Current perspectives in stem cell therapy for spinal cord repair in humans: A review of work from the past 10 years

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) and amyotrophic laterals sclerosis (ALS) are devastating neurological conditions that affect individuals worldwide, significantly reducing quality of life, both for patients and their relatives. Objective: The present review aims to summarize the multiple restorative approaches being developed for spinal cord repair, the use of different stem cell types and the current knowledge regarding stem cell therapy. Method: Review of the literature from the past 10 years of human studies using stem cell transplantation as the main therapy, with or without adjuvant therapies. Conclusion: The current review offers an overview of the state of the art regarding spinal cord restoration, and serves as a starting point for future studies.