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Bone Marrow

Also known as: Bone marrow, Bone marrow cells, Bone marrow-derived cells, BMMNCs, Bone marrow extract, Bone Marrow-Derived Cells

Overview

Bone marrow is the spongy tissue found inside bones, responsible for producing blood cells. While not typically consumed as a dietary supplement, bone marrow-derived cells (BMMNCs) are used in medical research for their regenerative potential, particularly in conditions like ischemic stroke and cardiac repair. These cells are rich in stem cells and other cell types that may promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Research on BMMNCs is advanced in preclinical settings, showing promising results in animal models. However, human clinical trials are still evolving, with challenges related to heterogeneity and small sample sizes. Bone marrow extract or components may be found in some supplement contexts, but research primarily focuses on therapeutic applications of BMMNCs.

Benefits

In animal models of ischemic stroke, BMMNCs have demonstrated significant benefits, including a reduction in lesion volume and improved functional outcomes. A meta-analysis reported a standardized mean difference (SMD) of -3.3 for lesion size reduction and -2.42 for improved cylinder test performance. There is also evidence suggesting potential benefits in cardiac repair, although the data is less robust compared to stroke models. While preclinical studies show large effect sizes, the clinical significance of BMMNCs in humans remains to be fully established. Benefits in animal models are often observed within days to weeks after treatment.

How it works

BMMNCs are believed to exert their effects primarily through paracrine signaling, where they release factors that promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the surrounding environment. These cells interact with the cardiovascular and nervous systems, potentially enhancing recovery post-injury. The precise molecular targets are not fully defined but likely involve multiple signaling pathways related to cell survival, differentiation, and angiogenesis. When administered intravenously, BMMNCs are distributed systemically, allowing them to reach the site of injury and exert their therapeutic effects.

Side effects

The safety profile of bone marrow-derived cells is generally considered favorable in preclinical studies. However, human trials have reported mixed results regarding safety and efficacy. In therapeutic use, side effects are typically mild and related to the administration procedure. Potential side effects may include immune reactions or other adverse effects that are not yet fully characterized. Drug interactions may occur with immunosuppressive drugs or other therapies affecting cell function. The use of bone marrow-derived cells in pregnant women or children is not well-studied. More research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits in different populations.

Dosage

There is no established dosage for bone marrow-derived cells as a dietary supplement, as their primary use is in medical research and therapy. In therapeutic contexts, doses vary widely depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. For example, animal studies have used doses ranging from 10 to 30 million cells per kilogram of body weight. Timing of administration is crucial in therapeutic contexts, with cells typically administered within 24 hours of injury. The therapeutic form is typically intravenous. More research is needed to determine optimal dosage ranges and safety thresholds for different applications.

FAQs

Are bone marrow-derived cells used as supplements?

No, bone marrow-derived cells are primarily used in medical research and therapy, not as dietary supplements. Their therapeutic applications are being explored for conditions like stroke and cardiac repair.

Are bone marrow-derived cells safe?

Safety data are limited for supplement use. Therapeutic applications are generally considered safe but require medical supervision. Potential side effects are typically mild and related to the administration procedure.

How are bone marrow-derived cells administered?

In therapeutic contexts, administration is typically intravenous. Timing is critical, often requiring administration within a specific window post-injury to maximize potential benefits.

What results can I expect from bone marrow-derived cell therapy?

Benefits are well-documented in animal models, but less consistent in humans. Clinical trials are ongoing to further evaluate their efficacy in various conditions.

Research Sources

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/STROKEAHA.116.012701 – This meta-analysis of 22 studies, primarily using rat models, investigated the effects of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) on ischemic stroke. The key findings showed significant reductions in lesion volume and improvements in functional outcomes in the animal models. The study highlights the potential therapeutic benefits of BMMNCs for stroke but notes the need for more standardized research and human data.
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/strokeaha.116.012701 – This abstract provides a summary of a meta-analysis examining the impact of bone marrow-derived cells on stroke recovery. The research indicates that BMMNCs can lead to reduced lesion size and improved functional performance in animal models of stroke. However, the abstract also points out the limitations of relying solely on preclinical data and emphasizes the importance of further clinical trials to confirm these findings in humans.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/486848 – This article discusses the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in evidence-based medicine. It highlights how these types of studies can provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on a particular topic, helping to inform clinical decision-making and identify areas where further research is needed. While not specific to bone marrow, it underscores the value of systematic reviews in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.