Schwann cells differentiated from adipose‑derived stem cells for the treatment of brain contusion

Abstract

Rapid development of tissue engineering techniques has led to the possibility of treating central nervous injuries with Schwann cells (SCs). However, certain characteristics of SCs, such as a low proliferation ability, greatly restrict their use. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether SCs differentiated from adipose‑derived stem cells (ADSC‑SCs) could used to promote functional recovery in brain contusion in rat. ADSCs were isolated and expanded from the groin of Sprague‑Dawley rats and differentiated into SCs. The ADSC‑SCs were transplanted into the contused rat brain and the locomotor function of the rats was assessed. Significant locomotor function recovery was observed in hemiparalyzed rats treated with ADSCs‑SCs. In conclusion, transplantation of ADSC‑SCs significantly promoted functional recovery following brain contusion.