Therapeutic Potential of Olfactory Ensheathing Cells and Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that reduces the quality of life for patients and their families. Cell therapy is a growing area of interest for SCI. Mesenchymal stem cells and olfactory ensheathing cells show therapeutic impact on damaged spinal cords and might be useful in neuroregeneration, giving patients hope for recovery. Current treatments focus on neuroprotection (preventing further damage) and neuroregeneration (repairing damaged neuronal circuitry). Stem cell-based strategies are promising for repairing SCI, with various cell types being tested. Optimal therapies should stimulate axonal growth, stop cell death, and replace injured cells. This review focuses on olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), which stimulate axonal growth, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which regulate the immune system, decreasing cell death. These cells are potential candidates for therapy in patients with spinal cord injuries.

• 1
  Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) express neurotrophic factors that are important for axon extension and guidance. They can migrate from the peripheral to the central nervous system, enhancing axonal extension after injury.
• 2
  Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have neuroprotective and paracrine abilities. They secrete nerve growth factor and neurotrophin-3, which support axonal growth. MSCs are easily obtainable, can be expanded in vitro, and have a reduced risk of malignant transformation.
• 3
  Animal studies have shown that OEC and MSC transplantation can mediate regeneration and functional reconnection of severed axons in spinal cord injuries. Clinical trials have demonstrated some benefits and safety in using these cells in humans, although results are inconsistent.