An Insight into the Prospects and Drawbacks of Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injuries: Ongoing Trials and Future Directions

Brain Sci., 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121697 · Published: December 9, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) severely impact a person's life, leading to loss of movement and sensation. Current treatments aren't very effective, so researchers are exploring stem cell therapy to repair the damaged spinal cord. Stem cells have the ability to regenerate tissue and repair lost or damaged cells. Scientists are studying different types of stem cells like embryonic, induced pluripotent, mesenchymal, and hematopoietic stem cells to see how they can restore function after SCI. This review examines the benefits and drawbacks of using stem cell therapy for SCI based on clinical evidence. It also discusses different types of stem cell treatments and what the future might hold for this field of research.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

SCI patients in clinical trials

Evidence Level

Review of clinical trials

Key Findings

1
Stem cells have shown potential in improving motor and sensory function in animal models of SCI, enhancing axon regeneration, reducing inflammation, and increasing tissue repair.
2
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been widely studied in SCI treatment due to their abundance and ease of preparation. Some studies show functional improvements in patients with acute and chronic SCI after MSC transplantation.
3
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) also show promise, with some patients experiencing sensory or motor improvement after HSC implantation. Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs) can replace damaged neural tissue and may lead to slight neurological improvement.

Research Summary

Stem cell therapy is considered a promising treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI), aiming to facilitate cellular and tissue regeneration and enhance functional recovery. Stem cells produce various growth factors that contribute to motor and sensory improvement, axon regeneration, inflammation reduction, and increased tissue repair, as well as relief from neuropathic pain. Despite the potential, challenges remain, including adverse effects like neuropathic pain and the need for further research to clarify the role of stem cells in functional recovery and to establish proper management guidelines.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

Stem cell therapy offers a potential avenue for SCI treatment, with the possibility of improving motor and sensory functions.

Personalized Medicine

The use of autologous stem cells, such as iPSCs and MSCs, can reduce the risk of rejection and enable personalized treatment approaches.

Combined Therapies

Combining stem cell therapy with other treatments like physical therapy and electrical stimulation may enhance the effectiveness of SCI treatment.

Study Limitations

1
Careful selection of the most suitable stem cell type is crucial.
2
The lack of viable stem cell sources is a substantial hurdle.
3
The delivery of stem cells to the injured area is an obstacle that should not be underestimated.

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