Stem Cell Therapy Boosts Quality of Life for Babies with Spina Bifida

Groundbreaking CuRE trial shows promise in reversing neurological damage during pregnancy

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A pioneering trial led by Dr. Diana Farmer at the University of California, Davis has demonstrated that applying stem cells to the spinal cords of unborn babies with spina bifida during surgery is safe and shows promising signs of improving mobility and quality of life. The Cellular Therapy for In Utero Repair (CuRE) trial involved six pregnant women carrying babies diagnosed with myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida. MRI scans confirmed a reversal of hindbrain herniation, a dangerous complication, in all six cases with no adverse effects.

Why it matters

Spina bifida is a debilitating birth defect that can lead to paralysis, bladder and bowel control issues, and hydrocephalus. Current treatments focus on surgical repair after birth, but this doesn't always prevent long-term neurological damage. The success of the CuRE trial suggests that intervening in utero with stem cell therapy could significantly improve outcomes for children with spina bifida, offering renewed hope for affected families.

The details

Between 24 and 25 weeks of gestation, surgeons applied placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) directly to the exposed spinal cords of the fetuses. PMSCs, obtained from donated placentas, have previously shown promise in laboratory settings for protecting and promoting the growth of neurons. The stem cell therapy did not cause any adverse effects such as tumor growth, infection, or wound healing complications.

  • The CuRE trial took place between 24 and 25 weeks of gestation.
  • The babies were born after the stem cell procedure.

The players

Dr. Diana Farmer

A surgeon at the University of California, Davis who led the CuRE trial.

Shine

A charity that provides support and resources for people affected by spina bifida.

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What they’re saying

“If it makes more children able to walk who wouldn't have then it would become their standard of care.”

— Dr. Diana Farmer, Surgeon, University of California, Davis

“The results are very exciting, highlighting the remarkable advances in stem cell science that made the trial possible.”

— Kate Steele, CEO, Shine

What’s next

Further research is needed to confirm the benefits of this stem cell therapy before it can become widely available as a standard treatment for spina bifida.

The takeaway

The success of the CuRE trial demonstrates the potential of regenerative medicine to address a range of birth defects and neurological conditions, offering hope for families affected by spina bifida and the possibility of improved mobility and quality of life for children born with this condition.