Therapeutic potentials of mesenchymal stem cells for cognitive impairment in stroke: Evidence from preclinical studies

Stroke is a debilitating neurological disorder that frequently results in cognitive impairments, significantly affecting the quality of life of post-stroke patients. Current therapeutic options for poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) are limited. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising strategy for enhancing neurological recovery, including cognitive function. This review evaluates the application of MSCs in improving cognitive function in stroke patients, focusing on data from preclinical studies. Approximately 75% of strokes occur in the elderly population, and animal models have been developed to study the effects of MSCs on ischemic stroke in aged rats, as well as in the presence of comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. The potential of MSCs to enhance cognitive function following a stroke is believed to involve multiple mechanisms, including the secretion of trophic factors, immunomodulation, differentiation into neural cell types, promotion of angiogenesis, and replacement of damaged cells. However, several challenges remain to be addressed, including a lack of clear understanding of the biological processes contributing to MSC efficacy, standardization of MSC preparation, and determination of optimal treatment protocols. Further studies on the specific mechanisms of action and clinical application of MSCs are required to confirm their therapeutic efficacy for stroke patients. The development of innovative and targeted therapies for PSCI will ultimately improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.