ReviewAutologous mesenchymal stromal cells as a therapeutic in ALS and epilepsy patients: Treatment modalities and ex vivo neural differentiation

Stem cell therapy for incurable central nervous system disorders has long been viewed as a promising therapeutic option. In this review, we discuss the existing data and approaches on cell transplantation in the context of the neural differentiation potential of adult autologous stem cells, focusing on those of mesenchymal origin as easily accessible and well studied. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a heterogeneous cell population with a remarkable therapeutic plasticity, demonstrated by their ability to dampen inflammation, inhibit pathogenic immune responses and secrete neuroprotective factors. To demonstrate and discuss the broad therapeutic potential of MSCs, this review focuses on two examples of neurological conditions: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and epilepsy. We review the lessons from animal models and clinical trials, and consider encouraging newly published clinical data on therapeutic applications of neurally induced MSCs.