Induced pluripotent stem cells for peripheral nerve regeneration

J Stem Cells. 2011;6(1):39-49.

Abstract

Since their discovery in 2006, induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have swept the scientific world with excitement and possibilities. There have been many efforts to create them and differentiate them along desired pathways, but the field that may benefit the most from therapeutic iPS cells is neurology. Since stem cells are scarce in the nervous system, most damage due to injury or disease is permanent. If iPS cells could be differentiated into the appropriate nervous system cells, they could provide a way to treat nervous system damage through cell replacement therapy. In this review, we will discuss the possibilities of iPS cells and their use in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Humans
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells / transplantation*
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology*
  • Peripheral Nerve Injuries / prevention & control*