Neural Stem Cells : All You Need to Know

1
(No Transcript)
2
What are Neural Stem Cells?

• Neural stem cells are undifferentiated,
  self-renewing and multipotent cells. They have
  the ability to differentiate into neuronal
  neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. They
  are found in abundance throughout the central
  nervous system (CNS).
• Neural stem cell transplantation can help repair
  and replenish damaged oligodendrocytes, as well
  as other brain tissue.

3
Why are Oligodendrocytes important?

• Oligodendrocytes produce brain tissue (myelin)
  and have the ability to self-renew.
• They play an integral role in neuronal
  communication (relaying of messages) through a
  process known as myelination.
• If oligodendrocytes sustain any kind of injury or
  damage, it can lead to a potentially
  life-threatening situation. Demyelination, a
  result of this damage, can cause motor and
  cognitive impairment.

4
Types of Neural Stem Cells

• There are two types of neural stem cells found in
  the CNS. They are
• Neural Tube Epithelial Cells
• Neural Precursor Cells

5
Neural Tube Epithelial Cells (NTECs)

• The neural tube gives rise to the brain and
  spinal cord.
• NTECs line the neural tube during embryonic
  development. They play a vital role in the
  healthy functioning of the nervous system. They
  exist only in the embryonic stage, and
  generate/make way for two types of neurons
• Radial glial neurons These can simultaneously
  produce glial cells and/or neuronal precursor
  cells. The primary function of these neurons is
  to complete the basic nervous tissue in the
  nucleus and cortex of the brain, a part of
  childhood development.
• Neuroblasts These are the main neural stem cells
  in the adult body. They can divide and produce
  neural precursor cells, glial cells, and neurons.

6
Neural Precursor Cells (NPCs)

• These are typically a mixed population of neural
  stem cells and progenitor cells.
• They are undifferentiated cells.
• NPCs are found in both embryonic and adult
  brains, and can differentiate into neurons,
  astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. They help in
  the process of neurogenesis (formation and repair
  of neural tissues).
• NPCs are important for brain development, and
  cognitive function.
• They can be used for therapeutic applications,
  such as treating neurological conditions and
  injuries.

7
Functions of Neural Stem Cells

• The following are the functions of neural stem
  cells
• They support the growth and development of the
  entire nervous system
• They repair or replace damaged nerve tissue and
  neurons during illness
• This is why neural stem cell transplantation may
  be prescribed to treat certain neurological
  conditions, particularly those affecting the CNS.

8
Treating Stroke with Neural Stem Cells

• Neural stem cells may be used to treat patients
  suffering post-stroke complications. There are
  two approaches that can support a patient They
  are
• Endogenous Approach
• Exogenous Approach

9
Endogenous Approach

• Adult NSCs that are present in the patients own
  body are stimulated to activate and differentiate
  within the damaged areas of the brain.
• Neurotrophic factors, small molecules, and other
  therapeutic interventions are harnessed to create
  a microenvironment conducive to neural stem cell
  activation and neurogenesis.

10
Exogenous Approach

• NSCs may be extracted from various sources, such
  as embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem
  cells, or adult neural stem cells. The cultured
  NSCs are transplanted into the regions of the
  brain affected by stroke. They have the
  capability to differentiate into neurons and
  support cells, replacing damaged or lost tissue.
  This approach aims to enhance neural repair,
  modulate inflammation, and promote functional
  recovery after a stroke.

11
Treating Parkinsons with Neural Stem Cells

• It involves replenishing damaged or lost
  dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
• When transplanted into the affected brain
  regions, NSCs differentiate into
  dopamine-producing neurons, restoring the
  neurotransmitter balance.
• This can considerably reduce tremor, which is a
  classic sign of Parkinsons and slow down the
  progression of the disease.

12
Regenerative Rehabilitation at Plexus

• At Plexus Bangalore and Hyderabad, we offer
  customized regenerative rehabilitation programs
  for stroke, Parkinsons, and other neurological
  and neurodegenerative disorders. Our programs
  involve a combination of stem cell therapy,
  occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech
  and language therapy, cognitive rehabilitation
  therapy, and so on.
• To know more, reach out to us today.
• WhatsApp [phone]
• Call 91 78159 64668 (Hyderabad) 91 82299
  99888 (Bangalore)