Biologic Transplantation and Neurotrophin-Induced Neuroplasticity After Traumatic Brain Injury

OBJECTIVE: In this review, we analyze progress in the treatment of traumatic brain injury with neurotrophins, growth factors and cell and tissue neurotransplantation. The primary objective of these therapies is to reduce neurologic deficits associated with the trauma by inducing neuroplasticity. These therapies are restorative and not necessarily neuroprotective. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: An extensive literature on administration of neurotrophics factors and cell and tissue cerebral transplantation is reviewed. The effects of these therapeutic approaches on brain biochemical, molecular, cellular, and tissue responses are summarized. CONCLUSION: The cumulative data indicate that cell therapy shows substantial promise in the treatment of neural injury.