Equine Musculoskeletal Pathologies: Clinical Approaches and Therapeutical Perspectives-A Review

Musculoskeletal injuries such as equine osteoarthritis, osteoarticular defects, tendonitis/desmitis, and muscular disorders are prevalent among sport horses, with a fair prognosis for returning to exercise or previous performance levels. The field of equine medicine has witnessed rapid and fruitful development, resulting in a diverse range of therapeutic options for musculoskeletal problems. Staying abreast of these advancements can be challenging, prompting the need for a comprehensive review of commonly used and recent treatments. The aim is to compile current therapeutic options for managing these injuries, spanning from simple to complex physiotherapy techniques, conservative treatments including steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hyaluronic acid, polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, pentosan polysulfate, and polyacrylamides, to promising regenerative therapies such as hemoderivatives and stem cell-based therapies. Each therapeutic modality is scrutinized for its benefits, limitations, and potential synergistic actions to facilitate their most effective application for the intended healing/regeneration of the injured tissue/organ and subsequent patient recovery. While stem cell-based therapies have emerged as particularly promising for equine musculoskeletal injuries, a multidisciplinary approach is underscored throughout the discussion, emphasizing the importance of considering various therapeutic modalities in tandem.

Strengthening cardiac therapy pipelines using human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes

Advances in hiPSC isolation and reprogramming and hPSC-CM differentiation have prompted their therapeutic application and utilization for evaluating potential cardiovascular safety liabilities. In this perspective, we showcase key efforts toward the large-scale production of hiPSC-CMs, implementation of hiPSC-CMs in industry settings, and recent clinical applications of this technology. The key observations are a need for traceable gender and ethnically diverse hiPSC lines, approaches to reduce cost of scale-up, accessible clinical trial datasets, and transparent guidelines surrounding the safety and efficacy of hiPSC-based therapies.

Pre-clinical Aspects and Contemporary Treatments of Parkinson's Disease

BACKGROUND

After Alzheimer's disease, the second slot for the most common neurodegenerative disease, is occupied by Parkinson's disease. The symptoms of Parkinson's are classified as motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms. Motor symptoms involve rigidity, tremors, bradykinesia, and postural instability. Non-motor symptoms consist of cognitive dysfunction, salivation, lacrimation, etc. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to find out the most recent treatment options for Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

Research and review papers are collected from different databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Mendeley, Scopus, Science Open, and the Directory of Open Access Journals using different keywords such as "Parkinson's disease, biomarkers, animal models".

RESULTS

Currently, various novel therapeutics have been emerging for PD. These may include treatments that may control the symptoms without causing any other severe side effects with already available treatments. Better therapies such as gene therapies, cell-based treatments, and regenerative therapies, which may evolve over time, can be a better therapeutic option.

CONCLUSION

There is a need for the development of novel and potential therapeutic strategies that offer fewer side effects to patients. Several clinical, biochemical, and imaging markers that are noteworthy in Parkinson's disease examination have been discussed here. Current work in the field of Parkinson's disease has developed a variety of significant small animal models, such as viral vector models and seeding models, including the insertion of preformed fibrils of alpha-synuclein. The brief concepts regarding risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical diagnosis, and emerging treatments of PD are discussed in this review article.

Platelet- Rich Plasma Treatment Supported by Ultrasound Detection of Septa in Recurrent Canine Aural Hematoma: A Case Series

Aural hematoma is a common pathological condition in veterinary practice with a high incidence rate in dogs. Drainage, corticosteroid injections, and surgical approaches represent the common treatments in these clinical cases. However, surgery leaves visible signs and is usually correlated with recurrence, scars, and deformation of the treated pinna. For this reason, more effective and less invasive methods have been proposed over the years. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is one of the most promising options due to its pro-regenerative properties and capability to modulate the inflammatory state. The present work reports 12 cases of canine aural hematoma treated with PRP. The PRP treatment was combined with an ultrasound evaluation of the pinna to detect and treat all involved septa. The results show that relatively large volumes (2 mL) of PRP associated with an ultrasound guide are safe and efficacious in the treatment of canine aural hematoma requiring a maximum of two infiltrations, both in acute and chronic conditions. All the patients recovered their normal ear thickness (compared with the controlateral one) without relapses, averaging 38.5 days from their first treatment (10-90 days; SD: 24.7). The key role of PRP combined with a tailored diagnosis process carried out by the veterinarian, which included using an ultrasound system and the proper bandage, suggests that this approach may represent a valid alternative to surgery and corticosteroids.

