Tissue Stem Cell-Based Therapies in Parkinson's Disease: A Scoping Review of Therapeutic Mechanisms and Translational Outcomes

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

(1) Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by dopaminergic neuronal loss. Tissue stem cell-based therapies have emerged as promising candidates for disease modification and symptomatic relief. This scoping review aims to systematically synthesise the literature on tissue stem cell therapies for PD across cellular, animal, and human studies, with a focus on transplantation strategies, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic outcomes. (2) Methods: We identified 1017 records by querying PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and the Virtual Health Library. After screening and applying eligibility criteria, 33 experimental studies were included. Data were extracted on study design, tissue stem cell source, type of subject, and therapeutic effects. (3) Results: Most studies (n = 25) involved animal models, with a minority (n = 8) focusing on human applications. Tissue stem cell therapies showed potential to promote dopaminergic differentiation, reduce inflammation and apoptosis, and improve behavioural and motor outcomes. Autologous transplants yielded a higher safety and efficacy compared to allogeneic ones. The beneficial mechanisms of tissue stem cells included neurotrophic support, mitochondrial protection, modulation of the gut-brain axis, and α-synuclein clearance. (4) Conclusions: Tissue stem cell therapies represent a promising approa

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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