Stem Cell-Based Neuroprotective and Neurorestorative Strategies

Abstract

Stem cells, a special subset of cells derived from embryo or adult tissues, are known to present the characteristics of self-renewal, multiple lineages of differentiation, high plastic capability, and long-term maintenance. Recent reports have further suggested that neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from the adult hippocampal and subventricular regions possess the utilizing potential to develop the transplantation strategies and to screen the candidate agents for neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and neuroplasticity in neurodegenerative diseases. In this article, we review the roles of NSCs and other stem cells in neuroprotective and neurorestorative therapies for neurological and psychiatric diseases. We show the evidences that NSCs play the key roles involved in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders, including depression, stroke and Parkinson’s disease. Moreover, the potential and possible utilities of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), reprogramming from adult fibroblasts with ectopic expression of four embryonic genes, are also reviewed and further discussed. An understanding of the biophysiology of stem cells could help us elucidate the pathogenicity and develop new treatments for neurodegenerative disorders. In contrast to cell transplantation therapies, the application of stem cells can further provide a platform for drug discovery and small molecular testing, including Chinese herbal medicines. In addition, the high-throughput stem cell-based systems can be used to elucidate the mechanisms of neuroprotective candidates in translation medical research for neurodegenerative diseases.

Stem Cell Technology for the Study and Treatment of Motor Neuron Diseases

“…While there are abundant data supporting the potential efficacy of cellular replacement therapies in motor neuron disease, there are certain issues that must be considered before designing a trial and translating therapies to patients [96–98]. Selection of the appropriate cell type is imperative to achieve the desired neuroprotective outcomes; appropriate amounts of cells must be accessible and available, and they must exhibit the characteristics that are predicted to confer neuroprotection while avoiding the potential for tumor formation.…”

Patient-Specific Pluripotent Stem Cells in Neurological Diseases

“…They usually cause morbidity and mortality as well as increase social and economic burdens of patients and their caregivers [1]. Stroke is one of the leading cause, of death and the primary cause of morbidity and long-term neurological disability.…”

Remodeling of Cerebral Microcirculation after Ischemia-Reperfusion

“…The brain, in a similar manner to the heart, requires constant perfusion to maintain the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the neurons [1,2,3,4,5]. Specifically, the brain is the organ in the human body with the highest energy consumption due to its essential neuronal activity; for these characteristics, oxygen deprivation in the cerebral tissues can only be tolerated for seconds before significant damage is done.…”