title: Potential of Neural Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Parkinson's Disease.
abstract: Neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation is an emerging strategy for restoring neuronal function in neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), which is characterized by a profound and selective loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Adult neurogenesis generates newborn neurons that can be observed at specialized niches where endothelial cells (ECs) play a significant role in regulating the behavior of NSCs, including self-renewal and differentiating into all neural lineage cells. In this minireview, we highlight the importance of establishing an appropriate microenvironment at the target site of NSC transplantation, where grafted cells integrate into the surroundings in order to enhance DA neurotransmission. Using a novel model of NSC-EC coculture, it is possible to combine ECs with NSCs, to generate such a neurovascular microenvironment. With appropriate NSCs selected, the composition of the transplant can be investigated through paracrine and juxtacrine signaling within the neurovascular unit (NVU). With target site cellular and acellular compartments of the microenvironment recognized, guided DA differentiation of NSCs can be achieved. As differentiated DA neurons integrate into the existing nigrostriatal DA pathway, the symptoms of PD can potentially be alleviated by reversing characteristic neurodegeneration.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City 11490, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Chung-Hsing
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Chou
authors.affiliation: Tung's Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital, Wuchi, Taichung, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Hueng-Chuen
authors.identifier: 0000-0003-3485-7558
authors.initials: HC
authors.lastname: Fan
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City 11490, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Dueng-Yuan
authors.initials: DY
authors.lastname: Hueng