Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the myelin sheath — the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord
Traditional medications help slow relapses, but many patients continue to face fatigue, muscle weakness, and vision problems.In 2025, two stem-cell-based approaches dominate the discussion: Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation (HSCT) and Mesenchymal Stem-Cell (MSC) Therapy.
At EDNA Wellness, we focus on the safer, regenerative approach — UC-MSC therapy — certified under TISTR / วว GMP standards for transparency and quality.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
MS affects over 2.8 million people worldwide, including thousands in Thailand.
The disease occurs when immune cells damage myelin, disrupting communication between the brain and body.
Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in limbs
- Muscle spasms or weakness
- Vision loss (optic neuritis)
- Cognitive and emotional changes
- Fatigue and balance issues
MS follows different patterns — relapsing-remitting (RRMS), secondary progressive (SPMS), and primary progressive (PPMS) — requiring different treatment goals.
HSCT: Immune Reset Through High-Risk Intervention
Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation (HSCT) involves collecting a patient’s bone marrow stem cells, using high-dose chemotherapy to destroy immune cells, and then reintroducing the harvested cells to “reset” the immune system.
Pros:
- Can halt disease activity in highly active RRMS.
- Strong immune reset effect lasting several years.
Cons:
- Requires hospitalization and immune suppression.
- Risk of infection, infertility, and organ toxicity.
- Mortality rate in early trials was 1–2 %
While effective for select patients, HSCT remains a high-risk procedure suitable only in specialized centers.
MSC Therapy: Regeneration Without Immune Ablation
Mesenchymal Stem-Cell (MSC) Therapy, particularly with umbilical-cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs), represents a gentler, regenerative approach that focuses on:
- Reducing inflammation in the central nervous system.
- Protecting and repairing myelin and neurons.
- Improving functional recovery without chemotherapy or immune suppression.
Unlike HSCT, UC-MSC therapy can be performed outpatient, with minimal downtime and no immune risk
Scientific Comparison: HSCT vs MSC Therapy
| Aspect | HSCT | MSC Therapy (UC-MSC) |
| Goal | Reset immune system | Modulate inflammation and repair tissue |
| Source | Bone marrow (autologous) | Umbilical cord (allogeneic, young) |
| Procedure | Chemotherapy + reinfusion | IV or intrathecal infusion |
| Risk Level | High (infection, immune suppression) | Low (outpatient, mild fatigue) |
| Hospitalization | 3–4 weeks | None or 1-day observation |
| Cost (Thailand) | ~1.5–2.5 million THB | ~200,000–300,000 THB per session |
| Effectiveness | Stops relapse (RRMS) | Slows progression, improves function |
| Recovery Type | Immune reset | Neurorepair and support |
Both treatments aim to slow progression but differ in approach — HSCT “restarts” the immune system, while MSC therapy “rebalances and repairs” it.
Evidence Supporting UC-MSC Therapy
- From analysis (Wang et al., 2024): UC-MSC therapy reduced relapse rates and improved Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores with no major side effects.
- Phase II Clinical Trial (Zhao et al., 2023): Intrathecal UC-MSCs improved motor coordination and myelin thickness in MRI scans.
- Long-term safety data (Li et al., 2024): Repeated MSC infusions maintained stability for 12–24 months without immunosuppression.
These results highlight MSC therapy as a low-risk, high-safety alternative for long-term MS management.
Administration Routes and Protocols at EDNA Wellness
| Route | Purpose | Benefits |
| Intravenous (IV) | Systemic immune modulation | Reduces inflammation throughout body |
| Intrathecal (Spinal) | Targeted CNS delivery | Enhances local neuroprotection |
| Combined Approach | Sequential IV + Intrathecal | Used for advanced or chronic MS |
All UC-MSCs used are GMP-certified (TISTR), tested for sterility, viability, and potency. Doses follow published safety ranges (≈ 1–2 × 10⁷ cells/session).
Safety and Side Effects
MSC Therapy:
- Minimal side effects — mild fatigue, temporary headache.
- No risk of tumor formation or immune rejection (Li et al., 2024).
- Can be repeated every 6–12 months.
HSCT:
- High toxicity due to chemotherapy.
- 5–10 % risk of serious infection or hospitalization.
- Requires months of immune recovery.
EDNA Wellness focuses on regenerative, patient-safe alternatives under ethical supervision.
Expected Outcomes with MSC Therapy
Patients may observe:
- Months 1–3: Reduced fatigue and improved mobility.
- Months 4–6: Better balance, fewer relapses.
- Months 6–12: Slower progression and improved daily activity.
Results depend on disease type and adherence to follow-up care.
Cautions for Patients
- Always consult a neurologist before pursuing stem-cell therapy.
- Verify laboratory certification and treatment protocols.
- Avoid clinics promising “permanent cure” or offering steroids in cell mixtures.
- Choose programs with transparent follow-up and documented progress.
EDNA Wellness emphasizes ethical regenerative care grounded in verified science.
For MS patients, both HSCT and MSC therapy represent powerful tools — but only one is accessible, gentle, and regenerative without the risks of chemotherapy.
At EDNA Wellness, we specialize in UC-MSC regenerative therapy aligned with global safety data and Thai GMP standards, helping patients restore stability and improve long-term quality of life.
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
References
- Li, C., Xu, Q., & Zhao, Y. (2024). Long-term outcomes of repeated UC-MSC therapy in multiple sclerosis: A 2-year follow-up. Stem Cell Reviews and Reports, 20(3), 411–425.*
- Muraro, P. A., Pasquini, M., & Atkins, H. L. (2017). Long-term outcomes after autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation for multiple sclerosis. JAMA Neurology, 74(4), 459–469.*
- Wang, P., Zhang, X., & Liu, Y. (2024). Mesenchymal stem-cell therapy for multiple sclerosis: A meta-analysis of clinical trials. Frontiers in Immunology, 15, 102–120.*
- Zhao, H., Chen, L., & Fang, Y. (2023). Intrathecal umbilical-cord MSC transplantation improves myelin repair in multiple sclerosis: A phase II study. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 14(1), 118–132.*