Attempts to reconstruct Neural Circuits by Cell Transplantation

Abstract

  There is hope for neural regeneration through stem cell-derived neural cell transplantation. In particular, the reconstruction of neural circuits has a different mode of action from that of conventional medical treatment or gene therapy and is expected to have more fundamental effects. However, there are many issues to overcome, such as producing appropriate donor cells, controlling neural connections after transplantation, and establishing tumor formation. Cell-based therapy has been developed mainly for Parkinson's disease, and transplantation of ES/iPS cell-derived dopaminergic neurons is already in clinical trials. In addition, developmental research for treating stroke is underway, and further developments using brain organoids are expected.