The cell-based approach in neurosurgery: ongoing trends and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Neurosurgery is evolving from a mechanical to a biological discipline.
• Advancements in translational medicine and nanotechnologies are driving this evolution.
• Cell-based therapies represent a key area of this paradigm shift.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine current trends in cell-based therapies for neurosurgery.
• To explore future perspectives and challenges in this field.
• To review the application of cell and tissue-based therapies in neurosurgical contexts.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE database.
• Inclusion of articles on cell/tissue-based therapies combined with neurosurgical terms (brain, spinal cord, spine, skull).
• Selection limited to English articles published in the last 10 years.

Main Results:

• 1,173 relevant articles were identified.
• Somatic cells and gene-modification technologies show significant development.
• Immunotherapies and gene therapies target glioblastoma; stem cells address traumatic injuries and bony defects.
• Most trials are in Phase 2; challenges include immunogenicity, oncogenicity, and delivery methods.

Conclusions:

• Neurosurgery is transitioning to a biological approach, influenced by translational medicine and nanotechnologies.
• Key future challenges include optimizing existing technologies, introducing new ones, and reducing costs.
• Further refinement of vector design and delivery is crucial for gene therapies.