THE USE OF STEM CELLS IN THE TREATMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES - CURRENT STATE OF RESEARCH AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES
Abstract
Introduction and aim: Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, remain highly challenging due to their progressive course and lack of disease-modifying therapies. Stem cell-based strategies are increasingly investigated for their potential in neuroregeneration, immunomodulation and functional recovery. This study aims to summarize current evidence on stem cell applications in neurodegenerative diseases based on recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Material and methods: A structured literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar using the terms “stem cells,” “neurodegenerative diseases,” “clinical trials,” “systematic review,” and “meta-analysis.” Eligible publications included English-language systematic reviews and human studies from 2015–2025. Over 30 relevant sources were analyzed by disease type and stem cell modality.
Results: Most studies report a favorable safety profile, particularly with mesenchymal (MSC), neural (NSC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). Clinical trials in Parkinson’s disease demonstrated measurable motor improvements, while applications in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries showed immunomodulatory and functional benefits. Evidence in Alzheimer’s disease and ALS remains limited and preliminary. Across conditions, heterogeneity of methods and small sample sizes reduce generalizability.
Conclusions: Stem cell therapy shows promise as an innovative approach in neurodegenerative disorders, though it remains experimental. Encouraging early outcomes highlight the need for large-scale, standardized and long-term trials to confirm efficacy, optimize protocols and ensure safety. Stem cells may become central to neuroregenerative medicine, but they are not yet ready for routine clinical use.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Jarosław Baran, Aleksandra Drabik, Elżbieta Bebrysz, Ida Dunder, Magdalena Koss, Mateusz Biszewski, Karolina Dębek-Kalinowska, Piotr Bartnik, Jan Palmi, Weronika Ziomek
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