Source: Stem cell therapy may slow ALS functional decline, researchers say, ALS News Today, 19 Aug 2026. Summary written by Future Health GCC.

What happened

Researchers in Iran reviewed all the clinical evidence they could find on stem cell therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neurone disease. Their systematic review and meta-analysis was published in Stem Cells International.

What they looked at

The review covered 31 studies published between 2009 and 2023, involving 830 people with ALS. Seven studies compared treated patients with a control group; the other 24 looked at patients before and after treatment. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells were the most common type used, most often injected into the fluid around the spinal cord.

What they found

Stem cell therapies were generally well tolerated. Most side effects, such as headache, fever and back pain, were mild or temporary.

When the researchers combined data from three controlled trials, covering 52 treated patients and 52 controls, people given stem cells showed significantly less decline on the standard ALS functional rating scale. The before-and-after studies were less consistent.

How far along it is

The authors describe the evidence as preliminary. The studies varied widely in cell type, dose and method, and they say large, well-designed trials are needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn.

What it means for families

The review adds to evidence that stem cell therapy is reasonably safe in ALS and may slow the disease in some patients. It is not an approved treatment for ALS.

Read the original article on ALS News Today →

This is a summary of published research, written by Future Health GCC. It is not medical advice. Speak to your doctor about any treatment.

Photo: Diane A. Reid, via Wikimedia Commons (public domain).