- By Priyanka Munshi
- Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Psoriasis occurs due to a defect in the immune system, leading to the rapid proliferation of skin cells. This results in plaques—raised, red, inflamed areas of skin that are often itchy and painful. Psoriasis is highly heterogeneous, varying from a few skin patches to widespread plaques that can cause significant discomfort and distress. There are approximately 105 million people worldwide suffering from psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that causes dry, itchy patches on the skin. While systemic treatments, phototherapy, topical therapies, and corticosteroids are available, there is growing interest in regenerative medicine as a promising alternative.
The exact mechanism behind psoriasis remains unclear, but genetic factors, environmental triggers, and immune system dysregulation play key roles. Stress, infections, and certain medications are common triggers, making treatment approaches highly patient-specific. Speaking with Jagran English, Dr. Pradeep Mahajan, a regenerative medicine researcher and founder of StemRx Hospital and Research Centre, shared insights on psoriasis and the potential of regenerative medicine as a path to healing.
Regenerative Medicine: A New Frontier In Psoriasis Treatment
Regenerative Medicine:
Regenerative medicine is increasingly being explored for patients who do not respond well to conventional treatments. This emerging field includes therapies such as stem cell treatment, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and tissue engineering, which aim to repair and heal tissues by leveraging the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Unlike conventional treatments that mainly address symptoms, regenerative medicine offers the possibility of addressing the root cause of psoriasis.
Stem Cells:
Stem cells are one of the most promising tools in treating psoriasis. They can regenerate scarred or damaged skin while modulating immune responses to slow down the rapid turnover of skin cells characteristic of psoriasis. Bone marrow-derived stem cells, in particular, act as precursors to skin tissue and help target inflammation, which is a major factor in psoriasis flare-ups. “Stem cells from bone marrow can upregulate cell proliferation and reduce inflammation, directly addressing the triggers of a psoriatic attack,” said Dr. Mahajan.
PRP Therapy:
PRP therapy is another promising approach in regenerative medicine. This involves drawing the patient’s blood, concentrating platelets, and using these platelets to promote healing through their abundant growth factors. This therapy accelerates wound healing and reduces the severity of psoriasis by regenerating affected areas more effectively.
Insights From Dr. Pradeep Mahajan On Psoriasis
Dr. Mahajan believes that regenerative medicine has the potential to revolutionize the management of psoriasis. He stated, “The possibility of treating autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis with cell therapy and other regenerative methods has inspired me as a researcher. Our emphasis is on promoting the body's self-regenerative processes. Conventional therapies often provide only symptomatic relief, but regenerative medicine seeks to address the root cause of the disease.”
Dr. Mahajan emphasised that treatment responses vary among patients, and regenerative approaches can be customized to individual needs. Using stem cells from a patient’s own body minimizes the risk of rejection and speeds up healing. He also dispelled the misconception that stem cell therapy is solely focused on the skin. “Stem cells have the ability to modulate the immune system, reducing the exaggerated inflammation responsible for excessive skin cell turnover. This makes flare-ups more manageable and, in some cases, leads to long-term improvements.”
What Is The Future Of Psoriasis Treatment With Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative therapies for psoriasis are still in their early stages, but the future looks promising. Advances in stem cell technology and ongoing research are expected to make these therapies more accessible and effective. Dr. Mahajan expressed optimism: “While we are still years away from regenerative medicine becoming the gold standard for psoriasis treatment, I am confident that we are making strides toward this goal. With customized care, we bring more than just hope to patients seeking long-term relief.”
Dr. Mahajan concluded, “Regenerative medicine holds immense promise for psoriasis patients who have endured this condition. It represents a shift from merely managing symptoms to addressing the underlying cause of the disease. With innovative therapies on the horizon, we aim to provide not just relief, but true healing for those affected by psoriasis.”