over months. This approach allows the patient’s body time to respond and the medical team to monitor progress. Each session includes a new infusion or injection of stem cells, depending on the treatment plan.
- Administration of stem cells 💉
The method of administering stem cells depends on the type and the goals of the therapy:
- Intravenous (IV) infusion. The most common method delivers stem cells directly into the bloodstream, allowing them to reach the brain and reduce inflammation.
- Intrathecal injection. In some cases, doctors inject stem cells directly into the cerebrospinal fluid around the spinal cord. This method targets the brain more directly.
- Targeted injections. For specific symptoms or areas, stem cells may be injected directly into targeted tissues or organs.
Doctors typically perform these procedures on an outpatient basis so patients can go home on the same day. The medical team chooses the method and location of administration based on what’s best for the patient.
- Post-treatment care and monitoring 👩⚕️
After each session, doctors closely monitor the patient to track progress and watch for any adverse reactions. Regular follow-up appointments help evaluate the therapy’s effectiveness and allow for adjustments. Since the treatment involves multiple sessions, continuous monitoring ensures gradual symptom improvements.
Accessibility and Cost
While stem cell therapy offers new hope for autism treatment, it is still considered experimental, which impacts both its accessibility and cost.
🗽 In the United States, the only stem cell therapy currently approved by the FDA is bone marrow transplantation for certain blood cancers and immune system disorders. As a result, major insurance providers in the U.S. do not cover stem cell therapy for autism, recommending conventional treatments instead. However, multiple successful clinical trials in the U.S. suggest that stem cell treatments may eventually become more accessible.
🌷 If you're considering Europe, the Netherlands is a top option for advanced stem cell therapy. Similar to other Western European countries, the cost in the Netherlands ranges from $20,000 to $50,000. However, this price is justified by the country’s strong scientific community and rigorous regulatory oversight.
🌍Countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Turkey have become popular destinations for stem cell therapy. They have fewer regulatory hurdles and allow for a broader range of treatments. Additionally, you can expect stem cell therapy to cost 2-5 times lower than in the U.S. and Western Europe.
Cost breakdown:
- Worldwide average: $4,000 to $22,000.
- United States and Western Europe: $20,000 and $50,000 per treatment (bone marrow transplant costs reach up to $300,000).
💚These costs are based on Bookimed's analysis of the market and partner clinics’ offers. Bookimed works with over 1,200 treatment centers and 3,300 doctors in 50 countries, providing a broad overview of treatment options across the globe.
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✈️💰 Find out more about the best countries for stem cell therapy and costs worldwide.
Expected Outcomes of Stem Cell Therapy for Autism
Stem cell therapy for autism holds promise, but the expected outcomes can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition, the type of stem cells used, and how the patient’s body responds to the treatment.
The main aims of stem cell treatments are:
- Improvements in social interaction and communication 🗣️
Studies show that after stem cell therapy, children show enhanced social skills. This might include better eye contact, more appropriate responses in social situations, and increased interest in interacting with others. Communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, may also improve. Some children show a better ability to express themselves and understand others.
- Reduction in repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity 💥
One of the key goals of stem cell therapy for autism is to reduce repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity. Parents may notice a decrease in these behaviors, leading to a more manageable and predictable daily routine. This can result in less frustration for both the child and their caregivers.
- Enhanced cognitive function 🧠
Stem cell therapy aims to improve overall brain function, which can lead to enhanced cognitive abilities. Children may experience better focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. This improvement can translate into better performance in school and daily activities.
- Reduction in gastrointestinal issues 🌱
Children diagnosed with autism often experience gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Regenerative medicine research shows some promise that stem cell therapy could help alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation in the gut.
- Improved behavior and mood 😊
Behavioral improvements are another potential outcome of stem cell therapy for autism. Parents might observe a reduction in aggressive behaviors, tantrums, or self-injury. Additionally, the treatment may positively influence the child’s mood and lead to a more balanced emotional state.
- Long-term developmental gains 🚀
Stem cell therapy can also contribute to long-term developmental gains. Over time, children undergoing therapy may reach developmental milestones more consistently and show sustained progress in learning, socialization, and self-care.
