Affiliations: Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Southern
Central University, Changsha, P.R. China | Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia,
Augusta, GA, USA | Department of Internal Medicine, Dwight D. Eisenhower
Army Medical Center, Fort Gordon, GA, USA
Note: [] Corresponding authors: Guolong Yu, M.D., PhD., Vice Chairman and
Professor, Department of Cardiology, Xiangya Hospital, Southern Central
University, Changsha, 410008, P.R. China. Tel.: +86 731 432 7250; Fax: +86 731
432 7332; E-mail: yuguolong123@yahoo.com.cn
Abstract: Purpose: This review paper summarizes relevant studies, discusses
potential mechanisms of transplanted cell-mediated neuroprotection, and builds
a case for the need to establish outcome parameters that are critical for
transplantation success. In particular, we outline the advantages and
disadvantages of systemic delivery of human umbilical cord blood (HUCB) cells
in the field of cellular transplantation for treating ischemic stroke. Methods: A MEDLINE/PubMed systematic search of published
articles in peer-reviewed journals over the last 25 years was performed
focusing on the theme of HUCB as donor graft source for transplantation therapy
in neurological disorders with emphasis on stroke. Results: Ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of human
death and disability. Although stroke survivors may gain spontaneous partial
functional recovery, they often suffer from sensory-motor dysfunction,
behavioral/neurological alterations, and various degrees of paralysis.
Currently, limited clinical intervention is available to prevent ischemic
damage and restore lost function in stroke victims. Stem cells from fetal
tissues, bone marrow, and HUCB has emerged in the last few years as a potential
cell transplant cell source for ischemic stroke, because of their capability to
differentiate into multiple cell types and the possibility that they may
provide trophic support for cell survival, tissue repair, and functional
recovery. Conclusion: A growing number of studies highlight the
potential of systemic delivery of HUCB cells as a novel therapeutic approach
for stroke. However, additional preclinical studies are warranted to reveal the
optimal HUCB transplant regimen that is safe and efficacious prior to
proceeding to large-scale clinical application of these cells for stroke
therapy.
