The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery (Jun 2024)

Stem cell therapies in stroke rehabilitation: a narrative review of current strategies and future prospects

  • Nicholas Aderinto,
  • Gbolahan Olatunji,
  • Emmanuel Kokori,
  • Adetola Emmanuel Babalola,
  • Ismaila Ajayi Yusuf,
  • Oluwatobiloba Oluwatomisin Apampa,
  • Bonaventure Michael Ukoaka,
  • John Ehi Aboje,
  • Temiloluwa Adefusi,
  • Abdulrahmon Moradeyo,
  • Opabode Muntaqim Obasanjo,
  • Ikponmwosa Jude Ogieuhi,
  • Oluwatobi Omoworare,
  • Doyin Olatunji

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s41983-024-00851-7
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 60, no. 1
pp. 1 – 16

Abstract

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Abstract This paper explores the potential of stem cell therapies in revolutionising stroke recovery, addressing the limitations of current treatments and emphasising regenerative medicine as a promising alternative. Stroke, a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, necessitates innovative approaches due to the temporal constraints and regenerative deficiencies in existing therapeutic modalities. The review explores the diverse mechanisms underlying stem cell-mediated recovery, encompassing neuroprotection, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses, and induction of host brain plasticity. We searched prominent databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) from inception to January 2024 for studies on “stem cell therapy” or “regenerative medicine” combined with “stroke recovery” or “cerebrovascular accident”. Studies in humans and animals, published in peer-reviewed journals, and investigating the impact of stem cell therapy on stroke recovery were included. We excluded non-English publications and those lacking sufficient outcome data. Evidence from animal studies demonstrates the efficacy of various stem cell types, while human studies, though limited, contribute valuable insights into safety and potential efficacy. Safety considerations, crucial for successful clinical application, emphasise the need for rigorous preclinical and clinical studies, long-term follow-up data, and ethical standards. Challenges in the field, such as study design heterogeneity, optimising stem cell delivery methods, and identifying subpopulations likely to benefit, require concerted efforts to overcome. Standardising methodologies, refining delivery routes, and personalising interventions based on biomarkers are essential. This review positions stem cell therapies as promising for comprehensive neural tissue recovery following stroke.

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