In new research published in The FASEB Journal, Dr. Sîrbulescu’s lab demonstrated the remarkable protective effect of B cells in the context of ALS in a murine model and observed decreased inflammation in a patient with the disease.

Previous work by the group showed that the direct application of purified B cells, which are immune cells known to produce antibodies, can reduce inflammation and promote recovery in mice with skin or brain injuries. In the latest research publication, the team assessed the effects of B cell infusions in mice prone to ALS and in a person living with the disease. In the murine model, repeated intravenous treatment of B cells significantly delayed ALS disease onset and extended survival with reduced cell death. In the human patient, repeated infusions of donor B cells were safe and led to decreased levels of multiple inflammatory markers.