A stroke happens when blood flow is interrupted, resulting in a lack of oxygen reaching the brain for a period of time. Around 795,000 Americans are struck by a stroke each year, and it may hit anybody of any age. If a stroke is not detected early and treated within hours of its onset, there was very little that could be done to avoid brain damage until recently. Recent research and clinical trials using actual stroke patients’ stem cells, on the other hand, have shown astounding outcomes.

A haemorrhage or an interruption in the flow of blood to the brain may result in a stroke (bleeding within the brain).

Ischemic stroke

Ischemic strokes, on the other hand, are the result of a tiny blockage in a blood artery. These are often plaque or blood clot fragments. Nearly 87% of all strokes each year are ischemic in nature. If blood supply to the brain is cut off, brain cells begin to die within minutes, potentially resulting in long-term damage and neurological problems. Until recently, blood clots have been dissolvable with conventional therapies like tissue plasminogen activators (tPA). They are generally useless in avoiding long-term impairment if not given within hours of the stroke.

What is the mechanism of action of stem cell therapy?

Non-invasive stem cell therapy attempts to replace the body’s damaged cells. The patient’s requirements determine whether mesenchymal stem cells are administered systemically through IV or locally to particular locations.

Stroke patients may benefit from stem cell therapy because of the anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties of the cells. Stroke patients may benefit from stem cell therapy since it is a non-invasive therapeutic option. If given early on, stem cell therapy for stroke recovery may be beneficial.

Can stroke patients benefit from the use of stem cells?

The regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties of stem cells help them find and repair damaged tissue in the body. The Stanford University School of Medicine used stem cells for clinical studies on stroke patients of various ages, from 6 months to 3 years after their stroke happened, in order to remedy this problem. 18 people, with an average age of 61, took part in the study, which utilised stem cell transplant treatment in the brain.

Donor bone marrow was used to generate the study’s stem cells. The motor function of all individuals improved after a few months. After therapy, patients improved an average of 11.4 points on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, a stroke-specific impairment test. These improvements lasted for years after the university stopped monitoring the patients for the condition. Stroke symptoms may appear years after the onset of a stroke, yet stem cells can still be helpful in treating them years later, regardless of the patient’s age.