[Stem cell therapy for dementia].

Intravenously administrated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated and expanded from human bone marrow have been reported to ameliorate functional deficits in several CNS diseases in both experimental animal models and clinics. Therapeutic mechanisms may include replacement of damaged cells, neuroprotective effects, induction of axonal sprouting, and neovascularization. Here, we review the reparative and protective properties of transplanted MSCs in stroke, describe initial clinical studies on intravenous MSC delivery in stroke patients, and discuss a perspective on the prospects of MSCs for dementia.