Ulcerative colitis is a chronic and painful autoimmune condition caused by uncontrolled inflammation. This inflammation leads to the formation of ulcers and injuries in the lining of the colon and rectum, triggered by T-cell infiltration and an ensuing inflammatory cascade.
The primary symptom of ulcerative colitis is blood in the stool. Other common symptoms include:
- Chronic mucous-like diarrhea lasting for weeks.
- Tenesmus: An urgent need to pass stool with little actual defecation.
- Fecal incontinence.
- Weight loss.
- Fatigue and fever.
- Iron-deficiency anemia.
- Aphthous ulcers in the mouth.
Ulcerative colitis is typically managed with medications similar to those used for inflammatory bowel disease. Common treatments include:
- 5-Aminosalicylates: Administered orally or rectally (via enema or suppository) to reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroids: Such as prednisone and budesonide, used for more effective inflammation control.
- Immunosuppressive Agents: Such as Imuran (azathioprine) or cyclosporine.
- TNF Inhibitors: Medications to neutralize Tumor Necrotic Factor, a key driver of flare-ups.
- Surgery: As a last resort, severely damaged sections of the colon may be surgically removed.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis
For patients with extensive colon damage, surgical removal is often recommended. However, autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy offers a safer and less invasive alternative. MSCs can be derived from the patient’s bone marrow or fat tissue. In cases where these are unavailable, MSCs can also be sourced from the placenta and cord tissue of unrelated donors.
Emerging research is exploring the use of MSC-derived nanoparticles, exosomes, or extracellular vesicles, which may offer similar therapeutic benefits without the direct use of MSCs. While this approach remains theoretical, it holds potential for future treatment options.
In addition to their anti-inflammatory properties, Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy may aid in regenerating tissue damaged by the inflammatory process, providing a promising avenue for repairing colon injuries caused by ulcerative colitis.
