International expert join hands with Indian firm for autism treatment

Kolkata: A leading international neurologist is working with a team of Indian doctors to find out the treatment of childhood autism using cord blood stem cells.

Dr Michael Chez, autism and epilepsy treatment pioneer from Sutter Neuroscience Institute in USA, told reporters here that he has partnered with stem cell bank Cordlife for the research work in India.

Dr Chez said there are a number of research studies being undertaken worldwide to investigate the effects of cord blood stem cells that can potentially restore brain function in people with similar disorders.

If successful, the therapy can potentially decrease disabilities and improve quality of life for millions, he added.

In India, he said, he was collaborating with physicians to perform pioneering use of the patient's own cord blood stem cells for the treatment of childhood autism.

Cord blood that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta following the birth of a newborn is a rich source of hematopoietic stem cells, which have proven useful in the treatment of over 80 diseases including certain cancers and blood disorders.