From Bench to Bedside: The Evolving Landscape of Stem Cell Therapies for Stroke Rehabilitation

Globally, stroke stands as a principal cause of death and disability, presenting formidable challenges in rehabilitation. Conventional therapeutic modalities often fail to restore functional capabilities fully, underscoring the need for innovative treatment strategies. Stem cell therapy emerges as a revolutionary approach, capitalizing on the regenerative capabilities of stem cells to improve neurological function poststroke. This review evaluates the roles of various stem cell types-mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-in the realm of stroke recovery. It elucidates their distinct biological mechanisms, evaluates their therapeutic impact based on clinical trial data, and discusses their efficacy in fostering neural repair and recovery. MSCs are particularly noted for their role in immunomodulation and promotion of angiogenesis and neurogenesis, with clinical evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness in stroke recovery. NSCs are lauded for their ability to differentiate into diverse neural lineages. They integrate into neural circuits to enhance synaptic connectivity and neuroplasticity. iPSCs, known for their versatility, can be tailored to patient-specific needs and are shown in preclinical settings to reduce infarct size and promote the survival of neuronal cells. However, the field grapples with challenges, including optimizing stem cell transplantation timing, precision in cell delivery, integration efficiency, and immune system compatibility. These issues call for harmonization of methodologies across ongoing studies to ensure the reliability and consistency of therapeutic outcomes. This review highlights the promising future and challenges of stem cell therapy for treatment of stroke.