Crosstalk between stem cell and spinal cord injury: pathophysiology and treatment strategies

Spinal cord injuries are hard to heal. Stem cells can turn into different kinds of cells, including nerve cells, and might help by becoming new nerve cells, protecting existing cells, or reducing swelling. Many types of stem cells are being studied for use in spinal cord injuries. Stem cells can replace damaged cells, reduce inflammation, and release helpful substances that improve the environment and encourage tissue regeneration. Stem cell therapy is considered the most promising treatment in regenerative medicine.

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  NSCs can differentiate into neurons to replace lost ones, creating relay circuits to bridge disrupted tracts, and secrete growth-promoting factors.
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  MSCs release anti-inflammatory factors and cytokines, improving the microenvironment and promoting self-repair.
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  ESCs can differentiate into neurons and glial cells to supplement cell defects caused by SCI, while also secreting factors to inhibit further damage and support nerve tissue regeneration.