Respir Physiol Neurobiol, 2009 · DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2009.07.016 · Published: November 30, 2009
Neural and non-neural tissue and cell transplantation is a viable option for ameliorating dysfunctions to markedly improve quality of life after central nervous system (CNS) injuries and diseases. Transplants may replace lost neurons, restore neurotransmitter levels, and reconstruct damaged neural circuitry. Transplants can serve as a bridge supporting axonal growth across the injury site.
The enormity of and annual escalation of healthcare costs due to CNS injuries and diseases require that therapeutic strategies be responsibly developed.
Future repair strategies will likely include a combination of multiple approaches such as cell transplantation, boosting intrinsic regenerative capacity, decomposing the glial scar, generating growth-promoting pathways, and enhancing synaptic reconnection.
Future clinical trials need to adhere to recommendations for their scientific and ethical conduct, including preclinical results, randomized trials with placebo control interventions, and objective pre- and post-surgery assessments.