Immune system control ‘could be key to stem cell treatments’

Influencing the activity of the immune system could play a vital role in regulating the success of stem cell therapies in future, according to a new study.

The University of Southern California has published research showing different types of immune system T-cells can alternately discourage and encourage stem cells to regrow bone and tissue.

Normally, T-cells respond to the infusion of stem cells by producing cellular proteins interferon (INF)-gamma and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, which kills the implanted cells and prevents healing.

Conversely, using regulatory T-cells can minimise the presence of interfering INF-gamma and TNF-alpha, thus aiding the defect repair process.

Postdoctoral research associate and lead author Yi Liu said: "Based on what we've found, this should be the direction of more research in the future."

Last week, it was announced that University of Bristol spin-out company Azellon Cell Therapeutics is to begin a human trial of a groundbreaking new stem cell bandage, which could revolutionise treatment of torn meniscal cartilage.