Creating permissive microenvironments for stem cell transplantation into the central nervous system

Trends Biotechnol. 2012 Jan;30(1):55-63. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2011.07.002. Epub 2011 Aug 9.

Abstract

Traumatic injury to the central nervous system (CNS) is highly debilitating, with the clinical need for regenerative therapies apparent. Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) are promising because they can repopulate lost or damaged cells and tissues. However, the adult CNS does not provide an optimal milieu for exogenous NSPCs to survive, engraft, differentiate, and integrate with host tissues. This review provides an overview of tissue engineering strategies to improve stem cell therapies by providing a defined microenvironment during transplantation. The use of biomaterials for physical support, growth factor delivery, and cellular co-transplantation are discussed. Providing the proper environment for stem cell survival and host tissue integration is crucial in realizing the full potential of these cells in CNS repair strategies.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biocompatible Materials / administration & dosage
  • Brain Injuries / pathology
  • Brain Injuries / physiopathology*
  • Brain Injuries / therapy*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Survival
  • Cellular Microenvironment*
  • Graft Survival*
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / administration & dosage
  • Neural Stem Cells / cytology
  • Neural Stem Cells / transplantation
  • Stem Cell Transplantation*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins