World-first stem-cell therapy shows promise for treating spina bifida in the womb

Nature

by Rachel Fieldhouse

February 27, 2026

Six pregnant women participated in a small trial in which placenta-derived stem cells were applied to fetal spinal cords and the treatment was found to be safe. Six pregnant women participated in a small trial in which placenta-derived stem cells were applied to fetal spinal cords and the treatment was found to be safe.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/27/2026