Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation and damage to multiple organs.
Current therapies aim to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups, but they are not always effective for every patient.
Recent research has focused on innovative strategies, including the use of the secretome derived from umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs), known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.
The Clinical Study
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 29 women with moderate SLE activity.
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Treatment group: weekly intramuscular injections of 1.5 cc UC-MSC secretome for six weeks.
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Control group: placebo (saline) injections.
Disease activity was assessed using the MEX-SLEDAI index, while immune system markers such as C3, C4, IL-6, TNF-α, and anti-dsDNA antibodies were measured at baseline, day 22, and day 43.
Key Findings
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Reduced disease activity in the treated group compared to placebo.
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Significant increase in complement C3, indicating improved immune balance.
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Trends toward lower IL-6, TNF-α, and anti-dsDNA antibodies, though not statistically significant.
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Safety confirmed: no serious adverse events; treatment was well tolerated.
Clinical Significance
These results suggest that the UC-MSC-derived secretome could represent a safe and potentially effective additional therapy for SLE patients, thanks to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.
However, larger studies with longer follow-up are required to confirm these preliminary findings and better understand the mechanisms of action.
Conclusion
This early study indicates that the UC-MSC secretome may offer a promising new therapeutic option for systemic lupus erythematosus, improving disease activity without significant side effects.
Future research will be key to validating these results and integrating this innovative therapy into clinical practice.
Reference
Narrah J. 2025. Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived secretome as a potential treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus: A double-blind randomized controlled trial.
