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Cell transplantation for central nervous system disorders
T K Koutouzis1, D F Emerich, C V Borlongan
1Department of Surgery, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa 33612.
Critical Reviews in Neurobiology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Neural transplantation shows promise for neurodegenerative diseases, with fetal tissue improving some animal models. However, inconsistent results necessitate further research for safe and effective human therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Regenerative Medicine
- Neurobiology
Background:
- Mammalian nervous system regeneration studies initially focused on transplantation.
- Fetal tissue transplantation has advanced understanding of neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and behavioral effects of fetal tissue transplantation in animal models.
- To critically analyze the suitability of neural transplantation for neurological disorders.
- To discuss alternative approaches like encapsulated implants and cell lines.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on fetal neural tissue transplantation.
- Analysis of neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and behavioral outcomes in animal models.
- Evaluation of both positive and adverse effects of transplantation.
Main Results:
- Fetal neural tissue transplantation ameliorates some CNS disorder symptoms in animal models.
- Modest progress observed in Parkinson's disease clinical trials.
- Transplantation can yield no benefits, worsen deficits, or cause unique problems.
Conclusions:
- Neural transplantation holds promise but requires refinement for widespread therapeutic value.
- Further investigation is crucial to improve transplantation paradigms.
- Alternative strategies like cell-based therapies warrant consideration.