In the process of central nervous (CNS) system development and injury repair, changes in stem cells play important roles. The neural repair is closely related to the differentiation of stem cells, including in situ neural stem cells and circulating mesenchymal stem cells. Although stem cells have a definite effect on nerve injury, the mechanism of intercellular interactions remains unclear. Firstly, the method of targeting and activating endogenous stem cells is not yet stable. Secondly, the transplantation of exogenous stem cells is challenged by immune rejection and a lack of specific differentiation. Furthermore, the mechanism by which stem cells repair damaged neurons remains unclear. Specifically, it is uncertain whether repair occurs through transdifferentiating or intercellular interactions. It is important to investigate whether there are specific targets within neurons that can enhance the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells. Novel treatment strategies such as extracellular vesicles and cell-targeted therapy based on biomaterials have emerged to address these issues. In clinical practice, what are the effects and risks of exogenous stem cell therapy for CNS injury.

This special issue delves into the essential aspects of CNS injury repair through stem cell therapy. Specifically, the focus is on the contribution of stem cells in the management of neurological disorders associated with acute brain injury, chronic stroke, and spinal cord injury. Furthermore, an examination of the therapeutic effectiveness of stem cell-based formulations in addressing neuronal injury is conducted.

- The activation of endogenous stem cells for the purpose of repairing CNS injuries through the utilization of gene editing and biomaterials techniques.
- The involvement of exogenous stem cells and stem cell-based preparations in the treatment of spinal cord injury, acute brain injury, and other CNS injuries is being explored.
- Advancements of in vitro cell modeling, specifically utilizing stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cells, to investigate the mechanisms of interaction between stem cells and neurons.
- Cell populations associated with metabolism and repair, utilizing techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing, metabolomics, and spatial metabolomics.
- The development of biomaterials or small molecule drugs is based on stem cells that regulate neuronal repair in the CNS.
- The potential risks of CNS injury treated with both endogenous and exogenous stem cells.
- Clinical research conducted to evaluate the treatment outcomes and associated risks of using exogenous stem cells in patients with central nervous system injury.

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Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience

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