Treatment of ischemic stroke with modified mesenchymal stem cells

Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability. Ischemia triggers a cascade of events leading to cell death and cerebral infarction. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is a promising treatment modality to promote the development of nerve and blood vessels and improve nerve function. However, MSCs have a limited therapeutic effect in the harsh microenvironment of ischemic brain tissue. Modified MSC therapy shows better therapeutic effect under different pathological conditions, and is expected to be translated into clinical practice. In this article, we review the latest advances in the development of modified MSCs for the treatment of cerebral ischemia. In particular, we summarize the targets involved in migration, homing, antioxidant stress, anti-inflammatory, nerve and vascular regeneration, providing new ideas for clinical transformation.

Automated summary

Ischemic stroke is a major cause of death and disability, and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy holds promise as a treatment modality. However, the therapeutic effect of MSCs is limited in the harsh microenvironment of ischemic brain tissue. Modified MSC therapy has shown better outcomes under different pathological conditions, and is expected to be translated into clinical practice.