ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells are expected to have a therapeutic effect on progressive neurodegenerative diseases for which there is currently no fundamental treatment. AIMS OF THE STUDY: The aim is to confirm that repeated infusion of autologous adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can be safely administered to patients with Parkinson's disease, and to investigate the effects of this as a pilot study. METHODS: Three patients with Parkinson's disease received five or six repeated infusions of ADSCs at intervals of approximately one month. Observations were based on medical examinations by a neurologist and interviews with the patient and caregivers. The severity of Parkinson's disease was assessed using the Hoehn & Yahr staging scale and Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS). RESULTS: No adverse events were observed during the observation period from the start of treatment to six months after the end of the last dose. MDS-UPDRS improved in all three patients. CONCLUSIONS: Repeated administration of Autologous ADSCs for Parkinson's disease was safe and feasible. The results of this pilot study provide insight into the value of further research.