Mesenchymal stem cells as therapeutic agents and potential targeted gene delivery vehicle for brain diseases.

Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the injured brain may provide therapeutic benefits. Several models of brain diseases have been examined, including that of ischemic stroke, neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumors. MSCs transplanted into the brain have been demonstrated to promote functional recovery by producing trophic factors that induce survival and regeneration of host neurons. Therapies will capitalize on the innate trophic support from MSCs or on augmented growth factor support, using genetically engineered MSCs as the delivery vehicles. Genetically engineered and surface modified methods are supposed to enhance the migration of MSCs toward brain lesions. The current data in support of applying MSC-based cellular therapies to the treatment of brain disorders are discussed.