A Phase 2 clinical trial has demonstrated that a single infusion of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can reverse age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) and restore physical function in elderly adults, marking a potential turning point in geriatric medicine.
The trial, conducted across 15 centers in the United States, enrolled 120 adults aged 70 to 85 with diagnosed sarcopenia. Participants who received the stem cell infusion showed a 15% increase in muscle mass and a 25% improvement in grip strength over 12 months, compared to no change in the placebo group.
"Sarcopenia affects nearly half of adults over 80 and is a leading cause of falls, disability, and loss of independence," said Dr. Joshua Hare of the University of Miami, who led the trial. "This therapy addresses the root cause — stem cell depletion — rather than just managing symptoms."
The treatment works by replenishing the body's supply of regenerative cells, which decline with age. The infused MSCs home to damaged muscle tissue, reduce local inflammation, and stimulate the activation of resident muscle stem cells (satellite cells) that have become dormant with aging.
Remarkably, benefits extended beyond muscle function: participants also showed improvements in cardiovascular endurance, balance, and overall quality of life. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported.
Researchers are now planning a larger Phase 3 trial and exploring whether repeated treatments could provide cumulative benefits.