Numerous Types of Stem Cells Possess Potential to Treat Congenital Hydrocephalus

Abstract

Twenty-five percent of premature neonate’s experience Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) and 10% of these events are complicated further by the occurrence of hydrocephalus. The number of infants at high risk for IVH and therefore Post Hemorrhagic Hydrocephalus (PHH), is rising due to improved survival rate of premature infants. Fetal onset hydrocephalus is a heterogeneous brain disorder involving Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) dynamics and is a result of both genetic and environmental factors. Mesenchymal stem cells present themselves as a potent therapeutic modality for brain injury based on their multipotency, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and angiogenic functions. Numerous animal model clinical provide evidence that Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) can target nearly all mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus. Unrestricted somatic stem cells possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties as well as release growth factors and cytokines with known neuroprotective and axonal growth promoting functions. Neural stem cells are self-sustaining, pluripotent cells that have the capability to correct brain maldevelopment, reduce brain damage, promote regeneration and repair via neurotrophic and immunomodulatory mechanisms and direct cell replacement. For these reasons, stem cells possess the potential to be an effective therapy and should be further researched.