Paralyzed Man Stands Again After Groundbreaking Stem Cell Treatment in Japan
In a remarkable medical breakthrough, a paralyzed man in Japan has regained the ability to stand and is now relearning how to walk, thanks to an innovative stem cell treatment developed by researchers at Keio University in Tokyo. This pioneering procedure could mark a turning point in the treatment of spinal cord injuries and offer new hope to millions living with paralysis worldwide.
The clinical trial, led by Keio University scientists, used neural stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) — a revolutionary technology that allows adult cells to be reprogrammed into an embryonic-like state. These reprogrammed cells can then develop into any type of cell in the body, including nerve cells capable of repairing spinal tissue.
According to reports from Daily Mail, four men who had been completely paralyzed following severe spinal cord injuries participated in the trial. Each received a single injection of lab-grown stem cells directly into their spinal cord. Astonishingly, one of the patients regained the ability to stand independently and is currently undergoing rehabilitation to walk again.
As noted by Tokyo Weekender, this marks the first time such a level of recovery has been observed in a human using stem cell therapy for spinal cord injuries. The treatment was well tolerated by all participants, with no severe side effects reported, highlighting its potential safety and feasibility.
While researchers are optimistic, they caution that more extensive clinical trials are necessary to confirm the treatment’s safety, consistency, and long-term effectiveness. Still, this milestone represents a powerful step toward restoring mobility and independence for people affected by paralysis.
If future trials continue to show positive results, Japan’s stem cell breakthrough could pave the way for transformative therapies worldwide — turning what was once thought impossible into reality.