Combination of RNA Interference and Stem Cells for Treatment of Central Nervous System Diseases

Abstract

RNA interference (RNAi), including microRNAs, is an important player in the mediation of differentiation and migration of stem cells via target genes. It is used as a potential strategy for gene therapy for central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Stem cells are considered vectors of RNAi due to their capacity to deliver RNAi to other cells. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in studies of RNAi pathways in controlling neuronal differentiation and migration of stem cells. We also highlight the utilization of a combination of RNAi and stem cells in treatment of CNS diseases.

Recent advances of dendrimer in targeted delivery of drugs and genes to stem cells as cellular vehicles

“…16 In some researches, it was shown that the introduction of therapeutic drugs, transgenes, and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into MSCs did not interfere with their proliferation and differentiation capacities. 17 Regarding the above-mentioned examples, it can be concluded that using the nanocarriers that have been successful in drug-delivery systems, including dendrimers, for delivering genes to SCs can be helpful in extending the survival of these cells and preventing their senescence.…”

“…SCs are generally hard‐to‐transfect and their differentiation status, viability, tumorigenicity and capacity for migration and invasion should be controlled during transfection 16 . In some researches, it was shown that the introduction of therapeutic drugs, transgenes, and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) into MSCs did not interfere with their proliferation and differentiation capacities 17 …”