Epidemiology and Trends in Cartilage Surgery of the Foot and Ankle in Germany: An Analysis of National Healthcare Billing and Reporting Data from 2006 to 2020

Background and objectives: Cartilage surgery constitutes a standard intervention in foot and ankle procedures. Currently, there is a lack of epidemiological data on its frequency, age distribution, and surgical options for cartilage surgery. This study aimed to investigate the current landscape of cartilage surgery in Germany and identify the most common procedures from an epidemiological standpoint. Materials and methods: Medical billing and reporting data from the Federal Statistical Office of Germany, encompassing the period 2006-2020, was examined, including all foot and ankle cartilage surgical procedures (summarized under OPS codes 5-812 and 5-801). The dataset incorporated information on the affected joint, patient age and sex, and surgery type. Each surgical procedure was categorized as "debridement", "regeneration" or "refixation". Linear and nonlinear regression analyses were employed, with a statistical significance threshold of 0.05. Results: From the total of 136,501 procedures conducted during the study period, the most frequently performed interventions were microfracture (58,252) and chondroplasty (56,135), and thus, debridement procedures were in the leading position. The use of acellular membranes was the most used regenerative technique (n = 11,414). At the ankle joint, interventions were mostly arthroscopic and in men, while foot cartilage surgeries were preferably performed via open surgery and mostly in women. Age distribution analysis revealed two primary peaks: the first in the 20-25-year-old group (ankle and foot) and the second in the 45-50-year-old group (ankle) and 55-60-year-old group (foot). Refixation and regenerative procedures were more frequent among younger individuals, while debriding procedures were more frequent among older individuals. Regenerative procedures, particularly in the ankle, significantly increased over time. Conclusions: Cartilage surgery of the foot and ankle was common, with two primary age groups predominantly affected. Notably, recent years have witnessed a considerable rise in cartilage regenerative procedures.

How can clinical safety and efficacy concerns in stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury be overcome?

INTRODUCTION

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to severe neurological dysfunction. Despite scientific and medical advances, clinically effective regenerative therapies including stem cells are lacking for SCI.

AREAS COVERED

This paper discusses translational challenges related to the safe, effective use of stem cells for SCI, with a focus on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), Schwann cells (SCs), olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We discuss approaches to enhance the efficacy of cell-based strategies by i) addressing patient heterogeneity and enhancing patient selection; ii) selecting cell type, cell source, cell developmental stage, and delivery technique; iii) enhancing graft integration and mitigating immune-mediated graft rejection; and iv) ensuring availability of cells. Additionally, we review strategies to optimize outcomes including combinatorial use of rehabilitation and discuss ways to mitigate potential risks of tumor formation associated with stem cell-based strategies.

EXPERT OPINION

Basic science research will drive translational advances to develop stem cell-based therapies for SCI. Genetic, serological, and imaging biomarkers may enable individualization of cell-based treatments. Moreover, combinatorial strategies will be required to enhance graft survival, migration and functional integration, to enable precision-based intervention.

Donor variability of ovine bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cell - implications for cell therapy

It is assumed that all species, including sheep, demonstrate significant variation between individuals including the characteristics of their bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). These differences may account for limited success in pre-clinical animal studies and may also impact on treatment strategies that are used within regenerative medicine. This study investigates variations between ovine MSCs (oMSCs) isolated from 13 English Mule sheep donors by studying cell viability, expansion, the cells' trilineage differentiation potential and the expression of cell surface markers. In addition to the primary objective, this article also compares various differentiation media used for the trilineage differentiation of oMSCs. In this study, a clear individual variation between the sheep donors regarding oMSCs characterization, tri-lineage differentiation potential and marker expression was effectively demonstrated. The results set out to systematically explore the ovine mesenchymal stem cell population derived from multiple donors. With this information, it is possible to start addressing the issues of personalized approaches to regenerative therapies.

