Bone marrow stem cell delivery methods, routes, time, efficacy, and safety

Abstract

Stem cell transplantation offers an exciting new therapeutic avenue for stroke, as many studies have demonstrated favorable results in animal models with various cell types. Several early phase I and II clinical trials are now underway with promising outcomes. However, cell transplantation for stroke is still in its infancy with many issues that need to be addressed in order to achieve full potential as a therapy. Among the major hurdles for a successful clinical translation is determining the optimal conditions of transplantation for stroke. In this chapter, we review the impact of implanted cell number, delivery sites of cells, and transplantation time on the stroke outcome. In addition, we also discuss the efficacy and safety of bone marrow stem cell transplantation for stroke treatment.