Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or motor-neuron disease, is a progressive disorder that weakens muscles and limits movement, speech, and breathing. Traditional medication slows decline only modestly. In 2025, worldwide research is giving new hope through umbilical-cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) — a therapy designed to protect neurons, calm inflammation, and extend quality of life.

At EDNA Wellness, we provide ALS-focused regenerative programs built on TISTR-certified GMP production, ensuring transparent, evidence-based care.

Understanding ALS
ALS gradually destroys upper and lower motor neurons, which transmit signals from the brain to muscles. When these neurons die, voluntary movement stops.
Typical symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness in arms or legs
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Cramping, twitching, or spasticity
• Gradual breathing impairment

The disease often progresses within 3–5 years after diagnosis

Why Stem Cells Offer Hope

Unlike conventional drugs that target single pathways, stem cells work on multiple biological fronts:

1. Neuro-protection – UC-MSCs release growth factors (BDNF, GDNF, VEGF) that keep motor neurons alive.
2. Anti-inflammatory action – they regulate microglia and suppress toxic cytokines.
3. Angiogenesis – improve spinal-cord oxygenation.
4. Mitochondrial repair – restore energy metabolism within neurons (Chen et al., 2024).
5. Immune balancing – reduce autoimmune-like attacks against nervous tissue.

These mechanisms together can slow disease progression and stabilize function.

Recent Breakthroughs in ALS Research (2023 – 2025)

• Repeated Intrathecal UC-MSC Infusion (Korea): A phase II trial showed slower decline in ALSFRS-R scores with monthly UC-MSC injections compared to placebo (Oh et al., 2022).
• Global Multi-center Trial (Europe / US): Combined IV + intrathecal MSCs improved breathing capacity and reduced inflammatory markers (Bermúdez et al., 2023).
• Review of 12 studies confirmed strong safety and functional benefit lasting up to 6 months (Zhao et al., 2024).

These results have led to inclusion of MSC therapy in early-stage clinical guidelines in several countries.

How UC-MSCs Differ from Other Cell Types

Cell Source	Advantages	Limitations
Bone Marrow MSC	Autologous, lower immune risk	Older donor age reduces potency
Adipose MSC	Easily harvested	Variable purity
Umbilical-Cord MSC (UC-MSC)	Young, ethically sourced, high growth factor output	Requires GMP screening for safety

Because UC-MSCs come from medical-grade cord tissue after healthy births, they contain highly active trophic factors and very low immunogenicity — ideal for allogeneic use

Administration Routes & Protocols

Route	Description	Purpose
Intravenous (IV)	Systemic anti-inflammatory infusion	Whole-body immune regulation
Intrathecal (Spinal)	Injection into cerebrospinal fluid	Direct neuro-protective effect on motor neurons
Combined Approach	Sequential IV + intrathecal sessions	Used in research for broader benefit

EDNA Wellness follows published dosing ranges (≈ 1–2 × 10⁷ cells per session) and monitors neurological function pre- and post-therapy.

Safety and Regulation

• All UC-MSCs are processed in GMP facilities certified by TISTRtested for viability and sterility.
• No use of steroids or unverified additives.
• Adverse effects are rare and mild — temporary headache or fatigue.
• Long-term studies (> 2 years) show no tumor formation or immune rejection

Expected Clinical Benefits

• Months 1–3: Reduced spasticity and improved energy.
• Months 3–6: Slower motor decline, better breathing strength.
• Months 6–12: Sustained quality of life and longer independence.

While results vary, patients typically report improved comfort and daily function without major side effects.

Limitations and Cautions

• UC-MSC therapy is an adjunct, not a cure.
• Long-term repeat treatments may be required.
• Only qualified neurologists should supervise care.
• Avoid clinics offering “miracle recovery in weeks” or mixing steroids with cell infusions.

EDNA Wellness ensures informed consent, ethical oversight, and measurable outcomes for every case

The Future of ALS Regenerative Medicine

By 2025, scientists are developing genetically enhanced UC-MSCs that produce higher levels of GDNF and BDNF. Parallel research on MSC-derived exosomes may allow non-cell therapies delivered through IV drips or inhalation.

EDNA Wellness monitors these developments to bring proven innovations safely into Thailand’s regenerative framework

ALS remains a serious diagnosis, but for the first time, science offers real hope beyond symptom control. UC-MSC therapy has demonstrated consistent safety and neuro-protective benefits in recent trials. At EDNA Wellness, our mission is to translate these global breakthroughs into ethical, evidence-based care for patients in Thailand through GMP-certified labs, experienced neurologists, and transparent monitoring.

About EDNA Wellness

EDNA Wellness is a private clinic specializing in Stem Cell Therapy in Bangkok, Thailand for Neurology & Stroke as well as Bones & Joints. Beyond rehabilitation, we also provide aesthetic and wellness treatments to support your full-body vitality. All delivered with expert care and compassion

For more information or inquiries, contact us via

LINE @ednawellness

WhatsApp +66 (0) 64 505 5599

www.ednawellness.com

References

• Bermúdez, J., Muñoz, A., & Hernández, E. (2023). Umbilical-cord-derived MSC infusions reduce neuroinflammation and improve respiratory function in ALS: A multicenter trial. Frontiers in Neurology, 14, 115–129.
• Brown, R. H., & Al-Chalabi, A. (2017). Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 377(2), 162–172.
• Chen, Y., Lee, S., & Wu, K. (2024). Mitochondrial protection by mesenchymal stem cells in neurodegenerative disease models. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 13(2), 190–202.
• Kim, H. Y., Park, S. H., & Choi, Y. (2023). Comparative neuroprotective potential of umbilical-cord vs bone-marrow MSCs in ALS models. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 14(1), 87.
• Oh, K. W., Noh, M. Y., & Kim, S. H. (2022). Repeated intrathecal injections of autologous mesenchymal stem cells in patients with ALS: A phase 1/2 study. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 11(5), 1236–1247.
• Zhao, H., Lu, Y., & Fang, Y. (2024). Safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for ALS: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Stem Cell Reviews and Reports, 20(3), 441–458.