Regenerative Therapies for Central Nervous System Diseases: a Biomaterials Approach

The central nervous system (CNS) has limited ability to repair itself after injury or disease. Current treatments often fail to fully restore function. Researchers are exploring new methods using biomaterials to help the CNS regenerate. Cell therapy, which involves transplanting stem cells, has shown promise but faces challenges like poor cell survival and integration. Similarly, delivering drugs to the CNS is difficult because of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Biomaterials, especially hydrogels, are being developed as delivery vehicles for cells and drugs. These materials can protect cells, improve their integration into the CNS, and provide localized and sustained release of therapeutic molecules.

• 1
  Biomaterial hydrogels can enhance cell survival and integration in the CNS by mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) and providing physical support.
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  Hydrogels can be designed to deliver bioactive molecules, such as growth factors, to promote neuroprotection, plasticity, and stimulate endogenous stem cells.
• 3
  Combination strategies involving cells, bioactive molecules, and biomaterials show promise for enhancing cell survival, integration, and localized drug delivery in the CNS.