Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Eur Neurol. 2020;83(3):235-241. doi: 10.1159/000509268. Epub 2020 Jul 20.

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disease is a kind of chronic, progressive nervous system disease characterized by neuron degeneration or apoptosis. Current treatments cannot prevent the development of the disease. Possible alternative treatments include cell therapy, especially with the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs are pluripotent stem cells with capacities for self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation. MSCs may serve as a reliable source of neural cells for potential cell replacement therapy or regenerative medicine treatment. Here, we summarized the therapeutic mechanisms of MSCs and how they can contribute to the development of treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Keywords: Clinical treatment; Mechanism; Mesenchymal stem cells; Neurodegenerative diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation / methods*
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells / physiology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / therapy*