Latest Information in Cell Biotechnology and Regenarative Medicine Autism Treatment with Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells

Summary of the results for the first phase of autism therapy with umbilical cord blood stem cells.

In 2015, Michael Chez, a neuroscientist at the Sutter Neuroscience Institute (Sacramento, California) gave an infusion of umbilical cord blood stem cells (that were preserved at birth) to 30 children with autism. The results of the doctor's report were more than optimistic, as more than 50% of the children showed improvements in their ability to communicate, as well as maintain social interactions and social relationships. 
In April 2017, Duke University officially published the results of the first phase of a clinical trial, which examined the safety and efficacy of using umbilical cord blood stem cells to treat young children with autism spectrum disorders. The study involved 25 children of both sexes, aged 2 to 5 years. The effectiveness of the clinical trial was assessed based on the parents reports and clinical tests. It was reported that over 60% of the participants experienced moderate to significant improvements, especially in language and social skills. Following these results, Duke University is now running a second trial involving 165 autistic children aged two to eight. A prerequisite for participation in the study are stored neonatal umbilical cord blood stem cells. 
The next day, following the publication of the results of the study, CNN broadcasted an interview with a family that was involved in the study. Parents reported that they have observed positive changes in the behaviour of their little daughter. (http://edition.cnn.com/2017/04/05/health/autism-cord-blood-stem-cells-duke-study).

References:

1. 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 Stem Cells Translational Medicine | 05 April 2017
2. Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of Umbilical Cord Blood to Improve Outcomes for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development | 04 April 2017