Regenerative medicine for osteonecrosis of the femoral head : present and future

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(1):5-8.

Development of Cell Therapies for Renal Disease and Regenerative Medicine

The incidence of renal disease is gradually increasing worldwide, and this condition has become a major public health problem because it is a trigger for many other chronic diseases. Cell therapies using multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells, hematopoietic stem cells, macrophages, and other cell types have been used to induce regeneration and provide a cure for acute and chronic kidney disease in experimental models. This review describes the advances in cell therapy protocols applied to acute and chronic kidney injuries and the attempts to apply these treatments in a clinical setting.

Regrow or Repair: An Update on Potential Regenerative Therapies for the Kidney

Fifteen years ago, this journal published a review outlining future options for regenerating the kidney. At that time, stem cell populations were being identified in multiple tissues, the concept of stem cell recruitment to a site of injury was of great interest, and the possibility of postnatal renal stem cells was growing in momentum. Since that time, we have seen the advent of human induced pluripotent stem cells, substantial advances in our capacity to both sequence and edit the genome, global and spatial transcriptional analysis down to the single-cell level, and a pandemic that has challenged our delivery of health care to all. This article will look back over this period of time to see how our view of kidney development, disease, repair, and regeneration has changed and envision a future for kidney regeneration and repair over the next 15 years.

Auxeticity in biosystems: an exemplification of its effects on the mechanobiology of heterogeneous living cells

Auxeticity (negative Poisson's ratio) is the unique mechanical property found in an extensive variety of materials, such as metals, graphene, composites, polymers, foams, fibers, ceramics, zeolites, silicates and biological tissues. The enhanced mechanical features of the auxetic materials have motivated scientists to design, engineer and manufacture man-made auxetic materials to fully leverage their capabilities in different fields of research applications, including aeronautics, medical, protective equipments, smart sensors, filter cleaning, and so on. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation is one of the most widely used methods for characterizing the mechanical properties and response of the living cells. In this contribution, we highlight main consequences of auxeticity for biosystems and provide a representative example to quantify the effect of nucleus auxeticity on the force response of the embryonic stem cells. A parametric study has been conducted on a heterogeneous stem cell to evaluate the effect of nucleus diameter, nucleus elasticity, indenter's shape and location on the force-indentation curve. The developed model has also been validated with the recently reported experimental studies available in the literature. Our results suggest that the nucleus auxeticity plays a profound role in cell mechanics especially for large size nucleus. We also report the mechanical stresses induced within the hyperelastic cell model under different loading conditions that would be quite useful in decoding the interrelations between mechanical stimuli and cellular behavior of auxetic biosystems. Finally, current and potential areas of applications of our findings for regenerative therapies, tissue engineering, 3 D/4D bioprinting, and the development of meta-biomaterials are discussed.

Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: The Role and Evidence for Non-Stem-Cell-Based Regenerative Therapies

The use of non-stem-cell-based regenerative medicine therapies for lumbar discogenic pain is an area of growing interest. Although the intervertebral disc is a largely avascular structure, cells located within the nucleus pulposus as well as annulus fibrosis could be targeted for regenerative and restorative treatments. Degenerative disc disease is caused by an imbalance of catabolic and anabolic events within the nucleus pulposus. As catabolic processes overwhelm the environment within the nucleus pulposus, proinflammatory cytokines increase in concentration and lead to further disc degeneration. Non-stem-cell-based therapies, which include growth factor therapy and other proteins, can lead to an increased production of collagen and proteoglycans within the disc.

