Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can suppress an overactive immune response and counteract inflammation. This makes them useful in the treatment of Lyme disease and PTLDS, where the infection with Borrelia triggers a profound inflammatory response. This leads to symptoms like joint pain, and when left untreated, Lyme-induced inflammation can damage cells, tissues, and organs. In some patients (15%), inflammation also develops in the nervous system, causing neurologic symptoms like numbness, weakness, and even facial paralysis.
Fortunately, MSCs naturally seek out inflammation in the body. After MSC transplantation, patients can expect a reduction in both pain and inflammatory symptoms, as well as assistance in eliminating the Borrelia bacteria. At the same time, the MSCs are also expected to help repair and regenerate any damage from Lyme-induced inflammation.
