ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Stem Cell Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis

Stem Cell Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of painful ulcers or sores, primarily affecting the lining of the colon and rectum. These ulcers cause irritation and discomfort and can vary in severity depending on the affected area. UC primarily affects the mucosal lining of the intestines but can also have systemic symptoms.

UC presents with a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding, which may vary based on the extent and location of the inflammation. In some cases, the condition may resolve spontaneously, while others require medical intervention to prevent further complications, such as severe bleeding, infection, or colorectal cancer.

What causes Ulcerative Colitis?

The causes of ulcerative colitis can vary depending on the specific type and location of the condition.

·       Stomach Ulcerative Colitis (Peptic Ulcers): Most cases are caused by infection from the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. However, chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also damage the stomach lining, leading to ulceration.

·       Diabetic Foot Ulcers: These occur due to diabetic neuropathy, poor wound healing, or gangrene in severe cases. In extreme situations, diabetic foot ulcers can result in amputation.

·       Mouth and Genital Ulcers: These are often caused by bacterial or fungal infections.

·       Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: This rare condition, responsible for less than 1% of peptic ulcers, leads to excessive acid production, causing ulcers in the stomach and intestines.

Each type of ulcerative colitis has distinct causes, highlighting the importance of targeted treatment based on the underlying issue.

What are the symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

The symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis can vary depending on the affected area of the body. Below are common symptoms based on the specific type of ulceration:

1.    Peptic Ulcerative Colitis

o   Bloating and heartburn

o   Nausea and vomiting

o   Chest pain, frequent belching

o   Unexplained weight loss

2.    Arterial Ulcerative Colitis

o   Hairless skin with no visible bleeding

o   Black, yellow, or red sores on the skin

o   Leg pain and reduced circulation, causing cooler temperatures in the affected areas

3.    Venous Ulcerative Colitis

o   Scabbing and itchy skin

o   Swelling and inflammation around the affected area

o   Discharge from the wound

Additionally, mouth ulcers may be associated with:

·       Hormonal changes and vitamin deficiencies

·       Bacterial or fungal infections

·       Food allergies and other underlying conditions

THE TREATMENT JOURNEY

How is Ulcerative Colitis treated?

The treatment for Ulcerative Colitis largely depends on the specific area of the gastrointestinal tract that is affected. In cases involving the stomach, oral medications are commonly prescribed, along with dietary modifications.

H2 receptor blockers are often used to prevent ulcers by reducing stomach acid. Additionally, incorporating antacids, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and following a balanced diet can help alleviate symptoms. Foods rich in probiotics, antioxidants, and natural remedies like honey may also support symptom management.

While these treatments can help manage the symptoms and reduce flare-ups, there is still no definitive cure for Ulcerative Colitis. Long-term treatment is often necessary to prevent future relapses.

How can Stem Cell Therapy treat Ulcerative Colitis?

Stem cell therapy for ulcerative colitis (UC) involves the administration of 300 million stem cells via the intravenous (IV) route. This therapy is particularly effective because it offers treatment without significant side effects.

Among the different types of stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered the most suitable option for treating UC. MSCs have the unique ability to target the immune system and release cytokines, which are signaling proteins that help regulate immune responses. By modulating cytokine activity, MSCs can restore normal immune function, which is essential for managing UC.

Due to their immunosuppressive and regenerative properties, MSCs are regarded as a "bio-drug" for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including UC. They offer several advantages over other types of stem cells, such as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), due to their reduced side effects and improved tolerance.

Recent studies have also identified interleukin-35 (IL-35), an immunosuppressive cytokine, as a potential treatment for chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases like UC. MSC-based therapies can potentially delay, reverse, or even halt the progression of ulcerative colitis. However, the success of the treatment depends on several factors, including the patient's age, the duration of the disease, and the overall health of the patient.

