Stem Cell Strategies in Promoting Neuronal Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review
Lapo Bonosi, Manikon Poullay Silven, Antonio Alessandro Biancardino, Andrea Sciortino, Giuseppe Roberto Giammalva, Alba Scerrati, Carmelo Lucio Sturiale, Alessio Albanese, Silvana Tumbiolo, Massimiliano Visocchi, Domenico Gerardo Iacopino, Rosario Maugeri
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with a significant medical and socioeconomic impact. To date, no effective treatment is available that can enable neuronal regeneration and recovery of function at the damaged level. This is thought to be due to scar formation, axonal degeneration and a strong inflammatory response inducing a loss of neurons followed by a cascade of events that leads to further spinal cord damage. Many experimental studies demonstrate the therapeutic effect of stem cells in SCI due to their ability to differentiate into neuronal cells and release neurotrophic factors. Therefore, it appears to be a valid strategy to use in the field of regenerative medicine. This review aims to provide an up-to-date summary of the current research status, challenges, and future directions for stem cell therapy in SCI models, providing an overview of this constantly evolving and promising field.