Progression of mesenchymal stem cell regulation on imbalanced microenvironment after spinal cord injury

Abstract

Abstract Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in significant neural damage and inhibition of axonal regeneration due to an imbalanced microenvironment. Extensive evidence supports the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation as a therapeutic approach for SCI. This review aims to present an overview of MSC regulation on the imbalanced microenvironment following SCI, specifically focusing on inflammation, neurotrophy and axonal regeneration. The application, limitations and future prospects of MSC transplantation are discussed as well. Generally, a comprehensive perspective is provided for the clinical translation of MSC transplantation for SCI.

Keywords

• Spinal cord injury
• Mesenchymal stem cells
• Microenvironment imbalance
• Paracrine