For patients with Ulcerative Colitis, stem cell therapy offers several benefits, including:

·       Enhanced tissue healing

·       Slowed disease progression and a strengthened immune system

·       Suppression of the mucosal immune response due to MSCs' expression of interleukin-35, leveraging their immunoregulatory and hypoimmunogenic properties

·       Faster recovery, with potential results seen within six months, compared to years with traditional treatments

·       Minimal side effects and complications associated with the procedure

Epigenetic Test

At Renue we believe that if you are truly interested in Healthspan (Living better, not just longer.”) then it’s important that we are aware of our Biological Age vs Chronological Age.  Remember you can”t measure success without a starting point.  With TruDiagnostic’s TruAge testy you will receive 9 personalized Epigenetic Health Scores and actionable insights to slow aging

 

Biological Age

How old your body is compared to your real age

Pace of Aging

How quickly you're aging each year

Organ System Ages

The age of key organs (heart, brain, liver, etc.)

Fitness Age

Your physical health based on strength, lung capacity, and movement

Smoking Impact

How smoking has affected your epigenetic age

Alcohol Impact

How alcohol consumption has influenced your health

Exosomes and Autoimmune diseases:

Clinical studies suggest that the combination of exosomes with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be highly beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases by regulating inflammatory cytokines, the cellular microenvironment, and immune cells. This approach affects both the innate and adaptive immune systems, with particular influence on key immune cells such as macrophages, T-regulatory (Treg) cells, Th17 cells, and CD4+ Th1 cells, as well as immunoregulatory microRNAs.

In autoimmune conditions, MSC-derived exosomes aid in the regulation of T-cell subsets, reducing the concentration of pro-inflammatory Th17 and Th1 cytokines such as IL-17AF, IL-12p70, and IL-6. At the same time, they increase the levels of anti-inflammatory Treg cells, promoting immune balance without altering the overall lymphocyte count. This modulation of T-cell activity has been shown to be effective in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), where MSC-exosomes help suppress the differentiation of naïve T-cells, thereby reducing immune overactivity.

Macrophages, a central component of the innate immune system, can also be regulated by MSC-derived exosomes. Depending on the microenvironment, naïve macrophages (Mo) can be polarized into either anti-inflammatory M2 or pro-inflammatory M1 phenotypes, allowing them to perform specific roles in immune responses. MSC-exosome therapy promotes the conversion of M1 macrophages to the M2 phenotype, which reduces the presence of pro-inflammatory factors, thus attenuating inflammation.

Beyond autoimmune diseases, this therapy can also supportmetabolic homeostasisby reducingobesity-related inflammationand improving overall immune function. The ability of MSC-exosomes to modulate both macrophages and T-cells makes this a versatile therapeutic approach for managing chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation.

How is the treatment at The Renue Medical Centre different?

The Stem Cell Therapy (SCT) at The Renue Centre is a holistic approach to treating Ulcerative Colitis. 

Your Treatment Journey for Ulcerative Colitis with stem cells consists of four phases:

  • Pre-treatment: Physical exam, clinical evaluation, lab test results, and other diagnostic procedures.

    • You will take our TruDiagnostics epigenetics test that will assert your biological age and other important health markers. Your TruDiagnostics test is part of The Renue Difference. It provides your doctor with critical information about your health and your true age (biological vs. chronological).

    • After the epigenetic test and we have received all your medical records, your Patient Advisor will assist you in planning your travel to Puerto Vallarta.

Treatment day: Treatment days start with the initial check-up of the patient’s current health situation, vitals, and other significant tests. The route of administration of stem cell therapy for Ulcerative Colitis can be intra-arterial, intranasal, and intravenous. The dosage of the stem cells also depends upon the severity and type of the disease, which is customizable.

