Mesenchymal stem cells have the ability to transdifferentiate into neurons and therefore one of the potential adult stem cell source for neuronal tissue regeneration applications and understanding neurodevelopmental processes

Cell therapy based on neurocytes transplantation is a promising tool for the treatment of nervous system diseases. However, there are still many issues and controversies associated with the derivation and therapeutic application of these cells.

Neurons from both primary hMSCs and hMSC cell line displayed spontaneous activity (�75%) as demonstrated by Ca++ imaging. Further- more, when electrically stimulated, hMSC derived neurons (hMd-Neurons) matched the response of a typical neuron in the process of maturation.

Uses of Neurocytes in Different Diseases:

1. Parkinson’s disease
2. Multiple sclerosis (MS)
3. Alzheimer’s disease
4. Stroke
5. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

How Stem Cell Therapy Works for Neurological Disorders

Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising avenue for treating neurological disorders. Although the exact mechanisms may vary depending on the specific disease, several standard processes have been identified through peer-reviewed studies that contribute to the therapeutic effects of stem cells in neurological conditions. Some of functions of transplanted cells include:

1. Neuroprotection: Stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have been shown to provide neuroprotection by secreting neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), which promote neuronal survival and reduce apoptosis (Lu et al., 2005).
2. Immunomodulation: Stem cells, particularly MSCs, have demonstrated immunomodulatory properties by suppressing the activation of pro-inflammatory immune cells, such as T cells and macrophages, and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) (Uccelli et al., 2008).
3. Angiogenesis: Stem cells, particularly MSCs, have been shown to promote the formation of new blood vessels by secreting pro-angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (Kinnaird et al., 2004). This process improves blood flow, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to the injured tissue, promoting healing.
4. Differentiation into neural cells: Stem cells, particularly neural stem cells (NSCs), can differentiate into various neural cell types, such as neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes (Gage, 2000). This ability allows stem cells to directly contribute to repairing and regenerating the damaged nervous tissue by replacing lost or damaged cells.
5. Modulation of glial scar formation: Glial scar formation can inhibit nerve regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS) following injury. Stem cells, particularly MSCs, have been shown to modulate glial scar formation by reducing the proliferation of astrocytes and promoting the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which help break down the scar tissue. This modulation may facilitate nerve regeneration by removing physical barriers to nerve growth.