Stem Cell Therapy Shows Promise in Restoring Brain Function After Stroke
new research from the University of Zurich (UZH) demonstrates that transplanting neural stem cells into the brains of mice experiencing stroke can lead to meaningful functional recovery and evidence of brain regeneration.The findings, published in Nature Communications, suggest a potential pathway towards effective stroke treatment in humans.
Researchers induced stroke in mice, mimicking the condition as it manifests in humans, and genetically modified the animals to accept human stem cells. One week post-stroke,they transplanted neural stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) – created from normal human somatic cells – into the damaged brain region.
Over a five-week observation period, the team utilized imaging and biochemical analyses to track the stem cells’ progress. They discovered the cells survived and largely differentiated into functional neurons, successfully integrating and communicating with existing brain cells. Importantly, the transplantation also triggered regenerative processes, including the formation of new blood vessels, a reduction in inflammation, and improved integrity of the blood-brain barrier.
The therapy demonstrably reversed motor impairments caused by the stroke, as confirmed by AI-assisted analysis of the mice’s gait. A key finding was that delaying stem cell transplantation by one week after the stroke actually yielded better results, potentially simplifying therapy preparation in a clinical setting.
The research team proactively addressed potential hurdles for human request. The stem cells were manufactured without animal-derived reagents, utilizing a protocol developed in collaboration with the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University.
While acknowledging the encouraging results, lead researcher tackenberg emphasizes the need for further development.Current efforts focus on creating a “safety switch” to prevent uncontrolled stem cell growth and exploring endovascular injection – a less invasive delivery method than direct brain grafting. Clinical trials utilizing iPSC-derived cells are already underway in Japan for Parkinson’s disease,and Tackenberg believes stroke could be a future target for similar clinical inquiry.
Source: University of Zurich (UZH). “Stroke: Stem cell therapy restores brain function.” news.uzh.ch, https://www.news.uzh.ch/en/articles/media/2025/stroke.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
Journal Reference: Weber, R. Z.,et al. (2025). Neural xenografts contribute to long-term recovery in stroke via molecular graft-host crosstalk. nature Communications. doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-63725-3.
