Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for acute ischemic stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biotherapy

Background:

• Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) possesses anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
• G-CSF is known to mobilize stem cells, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.
• Acute ischemic stroke presents a critical need for effective treatments with neuroprotective capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of G-CSF therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
• To assess the efficacy of G-CSF in improving neurological outcomes following acute cerebral infarction.
• To investigate the impact of G-CSF on cerebral metabolism in the affected brain regions.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, blinded controlled trial was conducted with 10 patients diagnosed with acute cerebral infarction.
• Patients with NIHSS scores between 9 and 20, presenting within 7 days of onset, were enrolled.
• The G-CSF group (n=7) received daily subcutaneous injections for 5 days, compared to a control group receiving usual care.

Main Results:

• All patients completed treatment without severe adverse effects, indicating G-CSF safety and feasibility.
• The G-CSF group demonstrated significantly greater improvement in neurological function scores (NIHSS, ESS, EMS, BI) at 12-month follow-up compared to the control group.
• G-CSF treatment led to improved cerebral glucose metabolism in the area surrounding the ischemic core, correlating with motor function recovery.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary findings suggest G-CSF is a safe and feasible therapeutic option for acute ischemic stroke.
• G-CSF therapy resulted in enhanced neurological recovery and improved brain metabolism in stroke patients.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and establish G-CSF as a standard treatment for acute stroke.