Stem cell therapy is a safe treatment that improves the recovery of stroke survivors

This study investigated the safety and effectiveness of the human neural stem cell line (HNSCL) CTX0E03 in the treatment of stroke survivors. Researchers suggested that treatment with HNSCL improves the upper limb (arms) function in these patients.

Stroke is the second most common cause of death and the first cause of long-term adult disability. It happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is blocked by a clot or bursts. The brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die. This causes short to long-term side effects such as arm paralysis.

Cell therapies, such as HNSCL modifies early brain injury and may improve recovery after stroke. These therapies consist of treating the patient with human stem cells to replace or repair the damaged tissue/cells. Prior studies showed no safety issues up to 24 months and slight brain improvements in some patients. However, the effects of HNSCL on arm function in earlier stages of stroke recovery are still not clear.

This study included information about 23 stroke survivors who had arm disability. These patients received HNSCL by injection at an average of 7 months after stroke.

Overall, one patient experienced arm improvement at 3 months and 3 others at 6 and 12 months. Improvements were only seen in patients with some arm movement before the study started. Side effects were observed but none was related to HNSCL up to 12 months follow-up. Two deaths were seen, however not related to the HNSCL.

This study concluded that HNSCL is a safe and effective option of treatment for arm disability in stroke survivors.

This study was funded by ReNeuron, Innovate UK, CTX0E03 HNSCL manufactures. This was a very small study. Further, larger trials are needed.