Could stem cells help COVID-19 patients breathe easier?
NCT ID NCT04615429
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a single dose of stem cells (mesenchymal stromal cells) could help patients with severe COVID-19 lung inflammation breathe better. Twenty adults with confirmed COVID-19 and acute respiratory distress syndrome were randomly assigned to receive either the stem cells or a placebo. The main goal was to see if oxygen levels in the blood improved within a week.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- mesenchymal stromal cells (a type of stem cell)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could point toward a new treatment to improve breathing and survival in severe COVID-19 lung inflammation.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early-phase trial with only 20 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The treatment may not improve outcomes and could cause side effects like allergic reactions or infection.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro-Majadahonda
Majadahonda, Madrid, 28222, Spain
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