In‑utero stem cell therapy boosts spina bifida outcomes
A small US trial treated six fetuses with open spina bifida using placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells during in‑utero repair. The procedure appeared safe, reversed hindbrain herniation in all cases, and was associated with improved mobility and quality of life after birth, with no tumours or wound-healing issues observed. If reproduced, this approach could become part of standard fetal surgery for spina bifida, marking a potential major step forward in birth defect treatment.