A new study has found that stem cells can be safely infused into the brain to promote stroke recovery.  Researchers from the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine undertook a year-long study that followed the progress of 48 stroke patients.  A number of the patients had bone marrow stem cells injected into the brain via the carotid artery, to help them recover after having a stroke.

Researchers said determining that the procedure was safe was high on their list of priorities.  When stem cells are injected into the brain, they do take up some space and may decrease the flow of blood to the brain.  Researchers spent 6 years finding ways to prevent stem cells from impeding the blood vessels in the brain and reduce the risk of clotting.  The study demonstrated that it is safe to use stem cells for stroke recovery without significant risk.

The research team took bone the marrow from the subjects and extracted the stem cells.  29 of the 48 patients were injected with the processed stem cells, the remainder were given a placebo.  On average, the treatments occurred within 15 days of the patient having their stroke.

The stem cells act as “drug factories” in the brain, secreting various substances useful for recovering from a stroke and helping to repair damaged cells.  The stem cells also help reduce inflammation in the brain after a stroke.

The next step is a larger study which will also incorporate bone marrow stem cells from healthy people.  It is believed that the stem cells from young and healthy people may have a greater regenerative capability.  This study is an important step forward for developing new stem cell treatments that can repair damage to the brain.

Source: Stem cells can be safely infused in brain to promote stroke recovery, study finds

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