Clinical applications of dental stem cells in modern regenerative medicine: A systematic review with updates

The use of dental stem cells (DSCs) has emerged as a promising new approach for therapeutic purposes to treat dental and non-dental diseases. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to compile all current information on the role and clinical applications of DSCs in modern regenerative medical therapy. PubMed and Google Scholar electronic databases were used to search the literature for relevant studies after applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The search included articles that were published from 2009 to 2019. Several keywords were combined for the search: (1) "Clinical applications", (2) "Dental Stem Cell", and (3) "Medicine". Only the 17 studies that fulfilled both the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this systematic review. These studies investigated different aspects of DSCs, including cell types, clinical applications, and updates of their use in regenerative medicine. All 17 studies favored the use of different DSCS in regenerative medicine to treat diseases, such as bone defects, neural and skin injuries, Parkinson's disease, ischemia, and others. None of the studies were conducted on humans. This systematic review demonstrated the growing body of evidence supporting the role of DSCs in the field of modern generative medicine. The noninvasive methods of isolating these cells compared to those for isolating non-DSCs make them promising potential sources for the treatment of chronic and devastating diseases. However, more studies are needed to develop the proper guidelines for cases in which DSCs could be considered an accurate and reliable tool for modern regenerative medicine in clinical trials.

The influence of sodium citrate on the characteristics and biological activity of plasma rich in growth factors

Aim: This study investigated the effect of sodium citrate on the properties and biological activity of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF). Methods: PRGF was obtained from trisodium citrate and plain extraction tubes. Hematological parameters, growth factors' release kinetics from both PRGF clots and their releasates' biological effect on human bone cells were evaluated. Results: The platelet enrichment factor, the growth factors' content and the release kinetic of PRGF were similar for both groups. The proliferation, collagen type I synthesis and tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase activity of human osteoblasts showed no statistically significant differences. Conclusion: The use of sodium citrate does not influence the composition, the growth factors' release kinetics or the biological effect of PRGF, but it increases its clinical versatility.

Applying hiPSCs and Biomaterials Towards an Understanding and Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of disability and mortality in children and young adults and has a profound impact on the socio-economic wellbeing of patients and their families. Initially, brain damage is caused by mechanical stress-induced axonal injury and vascular dysfunction, which can include hemorrhage, blood-brain barrier disruption, and ischemia. Subsequent neuronal degeneration, chronic inflammation, demyelination, oxidative stress, and the spread of excitotoxicity can further aggravate disease pathology. Thus, TBI treatment requires prompt intervention to protect against neuronal and vascular degeneration. Rapid advances in the field of stem cells (SCs) have revolutionized the prospect of repairing brain function following TBI. However, more than that, SCs can contribute substantially to our knowledge of this multifaced pathology. Research, based on human induced pluripotent SCs (hiPSCs) can help decode the molecular pathways of degeneration and recovery of neuronal and glial function, which makes these cells valuable tools for drug screening. Additionally, experimental approaches that include hiPSC-derived engineered tissues (brain organoids and bio-printed constructs) and biomaterials represent a step forward for the field of regenerative medicine since they provide a more suitable microenvironment that enhances cell survival and grafting success. In this review, we highlight the important role of hiPSCs in better understanding the molecular pathways of TBI-related pathology and in developing novel therapeutic approaches, building on where we are at present. We summarize some of the most relevant findings for regenerative therapies using biomaterials and outline key challenges for TBI treatments that remain to be addressed.

Distinctive Cellular Transcriptomic Signature and MicroRNA Cargo of Extracellular Vesicles of Horse Adipose and Endometrial Mesenchymal Stem Cells from the Same Donors

Equine endometrial and adipose mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs and aMSCs, respectively) were isolated from the same donors of thoroughbred mares. The cells displayed characteristic features of MSCs, including trilineage mesodermal and also neurogenic differentiation. We evaluated the influence of cellular origin on their transcriptome profile. Cellular RNA was isolated and sequenced and extracellular vesicles (EVs) were obtained from conditioned medium of cells cultured in medium depleted of EVs, and their microRNA (miRNA) cargo analyzed by sequencing. Differential expression of mRNAs and EV-miRNA was analyzed, as well as pathways and processes most represented in each cell origin. mRNA reads from all expressed genes clustered according to the cellular origin. A total of 125 up- and 51 downregulated genes were identified and 31 differentially expressed miRNAs. Based on mRNA sequencing, endometrial MSCs strongly upregulated genes involved in the Hippo, transforming growth factor beta, and pluripotency signaling pathways. Alongside with this, pathways involved in extracellular matrix reorganization were the most represented in the miRNA cargo of EVs secreted by eMSCs. The niche from which MSCs originated defined the transcriptomic signature of the cells, including the secretion of lineage-specific loaded EV to ensure proper communication and homeostasis. Identification and testing their biological functions can provide new tools for the therapeutic use of horse MSC.

