Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are among the most challenging neurological conditions of our time. With global aging, increasing life expectancy, and rising metabolic and vascular disorders, more individuals are experiencing memory decline, cognitive impairment, and progressive neurodegeneration. Because current medications can only temporarily slow symptoms — not reverse the disease. Many families are turning their attention to regenerative medicine, particularly Umbilical Cord–Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (UC-MSCs).

These cells have shown encouraging potential in reducing neuroinflammation, supporting neuronal survival, and improving functional outcomes in several early-phase human studies. However, stem cell therapy is not a cure, and claims of reversing advanced Alzheimer’s are unsupported. What the science does show is that MSC therapy may help delay progression, improve quality of life, and support brain function when administered responsibly and at the right stage.

This 2025 overview explains the current evidence, the limitations, and why Thailand particularly Bangkok is becoming a leading center for regenerative neurology.

Understanding Alzheimer’s vs. Other Dementias

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the buildup of amyloid-beta plaques, tau tangles, and widespread neuroinflammation. Over time, this leads to:

• Neuronal loss
• Synaptic dysfunction
• Memory impairment
• Behavioral changes
• Decline in daily functioning

Other forms of dementia such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, or mixed dementia involve different mechanisms but share one driving factor: chronic inflammation and neuronal degeneration. MSC therapy focuses on reducing inflammation and improving the environment around neurons, which may help stabilize decline.

What Stem Cells Can Realistically Do for Alzheimer’s

UC-MSCs do not remove amyloid plaques or cure neurodegeneration. Instead, research shows they can:

• Reduce neuroinflammation in the brain
• Lower inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α)
• Improve synaptic signaling
• Restore microglial balance
• Improve cerebral blood flow
• Support neurogenesis in certain regions
• Enhance cognitive function in early phases

These changes may translate into:

• Better memory recall
• Improved attention
• More stable mood
• Reduced behavioral agitation
• Slower overall decline

This is why many families consider MSC therapy as a supportive treatment.

Important Clarification: Stem Cells Are Not a Cure

The scientific community agrees:

• Alzheimer’s cannot currently be cured
• No treatment fully reverses late-stage neurodegeneration
• Stem cells are best used early in the disease process

MSC therapy is a supportive, disease-modifying approach — not a miracle reversal therapy.

Current Clinical Evidence for MSCs in Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Research has expanded rapidly over the last decade.

1. Phase I and II Trials Show Safety

Multiple studies confirm UC-MSCs administered intravenously or intrathecally are safe and well-tolerated. No major serious adverse events have been noted in Phase I–II studies.

2. Inflammation Markers Improve After MSC Infusion

MSC therapy can reduce inflammatory markers associated with cognitive decline. Neuroinflammation is one of the earliest and most damaging features of Alzheimer’s.

3. Patients Show Stabilization or Mild Cognitive Improvement

Several studies report:

• Slower decline in MMSE scores
• Improved daily functioning
• Better mood and social interaction
• Improved sleep and agitation control

These benefits are more prominent in:

• Early-stage Alzheimer’s
• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
• Vascular dementia
• Mixed dementia with inflammation

4. Repeated Dosing Shows Better Outcomes

A 2024 review suggests that patients receiving multiple MSC infusions over 6–12 months have:

• Longer-lasting functional stability
• Reduced caregiver burden
• Slower progression to severe dementia

This aligns with the biology of MSCs — their benefits rely on ongoing immunomodulation.

Why UC-MSCs Are Considered Ideal for Brain Degeneration

UC-MSCs outperform autologous (patient-derived) cells because:

• They are biologically younger and more potent
• They produce more neuroprotective exosomes
• They modulate microglial overactivation
• They have strong anti-inflammatory effects
• They improve the brain’s metabolic environment

This is especially important because aging and chronic inflammation impair the body’s own stem cells.

When Stem Cell Therapy Works Best

MSC therapy shows the most benefit when:

• Alzheimer’s is in mild to moderate stages
• Cognitive symptoms are just beginning
• There is measurable inflammation
• The patient still functions independently
• Combined with cognitive stimulation and lifestyle modification

In late-stage Alzheimer’s, MSC therapy may help behavior and comfort but cannot reverse structural loss.

EDNA Wellness: Responsible Approach to Cognitive Regeneration

EDNA Wellness provides stem cell therapy only after a full neurological evaluation. The clinic adheres to strict guidelines:

• Treatment aligns with early-phase scientific evidence
• UC-MSCs are sourced from TISTR-certified GMP laboratories
• Patient safety, dosing, and risk assessment follow high medical standards
• Families receive realistic expectations — no false promises

EDNA focuses on:

• Reducing inflammation
• Stabilizing cognitive function
• Improving patient quality of life
• Supporting family care strategies

Combined with lifestyle modification (sleep, exercise, metabolic control), patients often experience an improved sense of clarity, stability, and daily functioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stem cells cure Alzheimer’s?
No, they may slow decline and improve quality of life but cannot cure the disease.

Are UC-MSC infusions safe?
Medical evidences show a strong safety profile with minimal adverse effects.

How long do results last?
Many patients notice benefits for 6–18 months, depending on stage and dosing.

Is intrathecal administration better?
It may deliver more cells to the central nervous system, but risks and benefits must be carefully weighed.

Should treatment be repeated?
Many protocols recommend multiple infusions to maintain effect

About EDNA Wellness

EDNA Wellness is a private Stem Cell Clinic and Regenerative Medicine Center in Bangkok, Thailand, specializing in Umbilical cord–derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (UC-MSCs) for knee osteoarthritis and joint pain, stroke and other neuro-related conditions, and stem cell IV infusions for longevity and healthy aging. All treatments are doctor-designed and performed in a sterile clinical setting

For more information or to book a consultation:

LINE: @ednawellness

WhatsApp: +66 (0) 64 505 5599

Website: www.ednawellness.com

References

• Xiang et al. 2024. Mesenchymal stem cells and neuroinflammation modulation. Stem Cell Research & Therapy.
• Kim HJ et al. 2023. Safety of repeated MSC infusion in neurodegenerative disorders. Journal of Neurology.
• Selkoe DJ. 2022. Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms. New England Journal of Medicine.
• Huang Y et al. 2024. Clinical outcomes of MSC therapy in dementia. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.
• Mayo Clinic. Alzheimer’s disease overview, updated 2024.