Human Adult Bone Marrow-Derived Somatic Cell Therapy Results in Functional Recovery and Axonal Plasticity Following Stroke in the Rat

Exp Neurol, 2008 · DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2008.02.027 · Published: June 1, 2008

Stroke Recovery Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

Stroke often leads to lasting disabilities because of nerve damage. Currently, there are limited treatments available once this damage has occurred. This study explores using human bone marrow cells (hABM-SC) to promote recovery after a stroke in rats. These cells can release substances that help nerve cells grow and repair themselves. The research found that rats treated with hABM-SCs after a stroke showed improvement in their ability to use their forelimbs, suggesting that the treatment helped their brains rewire and recover function.

Study Duration

10 weeks

Participants

22 adult male Long Evans black-hooded rats

Evidence Level

Level II, Experimental Study

Key Findings

1
hABM-SC therapy after stroke in rats led to significant functional recovery in a skilled forelimb task.
2
The functional recovery was correlated with increased axonal outgrowth of the corticorubral tract from the uninjured hemisphere.
3
hABM-SC therapy did not reduce the size of the stroke lesion, suggesting the recovery was due to neuroplasticity rather than tissue regeneration.

Research Summary

This study investigates the effect of human adult bone marrow-derived somatic cells (hABM-SC) on stroke recovery in rats. hABM-SC treatment led to improved forelimb function on a skilled motor task, indicating functional recovery. The recovery was associated with increased axonal sprouting from the uninjured hemisphere, suggesting a mechanism of structural neuroplasticity.

Practical Implications

Potential Stroke Therapy

hABM-SCs could be a potential therapy for stroke, enhancing functional recovery by promoting neuroplasticity.

Clinical Translation

The use of hABM-SCs derived from a single donor could facilitate the development of a translational therapy for stroke.

Understanding Neuroplasticity

The study provides insights into the role of axonal plasticity in stroke recovery and the potential of cell-based therapies to enhance this process.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on rats, and the results may not directly translate to humans.
2
The complete mechanism of repair by hABM-SCs is still unclear.
3
Further research is needed to optimize the delivery and dosage of hABM-SCs for stroke therapy.

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