❗ While many families report positive changes after stem cell therapy for autism, the clinical outcomes are highly individualized. Not all children will experience the same level of improvement, and some may respond better than others. This type of autism treatment is still relatively new. Research is ongoing to fully understand the factors influencing outcomes.
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Stem Cell Therapy for Autism Success Rate: Case Studies and Clinical Trials
To understand how well stem cell therapy works for autism spectrum disorder, checking out the latest regenerative medicine studies is your best bet. Stem cell research has yielded several promising results. Here are some of the most significant findings:
📊 Improvements in core autism symptoms
Several clinical trials have shown that stem cell therapy can cause significant improvements in the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. For example, research published in The American Journal of Stem Cells highlighted the following improvements:
- 🧘♂️ Sitting tolerance. 86% of autism patients could sit calmly for longer periods.
- 🫡 Following commands. 84% of patients showed better responsiveness to instructions.
- 🙇♀️ Attention and concentration. 81% of patients demonstrated enhanced focus and concentration.
- 👀 Eye contact. 80% of patients improved their ability to make eye contact.
- 🫂 Social interaction. 67% of patients experienced better social interactions.
- 💬 Speech and communication: 61% of patients improved in speech, with 60% showing overall better communication skills.
These improvements were supported by statistically significant changes on standardized autism scales. For example, 95% of patients had improved scores on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). This means stem cell therapy had a real, measurable impact on the children's behavior and abilities.
😇 Another clinical trial found that stem cell therapy using umbilical cord blood significantly improved behaviors such as hyperactivity, social withdrawal, and repetitive actions.
📊 Enhancements in brain activity
The American Journal of Stem Cells study also looked at changes in brain activity before and after stem cell therapy using advanced imaging techniques. The results were compelling:
- 📈 Areas of the brain that had reduced activity before treatment showed increased activity afterward.
- 📉 Regions with excessive activity showed a decrease, indicating a rebalancing of brain function.
📊 Encouraging results from case reports
🔎 Case studies provide a window into personal experiences and reveal the nuanced effects of treatment that broader studies might miss.
👦 A case report in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences highlighted the impact of stem cell transplants on a child with severe autism. The child, previously non-verbal, began speaking after treatment. The patient showed a 27% reduction in autism severity, according to the GARS-2 assessment.
👬 Another case study focused on 2 children with severe autism treated with mesenchymal stem cells from the umbilical cord tissue. The study found:
- 📉 Reduction in autism severity. The severity, as measured by the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), decreased from an average score of 43.25 to 31.25.
- 📈 Improved social and communication skills. Both autistic children showed substantial social interaction and communication improvements. For example, they went from using only 1-2 words to forming sentences of 4-5 words.
📊 Overall safety and efficacy
The above stem cell research, as well as systematic reviews of data from other regenerative medicine studies, draw similar conclusions:
- 📉 Autism severity, as measured by CARS, is significantly lower in the stem cell treatment group compared to the control group.
- 🛡️ Stem cell therapy does not cause severe adverse reactions.
Age Limit for Stem Cell Autism Treatment
There is no strict age limit for stem cell therapy, but research consistently shows that younger patients tend to experience better outcomes. While older patients may still benefit from the treatment, the effectiveness decreases as the patient’s age increases and the time since diagnosis lengthens. Starting therapy during the early school years, between ages 3 and 7, is optimal.
🔎 A clinical trial found that patients under 10 years old and those who received treatment sooner after diagnosis (within 5 years) showed the best results with stem cell therapy.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Brief Overview
To grasp how stem cell therapy could benefit those with autism spectrum disorder, it's worth looking at the key aspects of autism itself.
Types of autism
Currently, specialists view autism as a continuous spectrum. This means that conditions previously considered separate are now all categorized under the broad term “autism spectrum disorders” (ASD). However, you might still encounter these older terms, so it’s helpful to understand what they mean:
- Asperger's syndrome. This was once considered a milder form of autism. Individuals with Asperger's have high intelligence and can manage daily life but may struggle with social interactions. They may also develop intense interests and talk about them extensively.
- Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). This diagnosis included those whose symptoms were more severe than Asperger's but not as intense as autistic disorder.
- Autistic disorder. This term described more severe autism symptoms compared to Asperger’s and PDD-NOS.
- Childhood disintegrative disorder. This rare and severe form of autism involved children who developed normally but then lost social, language, and cognitive skills rapidly, usually between ages 2 and 4. These children often develop seizure disorders as well.
Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder
Autism spectrum disorder presents a wide range of symptoms, which vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
- 🤝 Social interaction. Difficulty understanding and responding to social cues, making eye contact, and forming relationships.
- 💬 Communication challenges. Delays in speech development, difficulty holding conversations, and unusual speech patterns.
- 🔄 Repetitive behaviors. Engaging in repetitive actions or having a strong attachment to specific routines or rituals.
- 💢 Sensory sensitivities. Overreacting or underreacting to sensory input such as sounds, lights, or textures.
Experts explore stem cell therapy for its potential to alleviate these symptoms by targeting the biological processes involved.
Causes of autism
The exact causes of autism are not fully understood, but research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors:
- Immune system dysfunction. Clinical trials suggest that immune dysfunction might be both a cause and effect of autism. Stem cell therapy leverages the immunoregulatory properties of stem cells to manage and improve these issues.
- Inflammatory responses. Exposure to harmful stimuli, such as toxins, bacteria, or trauma, can trigger inflammation in the body. Prolonged inflammation may contribute to the development of autism. Stem cells can modulate the activity of immune cells, such as T-cells, B-cells, and macrophages. By influencing them, stem cells help shift the immune responses from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory, reducing chronic inflammation.
- Cytokine imbalance. Individuals with autism often have altered levels of cytokines—proteins crucial for cell communication. Stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), secrete cytokines and help restore balance.
- Genetic factors. Some genetic studies have linked specific points on the genome (loci) to autism, particularly those related to immune function. Stem cells can potentially target and repair these genetic abnormalities by promoting the regeneration of healthy cells.
- Neurological factors. Anomalies in the pathways that direct neuron communication might also contribute to autism. Stem cell therapy might repair these pathways by promoting the growth of new, healthy neurons. By enhancing the brain's ability to regenerate neural networks, stem cells could improve cognitive and behavioral functions in individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Autism Treatment: Other Options
While stem cell therapy is an exciting development, there are other well-established methods of managing autism spectrum disorder. These treatments can often work in tandem with stem cell therapy for more extensive care.
Stem cell therapy works on a biological level, repairing neural pathways and regulating the immune system. Other treatments like behavioral therapies, speech therapy, and medications address cognitive, social, and behavioral aspects. Together, they can simultaneously target both the underlying biological factors and the everyday challenges faced by people with autism.
1. Behavioral therapies
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) remains one of the most effective treatments for autism. By reinforcing positive behaviors and reducing negative ones, ABA helps improve social skills, communication, and learning abilities.
2. Speech and language therapy
Speech therapy helps people with autism spectrum disorders who struggle with communication. This therapy enhances language skills to help patients express themselves more effectively.
3. Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy for autism focuses on developing essential life skills such as dressing, eating, and interacting with others. It also addresses sensory processing issues.
4. Medications
While no medication specifically treats autism, certain drugs can help manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity. These medications work alongside other therapies.
5. Dietary interventions
Parents may try a gluten-free/casein-free diet for their children with autism. The idea is that kids with autism might be more sensitive to proteins in gluten (found in wheat) or casein (found in dairy). Although research on the topic is lacking, some studies confirm that autistic children indeed have unusual levels of certain proteins in their bodies.
In any case, children with autism spectrum disorders should get proper nutrition. They often have thinner bones, so foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, like milk and leafy greens, are essential.
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❗ There’s no definitive cure for autism, but these approaches can significantly improve patients’ social functioning, learning, and quality of life. The treatments your child benefits from the most will depend on their situation and needs, but the goal remains the same: to reduce symptoms and enhance development.
