Stem cells in stroke--appraisal of literature.

The repair of human brain after stroke appears unrealistic as there is loss of many different neurons and glial cells. The functional improvement after stroke or neurorestorative process includes neurogenesis, angiogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Stem cell therapy has the potential in inducing all of the above neurorestorative processes--thus facilitating functional recovery. The replacement therapy includes stem cells derived from various tissues which can generate functional neurons and glia. Stem cell research is an exciting new avenue in the field of stroke management.