First-in-utero stem cell treatment appears safe and may enhance spina bifida repair
In six pregnancies with fetal spina bifida, researchers applied donor placental stem cells during prenatal spinal repair. The phase I CuRe trial found no stem-cell-related adverse events or infections, and newborns showed signs the surgery worked (hindbrain herniation reversal) with no hydrocephalus shunts at birth; long-term benefits remain unknown, and a larger Phase I/IIa trial is underway.