The Science Behind Q-Cells®

Demylinating Diseases

Diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), transverse myelitis (TM) and cerebral palsy—often referred to as demyelinating diseases—occur when cells providing the myelin sheath that insulates the neurons (the "connecting wires" of the nervous system) are damaged or destroyed.  Traumatic spinal cord injury also results in the destruction of the myelin sheath.

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As this myelin sheath is part of a living cell (the oligodendrocyte), the most straightforward and effective treatment would be to replace the damaged oligodendrocyte cells.  Replacement cells would then follow internal cues to restore myelin.

Unlike existing pharmaceutical products, Q-Cells® (glial progenitors) are designed to perform this basic restorative function.  In models of demyelination, Q-Cells® essentially act as replacement "factories," stepping in to produce the oligodendrocytes that form the missing myelin sheath that existing neurons need to function properly. This approach, which restores the function of existing neurons rather than attempting to replace them, should lead to reduced risk, safer and more predictable results, and faster development times.

Other Neurodegenerative Diseases

Q-Cells® also provide other important support functions necessary for neuron health through generation of cells called astrocytes.  Astrocytes provide direct neuro-protection through multiple means including production of growth factors, other trophic support, reduction of toxic metabolytes and direct interactions that promote healthy neurons.  Diseases which may benefit from such direct neuroprotection include ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, stroke and Alzheimer's Disease.