Narrative review on stem cells shows therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting biological therapy implications and experimental validation.
Background: Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington’s Disease (HD) are set apart by progressive neuronal loss and concomitant functional decline. Traditional therapies are equipped with only symptomatic relief, devoid of neurorestorative properties. Stem-cell based therapies have the potential to revolutionize neurological care by replenishing lost cells, mitigating inflammation, and fostering a neuroprotective environment. Objectives: This narrative review aims to appraise the treatment potential of various stem cell types in managing neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting their functional pathways, delivery methods, and current experimental validation. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out based on data retrieved from PubMed, The Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Thirty-one studies that fulfil PICO criteria and only English-language publications are incorporated in this review. No part of the study design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation was conducted using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Results: Stem cells, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and neural stem cells (NSCs), possess distinctive regenerative properties. MSC-derived exosomes can traverse the blood-brain barrier and improve nerve cell longevity. Administration routes such as intravenous, intranasal, and direct brain transplantation are being studied. Neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis have been widely studied for therapeutic benefits. Conclusion: Regardless of their potential, stem cell therapies raise health risks, including neoplastic growth and immunological incompatibility, alongside bioethical issues. Developments in genetic modification, nanotechnology, and preconditioning strategies are being analyzed to optimize outcomes. Long-term research, harmonization of protocols, and extended patient follow-up are essential for the safe and effective development of medical applications.
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Patel et al. (2025) studied this question.
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