Neural Stem Cell Intervention in Traumatic Brain Injury

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI)Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. The secondary brain damage post-TBI encompasses oxidative stressOxidative stress, metabolic changes, necrosis, excitotoxicity, and neuroinflammation. These processes further intensify the neural injury induced by TBI. Several treatment strategies that are aimed at different TBI features have been proposed and tested in clinical trials. Yet no approved effective drug has been identified for TBI treatment. Failure of conventional drug interventions suggests a need for research on novel stem cellStem cell-based therapies to treat TBI. Methods: Citing the most up-to-date literature, we used the MEDLINE/PubMed database for review articles, research papers, books, systematic reviews, and case studies and the ClincalTrials.gov database for human clinical studies; both provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Results: Neural stem cellNeural stem cell (NSC)-based neurotherapyNeurotherapy is used in numerous diseases to promote functional recovery and tissue reconstruction. This chapter will discuss treatment options by both endogenous NSCs and exogenous stem cellsStem cell. Preclinical TBI therapeutic strategies have demonstrated limited translational success so far. Moreover, they have led to the combination of multiple therapeutic approaches among researchers. Additionally, we will discuss treatment strategies with the use of drugs showing beneficial effects, and those that may have synergistic effects when used in combination with other complementary strategies. Conclusions: The success of this approach for other medical conditions presents another driving force for exploring combination TBI therapies. It is expected that many cell-based innovations and translational applications will continue to manifest in the future.