New Horizons: Novel Adrenal Regenerative Therapies

Adrenal insufficiency requires lifelong corticoid replacement therapies. However, current therapies are not able to replace the physiological circadian pattern of the adrenal cortex and are associated with many metabolic, vascular, neuroendocrine, and mental perturbations. Therefore, regenerative and more curative strategies would be desirable. In the current perspective, we describe emerging new regenerative therapies for the treatment of adrenal insufficiency. In particular, we discuss gene therapy and cell replacement strategies. Furthermore, we discuss how adrenal cells might be used as a source for regenerative therapies of nonadrenal neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson disease.

Restoring the regenerative balance in neuromuscular disorders: satellite cell activation as therapeutic target in Pompe disease

Skeletal muscle is capable of efficiently regenerating after damage in a process mediated by tissue-resident stem cells called satellite cells. This regenerative potential is often compromised under muscle-degenerative conditions. Consequently, the damage produced during degeneration is not efficiently repaired and the balance between repair and damage is lost. Here we review recent progress on the role of satellite cell-mediated repair in neuromuscular disorders with a focus on Pompe disease, an inherited metabolic myopathy caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme acid alpha glucosidase (GAA). Studies performed in patient biopsies as well as in Pompe disease mouse models demonstrate that muscle regeneration activity is compromised despite progressing muscle damage. We describe disease-specific mechanisms of satellite cell dysfunction to highlight the differences between Pompe disease and muscle dystrophies. The mechanisms involved provide possible targets for therapy, such as modulation of autophagy, muscle exercise, and pharmacological modulation of satellite cell activation. Most of these approaches are still experimental, although promising in animal models, still warrant caution with respect to their safety and efficiency profile.

Emerging Treatment Approaches for Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, manifesting as a characteristic movement disorder with a number of additional non-motor features. The pathological hallmark of PD is the presence of intra-neuronal aggregates of α-synuclein (Lewy bodies). The movement disorder of PD occurs largely due to loss of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra, resulting in striatal dopamine depletion. There are currently no proven disease modifying treatments for PD, with management options consisting mainly of dopaminergic drugs, and in a limited number of patients, deep brain stimulation. Long-term use of established dopaminergic therapies for PD results in significant adverse effects, and there is therefore a requirement to develop better means of restoring striatal dopamine, as well as treatments that are able to slow progression of the disease. A number of exciting treatments have yielded promising results in pre-clinical and early clinical trials, and it now seems likely that the landscape for the management of PD will change dramatically in the short to medium term future. Here, we discuss the promising regenerative cell-based and gene therapies, designed to treat the dopaminergic aspects of PD whilst limiting adverse effects, as well as novel approaches to reducing α-synuclein pathology.

Identification and Multilineage Potential Research of a Novel Type of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Goose Inguinal Groove

Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) play a crucial role in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue repair for its own unique features. However, up to date, the isolation and characterizations of multidifferentiation potentials of goose ADSCs are still uncertain. In this study, we successfully isolated ADSCs from goose inguinal groove in vitro for the first time and also attempted to unravel its fundamental differentiation potentials and genetic characteristics. The results showed that isolated ADSCs exhibited a typical fibroblast-like morphology and high proliferative potential, could be passaged for at least 40 passages and maintained high hereditary stability with more than 92.2% of cells were diploid (2n = 78) by G-banding analysis. Moreover, the ADSCs could express pluripotent marker gene (OCT4) and mesenchymal stem cells-related surface antigens, which are similar to previously reported human ADSCs. Additionally, the goose ADSCs could be induced to transdifferentiate into cells of three layers in vitro, such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes derived from mesoderm, neurocytes from ectoderm, and hepatocytes of the endoderm. Most of all, we confirmed that the induced β-like cells and hepatocytes had metabolic functions similar to normal cells in vivo. Taken together, these results demonstrated the multidifferentiation potentials of ADSCs in vitro, which conferred an appealing candidate for cell regenerative therapy.

