Stem cell grafts as therapeutic tools for central nervous system disorders.

Abstract

The last few years have seen a growing interest in stem cell research. The media has helped to keep attention to the subject making it as popular as therapeutic cloning. A number of studies highlighted the importance of stem cells as prospective therapy for neurodegenerative conditions. The possibility of successful treatment for such pathologies using stem cells has raised enormous hope. Whilst in some countries biotechnologists have realised the commercial potential of the field, human stem cell research and its clinical applications have constantly been subject of ethical and legal debate. The present review brings an overview of recent aspects of stem cell research for central nervous system disorders, with special attention to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, cerebral ischemic insult and spinal cord injury. Furthermore, the ethical implications regarding the use of embryonic stem cells as a fundamentally more promising cell type are discussed.

Modelos animales de degeneración cognitiva y uso de transplantes neurales de células madre como terapia

“…Several experiments have demonstrated that SCs' grafts ameliorate a variety of CNS conditions. However, crucial issues such as functional connectivity, in vivo differentiation and survival, potential for migration to areas of lesion, host's immune reactions or mechanisms regulating these functions, are still to be addressed (Oliveira et al, 2008). Existing clinical data suggest that transplantation is technically feasible and can be carried out safely.…”

“…Nevertheless, data on functional outcome and long-term efficiency remains preliminary (Andresa et al, 2008). A greater understanding of the neurobiological and molecular factors that determine the progress of the brain disorder will probably lead to safer treatments (Oliveira et al, 2008).…”

“…Bone marrow mesenchymal SCs (BM-MSC) show a great potential of proliferating and differentiating into several types of cells, and present two major advantages over other cell sources: accessibility and immunological features (Oliveira, Haeser, & Pranke, 2008). Besides this, the use of BM-MSC's for grafts circumvents the ethical concerns attached to the use of embryonic cells.…”