Granagard administration prolongs the survival of human mesenchymal stem cells transplanted into a mouse model of multiple sclerosis.

The clinical effect of human Mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) transplanted into EAE mice/MS patients is short lived due to poor survival of the transplanted cells. Since Granagard, a nanoformulation of pomegranate seed oil, extended the presence of Neuronal Stem cells transplanted into CJD mice brains, we tested whether this safe food supplement can also elongate the survival of hMSCs transplanted into EAE mice. Indeed, pathological studies 60 days post transplantation identified human cells only in brains of Granagard treated mice, concomitant with increased clinical activity.

Sex-specific prediction of interferon beta therapy response in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disorder predominantly affecting young people. Currently, interferon beta (IFNβ) is a common treatment for MS. Despite a large effort in recent years, valid biomarkers with predictive value for clinical outcome and response to therapy are lacking.

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt for intracranial hypertension in cryptococcal meningitis without hydrocephalus.

The use of a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to treat uncontrollable intracranial hypertension in patients with cryptococcal meningitis without hydrocephalus is somewhat unusual and still largely unreported. However, uncontrollable intracranial hypertension without hydrocephalus in these patients is a potentially life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis and shunt placement are essential to improve survival and neurological function.