Stem Cell Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Emerging Frontiers in Regenerative Medicine

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis represent a growing global health burden with limited therapeutic options. Their progressive course involves oxidative stress, inflammation, protein misfolding, and neuronal loss, and programmed cell death leading to irreversible cognitive and motor decline. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a novel, safe, potential and translational approach offering neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuronal regeneration. Among available cell sources, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) enable patient-specific, immune-compatible treatments, while mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) provide neurotrophic support and modulate neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Recent preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate encouraging outcomes in restoring neuronal function and slowing disease progression. However, challenges remain in ensuring the safety, integration, and long-term viability of transplanted cells. Future strategies integrating stem cell technologies with artificial intelligence and algorithms personalized and regenerative medicine approaches hold promise for translating these discoveries into effective, disease-modifying therapies for NDDs.