Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Stroke Recovery?

A small trial, underpowered to show a benefit, demonstrates safety and hints at possible efficacy.

Application of stem cells in the subacute or chronic phase of stroke has attracted attention as a new option to augment recovery. In animal models, stem cells have been reported to have positive effects on trophic factors and angiogenesis.

These investigators conducted a small randomized trial involving autologous mesenchymal stem cells harvested from patients within 7 days of randomization. Patients were in the post-acute phase after severe middle cerebral artery territory stroke (median days after onset, 20.2; baseline modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score, 4.4. The 54 patients (mean age, 64 years; 50% women) were randomized 2:1 to treatment or control. The primary outcome was shift in the mRS at 3 months. Motor function, assessed with a varie…

Reviewing Author

Seemant Chaturvedi, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardBayer Pharmaceuticals; Novartis

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Editorial BoardsNeurology; Stroke

Seemant Chaturvedi, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardBayer Pharmaceuticals; Novartis

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Editorial BoardsNeurology; Stroke

Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Stroke Recovery?

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Reviewing Author