Dr. Douglas Abeles on Stem Cell Use in Fracture Repair

(Newswire.net — January 31, 2017) Castro Valley, California — Over the past decade, experienced orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Dr. Douglas J. Abeles, MD, has seen the development of many revolutionary treatment options. Of particular interest to him is revolutionary research that may lead to new treatments to improve bone repair outcomes in patients with diabetes. One of the common complications for patients afflicted with diabetes is the difficulty in recovering from bone fractures. With over 420 million people with diabetes worldwide, bone healing complications can affect millions of patients each year. “Improvements in bone fracture treatment for patients with diabetes can help those patients recover more quickly,” says Dr. Doug. “Such research is aimed at improving the quality of life for affected patients.” To learn more about the research study, visit https://www.doximity.com/pub/douglas-abeles-md

In the research, conducted by a team of researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine in Palo Alto, California, a protein that stimulates bone stem cell growth was discovered. In mice bred to develop type 2 diabetes as well as in bone samples collected from diabetic humans, reduced bone stem cell activity can cause bone fractures to heal poorly, resulting in weakened skeletal support. When researchers applied the protein to bone fracture sites in the mice, more complete healing of the fractures was observed. In diabetic mice and in human patients, reduced levels of so-called “hedgehog” signaling proteins were also observed. These proteins are critical for tissue regeneration and other biological processes. The protein molecule discovered by the researchers could reverse the damaging effects of diabetes inflammation on bone growth, leading to stronger, more complete healing in patients. The study’s findings were reported in Science Translational Medicine, a journal published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). “Further research is needed, but these initial findings show great promise,” adds Dr. Abeles. “Stimulating the activity of adult stem cells can result in in more complete, more efficient skeletal fracture healing.”

Dr. Douglas Abeles, MD, founded Abeles MD & Associates in Castro Valley, California over ten years ago. Dr. Abeles specializes in minimally-invasive surgical procedures to correct spinal and joint disorders as well as fractures of bones. He and his talented staff at the clinical practice are known for their compassionate care and comprehensive treatment options. The team at the clinic is continually searching for better ways to help patients regain mobility and to lead happier, healthier lives, and the Stanford University research represents a path forward for orthopedic specialists. “The future holds great promise for the treatment of bone fractures,” says Dr. Doug. For more information on his clinic and his credentials as a board-certified medical provider, visit https://about.me/drdouglasabeles