Could a single stem cell infusion help both alcoholism and depression?
NCT ID NCT03265808
First seen Jan 10, 2026 · Last updated Jun 22, 2026 · Updated 25 times
Summary
This early-stage trial tested whether a one-time infusion of donor stem cells is safe for people with both alcohol use disorder and major depression. Thirty-one participants received either the stem cells or a placebo. The main goal was to check for serious side effects, like suicidal thoughts or hospital stays. Researchers also looked at changes in inflammation levels in the blood.
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
Harlingen, Texas, 78550, United States
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
donor stem cells (allogeneic human mesenchymal stem cells)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people struggling with both alcohol use disorder and depression.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small trial (31 people) focused mainly on safety, not effectiveness. The stem cells are from donors, so the body might reject them, and long-term benefits are uncertain.
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.