Use of bone marrow mesenchymal (stromal) stem cells in experimental ischemic stroke in rats

The effects of human mesenchymal stem cells on neurological functions and behavioral reactions of animals and on damaged brain tissue were studied on the model of focal cerebral ischemia in rats. Homing and differentiation of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells were also studied. Significant regression of neurological disorders after cell transplantation was noted, no appreciable shifts were detected by magnetic resonance tomography. Homing of transplanted cells was detected mainly in the zone of focal ischemia. Some cells died, others exhibited signs of differentiation into neurons and glia.