Neuroprotection: the emerging concept of restorative neural stem cell biology for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Curr Neuropharmacol. 2011 Jun;9(2):313-7. doi: 10.2174/157015911795596603.

Abstract

During the past decades Neural Stem Cells have been considered as an alternative source of cells to replace lost neurons and NSC transplantation has been indicated as a promising treatment for neurodegenerative disorders. Nevertheless, the current understanding of NSC biology suggests that, far from being mere spare parts for cell replacement therapies, NSCs could play a key role in the pharmacology of neuroprotection and become protagonists of innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we review this new emerging concept of NSC biology.

Keywords: Neural stem cells; neurodegenerative disorders; neuroprotection; neurotrophic factors; oxidative stress..