Advances toward regenerative medicine in the central nervous system: challenges in making stem cell therapy a viable clinical strategy

The article discusses the challenges and progress in using stem cell-based therapies for nervous system disorders. Initial excitement has waned, and it's time to assess the hurdles and advancements in regenerative medicine for the central nervous system. Basic research has revealed mechanisms controlling cell growth and specialization, how to direct stem cells into nerve cell types, and the limitations to regeneration in the damaged central nervous system. This review discusses how ongoing basic research is crucial for identifying both barriers and potential pathways for regenerative therapy in the central nervous system.

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  The adult central nervous system is generally resistant to regeneration, posing unique challenges for stem cell therapies.
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  Age-related decline in regenerative potential is a significant obstacle, as the aging central nervous system environment becomes less supportive of new neurons and more conducive to glial cells.
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  Practical issues for stem cell therapies include designing a clinical-grade manufacturing process, selecting relevant patient populations, and monitoring transplanted cells.