  • 30, 60 & 90 days post-treatment follow-up: To check for flare-up frequency, improvements, pain, and irritation

  • Six months post-treatment: Lab tests, flare-up frequency, clinical evaluation, mobility, quality of life, and disease prognosis

TREATMENT JOURNEY

Experience The Renue Difference in Puerto Vallarta 

Arrival Day

Upon arrival in Puerto Vallarta, a Renue representative will meet you at the airport in one of our Mercedes vans to transport you to the hotel. 

Our representative will quickly review your schedule for the coming days for your peace of mind. Renue makes it worry-free, so don't worry!

Evening

  • You traveled all this way, so would you like to check our list of recommended restaurants? We can make reservations for you to enjoy the great food and warm atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta. 

  • Check out the Renue chauffeur for recommendations, reservations, leisure activities, and your transportation needs.

A better life starts now! 

Day 1. Enjoy The Renue Difference.

Count on your Renue Advisor and staff to help you have a pleasant experience. Our Renuechauffeur will pick you up from the hotel and take you to The Renue Medical Centre in the Joya Hospital. Our staff will welcome and assist you at the Centre.

 

  • Our staff will check you in at the Centre and take you on a tour of the facilities, including The Renue Laboratory, where your stem cells and exosomes are produced. You will also visit the Hyperbaric Chamber facility, an essential part of The Renue Difference.

  • After your check-in, our medical associates will proceed with any necessary blood work or tests organized by your Patient Advisor. 

  • After that, you will meet with your doctor to review your file. Then, your doctor will make any adjustments to your treatment schedule submitted by your Renue Patient Advisor. 

  • Once your doctor has reviewed your file, additional testing might be required—for example, X-Rays, MRIs, and others. 

  • After that, you will have your first Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) session.

  • Following your first treatment session, our Renue chauffeur will return you to your hotel.

 
Evening

Do you have any plans for the evening? Or maybe you would need a chauffeur? 

Remember that relaxation can improve your health, too. Ask our Renue chauffeur for suggestions. They know the places to go in Puerto Vallarta.

Treatment Day & Second Hyperbaric Session

Day 2. Now you're a pro!

Our Renue chauffeur will pick you up according to the schedule and take you to The Renue Centre.

  • The medical team will welcome you and start your treatment for Ulcerative Colitis as soon as you arrive: 

  • 300 Million Stem Cells*

  • 16 Billion Exosomes*

*The actual quantity depends on the patient’s body weight and severity of the disease.

  • Then, after your treatment and second Hyperbaric Chamber session, the Renue chauffeur will return you to the hotel.

Evening

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful place; we suggest you don't miss out and enjoy your stay. You know it: ask our Renue chauffeur for suggestions and have fun!

The third and fourth Hyperbaric Session makes a difference!

Day 3 and 4. You're almost done.

Our Renue chauffeur will pick you up according to the schedule and take you to The Renue Centre. 

  • Your scheduled treatment will start as soon as you arrive. 

  • Then, after your treatment and third and fourth Hyperbaric Chamber session, the Renue chauffeur will return you to the hotel.

Evening

Your Renue Journey allows you to explore all that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. 

Ask our Renue Concierge for suggestions, and remember to enjoy yourself.

It's not over yet.

Day 5. Departure or extended stay? 

  • Our Renue chauffeur will pick you up from the hotel. Then, they will take you to the airport or another treatment according to your schedule. 

  • However, maybe you would like to extend your stay and your wellness holiday because Puerto Vallarta is stunning! 

  • Talk to our Renue chauffeur. Our team will contact you to confirm all details: tours, restaurants, and other treatments you would like to have.

 

Are you going to miss us? 

Don't forget our follow-up treatments. Talk to your Patient Advisor:

  • 30, 60 & 90 days follow-up: Ulcerative Colitis symptoms clinical evaluation, flare-up frequency, and lab test results.

  • Six months post-treatment: Ulcerative Colitis symptoms clinical evaluation, flare-up frequency, lab test results, X-ray report, and review of the diagnostic criteria from the American College of Rheumatology.

