The primary focus of traditional treatments for Parkinson’s is simply on managing symptoms. There is no significant improvement in quality of life. However, stem cell therapy is emerging as a groundbreaking approach. And Plexus is at the forefront of stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s in Bangalore.
What is Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, chronic, and degenerative brain disorder that impairs muscle control, balance, and movement. It results in the deterioration of the cells in substantia nigra (in the basal ganglia). It inhibits the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, the happy hormone. As the disease progresses, the neurons in the brain completely deteriorate. This leads to severe motor impairment, tremor, stiffness, slowed or delayed movement, dysphagia, sleep issues, fatigue, difficulty in speech, etc.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s patients may experience any or a combination of the below symptoms:
- Tremor
- Slurred speech
- Poor coordination and balance
- Shaky fingers, hands, or lips
- Numbness or weakness in the limbs
- Spastic limb movements
- Difficulty in standing up after sitting for a long duration and vice versa
- Loss of muscle control in first one side of the body and then the other
- Loss of control over movements like blinking or smiling
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
- Depression and anxiety
- Drooling
- Hypomimia or masked face
- Micrographia or small handwriting
- Dizzy spells
- Stooped posture
- Dragging of feet
- Slowing of movement (bradykinesia)
- Dysphagia
- Hypophonia or unusually soft voice
- Dyskinesia or involuntary movement such as jerks, twitches, and twisting movements that are uncontrollable
Causes of Parkinson’s
Research indicates Parkinson’s may be caused by genetic predisposition or exposure to certain toxic chemicals. It can be a result of faulty genes in the extended family. In fact, studies have shown adults as young as 20 years diagnosed with Parkinson’s may very likely have a sibling with the same condition.
Although not conclusively proved, the impact of herbicides and pesticides in agriculture, air pollution and other contaminants on the risk of Parkinson’s is still debatable.
Very simply put, there is no exact cause of Parkinson’s.
The Limitations of Traditional Treatments
It is believed that medication is the most effective method of managing the symptoms of PD. It helps in increasing the level of dopamine that reaches the brain and stimulates the parts of the brain where dopamine works. However, medication may have a different impact on different individuals. Some important drugs for PD are: Levodopa, Dopamine Agonists, Apomorphine, Glutamate Antagonist, Anticholinergics, COMT inhibitors, MAO-B inhibitors.
While traditional treatments are known to provide symptomatic relief, they are unable address the root cause of Parkinson’s disease, that is the degeneration of neurons. Additionally, the long-term use of certain medications have also been known to lead to side effects, such as excessive involuntary movements, sleep disturbances, hallucinations, and memory problems. Surgical interventions carry inherent risks. With all of these caveats, more and more patients are turning towards alternative therapies. Among these, stem cell therapy is emerging as the most preferred treatment option. Why, you ask? Let’s find out.
Stem Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the incredible ability to develop into various cell types. This unique feature makes them the ideal choice for regenerative medicine, especially in neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
Healthy stem cells are introduced into the brain to replace damaged or lost neurons, and restore normal functioning in the brain. The procedure holds immense promise for slowing or even halting the progression of Parkinson’s disease. At Plexus Bangalore, we use mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as part of our customized regenerative rehabilitation program for Parkinson’s. The regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs make them a compelling candidate for addressing the complex pathology of Parkinson’s.
Let’s take a look at the characteristics of MSCs and how they help improve the quality of life patients with Parkinson’s:
Regenerative Ability
Neuronal Differentiation
MSCs can differentiate into various cell types, including neurons. Once they are introduced into the brain, they have the potential to replace damaged or lost dopamine-producing neurons, thereby slowing down progression of Parkinson’s.
Neurotrophic Factor Production
MSCs secrete neurotrophic factors that support the survival and growth of existing neurons. This neuroprotective effect is vital in preventing further degeneration of dopamine-producing cells.
Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects
Reducing Neuroinflammation
Neuroinflammation in Parkinson’s leads to neuronal damage. MSCs’ anti-inflammatory properties help modulate the inflammatory response, and in doing so create a more favorable environment for neuronal survival.
Immunomodulation
MSCs’ ability to modulate the immune system, suppress harmful immune responses and promote an anti-inflammatory environment, can significantly reduce the autoimmune component often associated with Parkinson’s.
Enhancing Neuroplasticity
Promoting Synaptic Connectivity
MSCs can enhance synaptic connectivity between neurons. This is critical for restoring functional connections in the brain, improving motor and cognitive functions affected by Parkinson’s.
Reducing Motor Symptoms
Improving Motor Function
Clinical trials and studies have indicated improvements in motor function and behavioral outcomes in patients with Parkinson’s post MSC treatment. By differentiating into dopamine-producing neurons or promoting the survival of existing neurons, MSCs may contribute to the restoration of dopamine levels, alleviating motor symptoms.
The Bangalore Advantage
Conveniently located in the heart of India’s silicon valley, Plexus Bangalore offers advanced stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. Founded by Dr Na’eem Sadiq, India’s foremost stem cell specialist, Plexus Bangalore has a team of expert stem cell specialists and neurologists with over 35 years of clinical experience, and 70+ awards to their name. We offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, compassionate care, and a rehabilitation program that is customized to suit your individual needs and goals.
Stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s is a paradigm shift in the approach to treating the condition. At Plexus, we are committed to bring the transformative impact of stem cell therapy on the lives of Parkinson’s patients.
Reach out to our team in Bangalore today.
WhatsApp +91 89048 42087
+91 82299 99888 (Bangalore)
You can also visit our website www.plexusnc.com to know more about stem cell therapy in Bangalore.
