Nanotherapeutic and Stem Cell Therapeutic Strategies in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

In Neurodegenerative diseases the central or peripheral nerve systems gradually stop to perform proper functions. The treatments available are only help to relieve some physical or mental symptoms associated with these disorders. Due to its relatively extended duration, neurodegenerative disorders have become a major burden on families and society. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD) are examples of neurodegenerative disorders that are either incurable or extremely difficult to treat. Therefore, new therapies are sought in which autologous stem cells are used. Stem cell therapy produces positive outcomes through a variety of pathways, including the direct replacement of lost or injured cells, the production of neurotrophic and growth factors and the stimulation of endogenous stem cells. However, low rates of stem cells differentiation and survival prevent them from being used in more therapeutic settings. Numerous intriguing nanomaterials for biomedical applications have been made possible by the quick development of nanotechnology. These materials are already widely used in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and appear to be able to make up for some of the shortcomings in stem cell therapy. Thus, a viable therapeutic method to treat neurodegenerative disorders is the combination of stem cell therapy and nanotherapeutic technologies.