Exploring the interplay between autoimmunity and cancer to find the target therapeutic hotspots

Autoimmunity arises when highly active immune responses are developed against the tissues or substances of one's own body. It is one of the most prevalent disorders among the old-age population with prospects increasing with age. The major cause of autoimmunity and associated diseases is the dysregulation of host immune surveillance. Impaired repairment of immune system and apoptosis regulation can be seen as major landmarks in autoimmune disorders such as the mutation of p53 gene which results in rheumatoid arthritis, bowel disease which consequently lead to tissue destruction, inflammation and dysfunctioning of body organs. Cytokines mediated apoptosis and proliferation of cells plays a regulatory role in cell cycle and further in cancer development. Anti-TNF therapy, Treg therapy and stem cell therapy have been used for autoimmune diseases, however, with the increase in the use of immunomodulatory therapies and their development for autoimmune diseases and cancer, the understanding of human immune system tends to become an increasing requirement. Hence, the findings associated with the relationship between autoimmune diseases and cancer may prove to be beneficial for the improvement in the health of suffering patients. Here in, we are eliciting the underlying mechanisms which result in autoimmune disorders causing the onset of cancer, exploration of interactome to find the pathways which are mutual to both, and recognition of hotspots which might play important role in autoimmunity mediated therapeutics with different therapies such as anti-TNF therapy, Treg therapy and stem cell therapy.

Isolation and biological characterization of a novel type of pulmonary mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wuzhishan miniature pig embryo

Pulmonary mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) have great potential in lung tissue engineering and represent attractive candidates for disease treatment in human and veterinary research. However, a reliable method for isolation and localization of porcine PMSCs in situ is still uncertain. In this study, we successfully isolated PMSCs from Wuzhishan miniature pig embryos in vitro and also attempted to unravel its fundamental differentiation potential and biological characteristics. The isolated PMSCs, which could be cultured and passaged for at least 15 passages, exhibited a typical fibroblast-like morphology and high proliferative potential. Moreover, the PMSCs could express pluripotent marker genes (Oct4 and Nanog) and MSCs-related surface antigens (β-integrin, CD44, CD71, CD73, CD90, and CD105), while the expressions of CD34 and CD45 were negative. Cell cycle examination showed that the rate of G0/G1 was about 72.1-90.2%. Additionally, the PMSCs not only could be induced to transdifferentiate into mesoblastic cells such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes in vitro, but also the neural ectoderm and endoderm. Together, these data demonstrate the multiple differentiations potential of PMSCs in vitro, which confers potential use in serving as desirable cell types for lung injury regeneration.

Advanced Strategies for End-Stage Heart Failure: Combining Regenerative Approaches with LVAD, a New Horizon?

Despite the improved treatment of cardiovascular diseases, the population with end-stage heart failure (HF) is progressively growing. The scarcity of the gold standard therapy, heart transplantation, demands novel therapeutic approaches. For patients awaiting transplantation, ventricular-assist devices have been of great benefit on survival. To allow explantation of the assist device and obviate heart transplantation, sufficient and durable myocardial recovery is necessary. However, explant rates so far are low. Combining mechanical circulatory support with regenerative therapies such as cell (-based) therapy and biomaterials might give rise to improved long-term results. Although synergistic effects are suggested with mechanical support and stem cell therapy, evidence in both preclinical and clinical setting is lacking. This review focuses on advanced and innovative strategies for the treatment of end-stage HF and furthermore appraises clinical experience with combined strategies.

Age-related cognitive decline: can neural stem cells help us?

Several studies suggest that an increase in adult neurogenesis has beneficial effects on emotional behavior and cognitive performance including learning and memory. The observation that aging has a negative effect on the proliferation of neural stem cells has prompted several laboratories to investigate new systems to artificially increase neurogenesis in senescent animals as a means to compensate for age-related cognitive decline. In this review we will discuss the systemic, cellular, and molecular changes induced by aging and affecting the neurogenic niche at the level of neural stem cell proliferation, their fate change, neuronal survival, and subsequent integration in the neuronal circuitry. Particular attention will be given to those manipulations that increase neurogenesis in the aged brain as a potential avenue towards therapy.