Introduction

In recent years, stem cell therapy has gained global attention as a powerful new option in the field of regenerative medicine. While most people know stem cells for their role in healing injuries or slowing the effects of aging, emerging research shows that they may also have a profound impact on immune-related conditions—including allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Allergies affect nearly one in four adults worldwide, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Crohn’s disease are on the rise. For many patients, conventional treatments only manage symptoms without addressing the root cause. Stem cell therapy, particularly using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), offers a new frontier: the potential to retrain the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote long-term balance.

This article explores how stem cells may help reduce allergy severity and autoimmune triggers, what the latest research reveals, and what patients should know before considering treatment.

Stem Cells and Allergies

Understanding Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless—such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or certain foods. This immune overreaction triggers inflammation and symptoms like itchy eyes, runny nose, wheezing, or skin rashes.

Traditional treatments—like antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunotherapy—can control symptoms, but they do not address the underlying immune imbalance. This is where stem cells come into play.

How Stem Cells Could Help

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known for their immunomodulatory properties. Instead of simply suppressing the immune system, they work by:

• Releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines that calm excessive immune activity.

• Encouraging the growth of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which keep allergy-causing immune responses under control.

• Shifting the immune balance away from Th2-dominated responses, which drive allergic inflammation.

In simpler terms, MSCs help "reset" the immune system so that it reacts appropriately rather than overreacting.

Key Research Findings

• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema):
  A 2024 Phase I/II clinical trial tested bone marrow–derived MSCs in patients with moderate-to-severe eczema. Results showed significant improvements in skin inflammation, itching, and overall disease severity, with no major side effects reported.

• Allergic Asthma:
  Animal studies and early-stage trials suggest MSCs can reduce airway inflammation, improve breathing, and lower hyperreactivity in asthma models. Patients experienced improved lung function and reduced need for conventional medication.

• Food Allergies and Experimental Data:
  Preclinical studies have demonstrated that stem cells can reduce allergic responses to food allergens in laboratory settings, though human trials are still needed.

These findings suggest that stem cell therapy could one day serve as a powerful treatment option for individuals whose allergies are not well controlled by standard care.

Stem Cells and Autoimmune Diseases

Understanding Autoimmunity

Unlike allergies, where the immune system attacks external triggers, autoimmune diseases occur when the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This can lead to chronic pain, inflammation, and damage to organs or joints. Examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease.

Current treatments—such as immunosuppressive drugs or biologics—focus on controlling inflammation and slowing disease progression. However, these medications can come with side effects, such as infections or long-term immune suppression.

How Stem Cells Could Help

Stem cells, particularly MSCs, may provide a more natural way to rebalance the immune system. Their therapeutic benefits include:

• Immune Regulation: Promoting tolerance so that the immune system stops attacking healthy tissue.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reducing chronic inflammation that causes pain and tissue damage.

• Tissue Repair: Supporting regeneration in organs or joints damaged by autoimmune activity.

Clinical Evidence

• Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis:
  A 2023 systematic review of MSC therapy found significant improvements in disease activity scores, kidney function (in lupus nephritis), and overall quality of life for patients.

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
  Preliminary studies suggest that MSCs can reduce relapse rates and improve neurological function in MS patients, though larger trials are still ongoing.

• Crohn’s Disease:
  One of the most promising breakthroughs is Darvadstrocel (Alofisel®), an adipose-derived MSC therapy approved in the EU for the treatment of Crohn’s-related fistulas. This regulatory approval proves that stem cell therapies can work in real-world clinical practice.

• Type 1 Diabetes (Experimental):
  Early trials suggest that stem cells may help protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, reducing dependence on insulin therapy.

These findings highlight that while stem cell therapy is not yet a universal cure, it holds enormous potential to transform autoimmune disease management.

Limitations and Considerations

While the potential of stem cell therapy is exciting, patients should be aware of several important points:

Clinical Stage

Most applications for allergies and autoimmune diseases remain in the research or clinical trial phase. Only a few, such as stem cell therapy for Crohn’s fistulas, have received regulatory approval.

Treatment Outcomes

Not every patient responds the same way. Results can vary depending on the disease, the stage of progression, and the patient’s overall health. Personalized approaches generally yield better outcomes.

Safety Profile

Thus far, clinical trials report that MSC therapy is well tolerated, with side effects limited to mild infusion reactions, fatigue, or minor immune changes. Serious risks are rare, but long-term monitoring is essential.

Importance of Personalization

The type of stem cells used (bone marrow, fat-derived, umbilical cord), the dosage, and the method of administration (intravenous, local injection, or targeted delivery) all influence results. A personalized treatment plan is crucial for success.

Bottom Line

Stem cell therapy represents one of the most exciting developments in modern medicine. For patients with allergies or autoimmune conditions, stem cells—particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)—offer the potential to:

• Reduce the severity of allergic reactions

• Calm overactive immune systems

• Support long-term immune balance and tissue healing

While more research is needed before stem cell therapy becomes a mainstream treatment for these conditions, the evidence so far is highly encouraging.

At Dekabi Stem Cell Clinic in Seoul, we bring more than 22 years of experience in stem cell therapy and 34 years of medical expertise to every patient. Under the guidance of Dr. Eun Young Baek, a pioneer in regenerative medicine, we specialize in personalized stem cell treatments designed to restore balance, relieve chronic conditions, and support healthy aging.

For patients struggling with persistent allergies or autoimmune diseases, stem cell therapy may provide a safe, innovative pathway to long-term wellness.