Cell-based transplantation strategies to promote plasticity following spinal cord injury

► This review covers cell therapy to enhance neuroplasticity after spinal cord injury. ► Plasticity occurs through axonal regeneration, synaptogenesis and tissue sparing. ► Cells can act to replace damaged glia and to enhance trophism. ► Several cell types increase neuroplasticity when transplanted in animal models. ► Combination therapy (multiple cell types or agents) shows greater functional efficacy.