Coordinating Investigator: Lars Bø

Study of Mesenchymal Autologous stem cells as Regenerative Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (SMART-MS).

There is currently no effective treatment available to promote repair of damage to the central nervous system (CNS), caused by multiple sclerosis (MS), and thereby reverse neurological disability. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to induce neuronal repair through multiple neuro-regenerative mechanisms, including remyelination, immunomodulation and stimulation of endogenous cerebral stem cells. In this study, we aim to investigate the potential of regenerative stem cell treatment with MSCs in MS and to increase the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of action.

The objectives of this study are to assess if treatment with autologous bone marrow derived MSCs is feasible, safe and promotes neural repair in patients with progressive MS.

The study is performed as a collaboration between Haukeland University Hospital, the Tissue Engineering Group at the University of Bergen, the University Hospital in Ulm, Akershus University Hospital in Lørenskog, St Olav’s Hospital, in Trondheim, and the University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø

Currently, the study is under evaluation by the Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics Western Norway, and the Norwegian Medicines Agency. Estimated study start; Q1-2, 2021.