Stem Cell Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Medically reviewed by Prof. Shimon Slavin, MD. Updated: August 2026

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord.

Stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS) includes different cellular approaches aimed at controlling the autoimmune process and potentially supporting neurological function. Two approaches studied in MS are mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT).

In MS, the immune system attacks myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers. Repeated inflammation and demyelination can disrupt communication within the central nervous system and, over time, contribute to neurological impairment and progressive disability.

Multiple sclerosis is primarily treated with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) designed to reduce inflammatory disease activity, relapses and the development of new lesions. Treatment options include oral, injectable and infusion therapies.

However, some patients continue to experience disease activity or progression despite treatment. In selected cases, particularly when conventional disease-modifying therapy has not provided adequate control, cellular approaches such as AHSCT or investigational MSC-based therapy may be considered.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being investigated in multiple sclerosis for their immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. These cells can be obtained from the patient’s own body or from donated placenta and umbilical cord tissue. MSCs have demonstrated the potential to differentiate toward oligodendrocyte-like cells and may also support remyelination through neuroprotective and paracrine mechanisms, including the release of bioactive signals that influence neighboring cells. MSCs also release extracellular vesicles, including exosomes, that carry bioactive molecules involved in cell-to-cell signaling. Preclinical studies suggest that these vesicles may reduce neuroinflammation and support oligodendrocyte function and remyelination.

Innovative targeting methods enhance the potential of circulating MSCs to reach the central nervous system (CNS). For example:

• Acoustic Shockwave Therapy (AST): Non-invasive low-energy shockwaves dilate blood vessels, increasing the flow of regulatory cells to the CNS.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Multi-color laser light stimulates circulating MSCs, enhancing their regenerative properties.
• Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS): This device can complement MSC-based therapies to optimize patient outcomes.

The combination of these supportive technologies — AST, LLLT, and dTMS — can be applied to both patients receiving MSCs expanded ex vivo and those treated with enriched autologous multipotent stem cells.

Based on our clinical experience, a substantial proportion of MS patients who had not responded adequately to conventional treatment have achieved meaningful neurological improvement following MSC-based therapy. In a number of cases, patients have experienced long-term clinical remission with no evidence of ongoing disease activity.

However, regulatory limitations remain. The use of MSCs expanded ex vivo in cell-processing centers is not approved for all indications in many countries. For this reason, MSC-based treatment for MS and other resistant autoimmune diseases is provided through our partner clinics in countries where these procedures can be performed in accordance with applicable local regulations.

Stem Cell Treatment for MS at Biotherapy International

Patients considering stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis first undergo an individual medical evaluation. Medical records, neurological history, MRI findings, previous MS treatments and current disease activity are reviewed before a treatment strategy is considered.

For selected patients, stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis in Germany may be provided through our partner medical center, in accordance with applicable local regulations.

Professor Shimon Slavin evaluates each case and determines whether cellular therapy may be appropriate and which treatment approach should be considered. If treatment is recommended, an individual protocol is prepared and carried out at a partner medical center.

Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (AHSCT)

AHSCT is a different form of stem cell treatment for multiple sclerosis. Its primary purpose is not to regenerate nervous tissue but to suppress and rebuild the immune system so that abnormally activated inflammatory immune cells stop attacking myelin.

Current evidence suggests that AHSCT can be particularly effective in selected patients with highly active relapsing MS who continue to experience disease activity despite disease-modifying treatment. Its role in non-active progressive MS is considerably more limited. Because AHSCT requires intensive conditioning and carries significant risks, careful patient selection is essential.

At Biotherapy International, selected patients may also be considered for a less intensive approach sometimes referred to as “micro-HSCT.” This strategy may combine immunosuppressive treatment with growth factors that mobilize the patient’s own stem and progenitor cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. The aim is to reduce abnormal immune activity while supporting immune reconstitution without the full intensity of conventional AHSCT. Suitability for this approach is evaluated individually.