“Latest Stem Cells News”

A young 16 year old boy with Type 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy has returned home with noticeable improvements after receiving Adult stem cell research in China. Kyle Knopes, from Janesville, Wisconsin says his quality of life has improved tremendously after returning from China where he received adult stem cells taken from cord blood.

What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a hereditary disease in which the person is missing a gene which is responsible for the production of the protein for motor neurons. Without this protein, the motor neuron in the spinal cord wither and die.

Before the Stem Cell Treatment in China

• Couldn’t open his fist
• Couldn’t roll over on his side by himself
• All muscles were very weak, could only hold empty cups

After the Stem Cell Therapy Using Adult Stem Cells

• Can open his fist and stretch his fingers by himself
• Can roll from his back onto his side all by himself
• Can now carry some weight, such as a bottle of apple juice rather than just empty cups
• Reports improved strength in all his muscles
• Daily tasks such as eating and writing are easier

Adult Stem Cells “Definitely” and “Absolutely” Worth It

When asked if the trip half way around the world from Wisconsin to China was worth it, Kyle replied “Definitely” and his mother chimed in with “Absolutely.”

From the stem cell article:

Kyle and Penny said they’re happy to have gone through all the fundraising and planning for the treatment that cost more than $30,000, plus expenses.

They’d even consider a second trip in a few years for more injections.

They met families from across the United States, Australia, United Arab Emirates, England and elsewhere during their stay.

“It was like one big family,” Kyle said.

Another Spinal Muscular Atrophy Patient Helped By Stem Cell Research

Coincidentally, or probably not so coincidentally, Kyle followed in the footsteps of another Janesville resident with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Brandon Meinke.

This was a great story because a reporter from the local TV station followed Brandon before and after the stem cell treatment, documenting the improvements.

Brandon received stem cell treatment for his SMA and was able to walk again after the adult stem cells. You can see more on his stem cell therapy here.

original post by Don Margolis