TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH ON STEM CELL THERAPIES AND REGENERATIVE STRATEGIES TO REPAIR NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS -ASSOCIATED GUT INJURY

Abstract

Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal emergency in neonates characterized by intestinal inflammation, necrosis, and high mortality. Despite advances in neonatal intensive care, outcomes remain poor, particularly in advanced stages requiring surgical intervention. Translational research has highlighted the regenerative and immunomodulatory potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in mitigating intestinal injury.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell therapy as an adjunct to standard management in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with NEC.

Methods: This prospective randomized controlled study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Uzbekistan, including 158 neonates diagnosed with Modified Bell’s Stage II and III NEC. Patients were randomized into two groups: Group A (n=79) received standard medical/surgical management, and Group B (n=79) received standard management plus MSC therapy. Primary outcomes included mortality and need for surgical intervention. Secondary outcomes included time to full enteral feeding, duration of hospital stay, and complications.

Results: The stem cell group demonstrated a significant reduction in surgical intervention (26.6% vs 43.0%; p=0.032) and mortality (11.4% vs 22.8%; p=0.048). Time to full enteral feeds and hospital stay were significantly shorter in Group B (p<0.001). Complications such as sepsis and intestinal stricture were also significantly reduced.

Conclusion: Mesenchymal stem cell therapy significantly improves clinical outcomes in NEC and represents a promising regenerative adjunct in neonatal surgical care.