Significance of Hyperbaric Chambers post-treatment:

Three sessions of Hyperbaric Chambers are given to the patients after the treatment to:

  • Completely heal the fistulas or Ulcerative Colitis, which is defined as the absence of active draining and closure of the external orifices

  • Completely heal the wounds and granulation of the skin

  • Complete epithelialization of the wounded or damaged skin

  • Less need for invasive and surgical procedures for wounds restoration

  • Mobilize the stem cells recently administered inside the body

  • Reduce the events of inflammation. Inflammatory lesions and swelling associated with Ulcerative Colitis exacerbation, alleviation of the painful symptoms, and improvement of life quality in patients

  • Lessen the need for drug therapy in combination with the Stem Cell Therapy

EXPECTED RESULTS 

SCT to live a better life: Benefits and outcomes

The effectiveness of Stem Cell Treatment can improve all your symptoms, causing a considerable impact on your quality of life and daily activities.

As part of The Renue Difference, you will receive three Hyperbaric Chamber sessions that greatly improve SCT efficacy and stimulate the body cells to combat Ulcerative Colitis. These sessions comprise four days: one day before treatment, two after treatment, and on the day of treatment.

According to results, clinical outcomes, and pre- and post-treatment observations, SCT has been shown to help

  • Reduce MS progression

  • Speed up tissue repair

  • Regrow and repair tissues after six months

After the SCT procedure, an MRI test depicts the further need for the treatment at a specific body site.

Talk to our Patient Advisor to learn more about SCT at The Renue Centre.

Expected results and prognosis:

  • Expected result 1:  Immediate control of associated symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis post-treatment.

  • Expected result 2: A significant decrease in the size and number of Ulcerative Colitis, which aids in preventing the chances of amputation (as in diabetic Ulcerative Colitis), higher rates of wounds closing, healing, and epithelialization of the skin surface covering the wound.

  • Expected result 3: The enhanced quality of life and more life satisfaction.

FREQUENT QUESTIONS

What are the risk factors of Stem Cell Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis?

Treatments of Ulcerative Colitis can cause high-risk complications and side effects. Stem Cell Therapy is the most dependable procedure for Ulcerative Colitis disease now. Generally, Stem Cell Therapy has a satisfactory safety profile, good prognosis, and effectiveness. 

However, no medical procedure is 100% safe; so, the most frequent or common risk factors of SCT can be:

  • Fever

  • Allergic reactions

  • Bleeding from the site of injection

  • Painful injection area /site

  • Lethargy and fatigue

Management of Risks

Pre-treatment education can help with awareness of slight side effects of the therapy. Allergic reactions are preventable through pre-injection history and care. Bleeding and swelling of the injured site are manageable via proper technique. Fever, lethargy, and pain are managed through the appropriate drugs along with the treatment. In the case of stomach Ulcerative Colitis, damage to the mucosal lining is preventable through SCT, which doesn’t require too many medications to damage the stomach lining.

Stem Cells Therapy (SCT) has a great potential to be more effective for treating Ulcerative Colitis than previous methods and carries less risk. SCT has a great potential to emerge as one solution to all the human body problems, but it will need some time and patience.  

All the treatment options for Ulcerative Colitis have been temporary options for just treating the symptoms. With the invention of Stem Cells Replacement Therapy, hopes and prognosis of the disease treatment have been raised. It has the potential to be more effective than previous methods and also carries less risk. 

The benefits and effects of Stem Cell Therapy depend on several factors: the patient's health condition, underlying issues, lifestyle, and others. To assess your expected results, we would like to know more about you. A medical advisor will talk to you about your diagnosis and treatment options and collect information for the attending physician; they can answer all your initial questions:

  • Will the therapy work for my case? 

  • What does the treatment involve? Is it painful?

  • Is it expensive? How much does it cost?

Start your Wellness Journey!

Click on the button below to book a consultation to answer your questions and discuss your medical history, your treatment journey, and your goals.