New methods for the treatment of radiological burns?

For ten years now cell therapy has been revolutionizing the treatment of skin burns resulting from localized overexposure to ionizing radiation. Close collaboration between the teams of IRSN and Percy Hospital (Clamart, Hauts-de-Seine) has demonstrated the effectiveness of injecting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in eleven patients, in addition to surgery. However, the use of MSCs has limits, in particular as regards access to samples and the time required for cell culture. IRSN's researchers are continuing to explore the possibility of using other types of stem cells. Several options are promising for the case of radiological accidents or complications from radiation therapy. (author)