An overview of therapies to promote repair of the brain after stroke

Abstract

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability. Most patients show some degree of spontaneous recovery, but this is generally incomplete. Studies on the neurobiology of this recovery are providing clues to therapeutic interventions that aim to improve patient outcomes. A number of potential such restorative therapies are reviewed. Numerous treatment strategies are under study. Most have a time window measured in days or weeks and so have the potential to help a large fraction of patients. This review considers these therapies, as well as points to consider in translating their application to human trials.