FAQ
Is stem cell therapy safe for kids?
Clinical trials unequivocally support the safety of stem cell therapy for children with autism. They also report no major procedure-related adverse effects. Additionally, they document positive effects in alleviating symptoms of autism spectrum disorders.
What are the potential risks and side effects of stem cell therapy for autism?
A systematic research review reports no serious side effects of stem cell therapy for autism across multiple studies. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and minor side effects that could occur.
These include:
- Agitation. In children with autism, agitation may occur, possibly due to the stress of medical procedures like sedation or IV placement.
- Mild symptoms. Fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, or lower back pain (lumbago).
📌 Patients with a history of seizures may experience an episode, but doctors at stem cell treatment centers can effectively manage these with medication. One clinical trial reports that these seizures did not affect the overall therapy outcome, and significant improvements were still present.)
An experienced medical team can successfully manage these side effects if any occur. By choosing Bookimed's services, you can be sure of expert care during stem cell therapy.
How many days does the treatment take?
Stem cell treatment lasts 3 to 9 days, with one injection and possibly some non-invasive procedures, like inhalations, each day. After the initial medical treatment, doctors may recommend follow-up sessions, at least 6 months apart, to maximize improvements.
How long does stem cell therapy for autism take to work, and will it last?
Results from stem cell therapy for autism typically become noticeable within 1 to 3 months after treatment. Most changes occur within the first 6 months. They tend to be sustained or even further enhanced by the 12-month mark. Some studies observe continued progress up to 18 months after treatment.
How to prepare for the treatment?
- Consultation with specialists. Before starting treatment, it's essential to have thorough consultations with healthcare providers. Bookimed can connect you with top specialists worldwide. They will assess your child’s condition, discuss expectations, and outline the treatment plan.
- Medical evaluations. The patient may need to undergo a series of medical tests, including blood tests, imaging scans, and neurological assessments.
- Medications and supplements. Your doctor may recommend adjusting or stopping certain medications or supplements before the procedure.
- Emotional preparation. Both the patient and their family should be emotionally prepared for the treatment process. Learning about the procedure and potential outcomes can help reduce anxiety.
- Logistics planning. Plan the logistics for the treatment, including travel, accommodation, and any necessary paperwork. Bookimed can assist you with all these arrangements so you can focus on the treatment itself.
- Post-treatment care plan. Discuss and plan for post-treatment care with your medical team, including follow-up visits, ongoing therapies, and any lifestyle changes.
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- Frontiers in Pediatrics. (2022). Efficacy and Safety of Stem Cell Therapy in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35601435/
- American Journal of Stem Cells. (2020). Cell transplantation as a novel therapeutic strategy for autism spectrum disorders: a clinical study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33489466/
- European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences. (2020). Autism treatment with stem cells: a case report. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32767334/
- JScholar. (2020). A Case Study on Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Using Allogenic Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from the Human Umbilical Cord. https://www.jscholaronline.org/articles/CROA/A-Case-Study-on-Autism-Spectrum.pdf
- Trends in Pharmacological Sciences. (2020). Mesenchymal Stem Cell Immunomodulation: Mechanisms and Therapeutic potential. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7751844/
- STEM CELLS Translational Medicine. (2018). Safety and Observations from a Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study to Assess Use of Autologous Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells to Improve Symptoms in Children with Autism. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29405603/
- STEM CELLS Translational Medicine. (2017). Autologous Cord Blood Infusions Are Safe and Feasible in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a Single‐Center Phase I Open‐Label Trial. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5442708/
- Stem Cells International. (2013). Perspectives on the Use of Stem Cells for Autism Treatment. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3810518/
- Frontiers in Immunology. (2013). Therapeutic Role of Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Related Inflammation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3677147/
- Journal of Translational Medicine. (2013). Transplantation of human cord blood mononuclear cells and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells in autism. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3765833/
- Stem Cells and Cloning. (2018). Stem cell therapy in autism: recent insights. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6204871/
- WebMD. (2023). Gluten-Free/Casein-Free Diets for Autism. https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/gluten-free-casein-free-diets-for-autism