Stem cells for spinal cord regeneration: Current status

Surgical Neurology International, 2010 · DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.74240 · Published: December 25, 2010

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) affect thousands annually, with limited rehabilitative options. Stem cells are being researched for their ability to differentiate into neural cells, potentially replacing damaged tissue and forming new connections. Various stem cell sources, including autologous, fetal, embryonic, adult, Schwann cells, genetically modified fibroblasts, bone stromal cells, and olfactory ensheathing cells, are being explored to repair spinal cord injuries. Stem cell transplantation for SCI is promising, with animal and in vitro studies providing a basis for human trials. Olfactory ensheathing cells and bone marrow stromal cells show particularly strong therapeutic potential.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Animal and in vitro studies, also includes review of human trials.

Evidence Level

Review Article

Key Findings

1
Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) appear to be the most promising stem cell type for spinal cord regeneration due to their supportive role in axonal regeneration.
2
Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) show promise as an adjunctive therapy due to their immunologic compatibility and ability to express growth factors.
3
The therapeutic strategy for stem cell transplantation in spinal cord regeneration requires stringent scientific criteria to avoid pseudo-science and opportunism.

Research Summary

This review article discusses the potential of stem cell transplantation for spinal cord regeneration, highlighting the limitations of current management options for SCI and the underlying mechanisms of injury. It explores various sources of stem cells, including cord blood, placenta-derived stem cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, embryonic stem cells, and bone marrow stromal cells, and their potential application in SCI management. The article concludes that stem cell transplantation is a promising strategy, with olfactory ensheathing cells and bone marrow stromal cells showing particular promise, but emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific trials.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Development

Further research and clinical trials are needed to develop effective stem cell therapies for spinal cord injury, particularly focusing on olfactory ensheathing cells and bone marrow stromal cells.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical concerns surrounding embryonic stem cells and other sources must be addressed to ensure responsible and ethical application of stem cell therapies.

Clinical Translation

Stringent scientific criteria and rigorous trials are essential to translate promising preclinical results into effective and safe clinical treatments for spinal cord injury.

Study Limitations

1
Ethical and moral issues surrounding stem cell sources.
2
Limitations in extraction, culture, and transplantation of stem cells.
3
Challenge of preventing tumor formation after neural stem cell transplantation.

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