Regenerative Medicine Approaches for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Injury

0.0 - Regenerative Medicine Approaches for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Injury

Presenter: , , ,
Authors: Stephen Shelby Burks and Xiaokui Zhang

Overview

Dr. Burks will discuss the Use of Schwann Cells in the Treatment of Severe Peripheral Nerve Injury. Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is characterized by a loss of cellular and axonal integrity, often leading to limited functional recovery and pain. Many PNIs are not amenable to repair with traditional techniques; however, cell therapies, particularly Schwann cells (SCs), offer the promise of neural tissue and functional replacement. Use of autologous cells obviates the need for immune suppression and allows for utilization of the regenerative Schwann cell machinery. At his institution they have enrolled 8 patients with severe nerve injury in both the upper and lower extremities. Long-term results suggest significant improvement with SC transplantation. This work has laid the foundation for upcoming multi-institutional clinical trials.

Dr. Zhang will discuss Autologous iPSC-Derived Neuron Replacement for Parkinson’s Disease. Aspen Neuroscience is advancing a personalized neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson’s disease using autologous induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). This presentation will highlight Aspen’s development of iPSC-derived dopaminergic neuron precursor cells (DANPC) and its AI-driven quality control system to ensure product safety and function. Dr.Zhang will share preclinical and early clinical insights, discuss the advantages of autologous cell therapy without immunosuppression, and explore the path toward scalable, individualized regenerative medicine for PD.

Learning Objectives

Explain the therapeutic potential of Schwann cell transplantation in patients with severe peripheral nerve injuries and summarize preliminary clinical outcomes from ongoing trials. Describe the development and application of autologous iPSC-derived dopaminergic neuron precursor cells (DANPCs) for personalized treatment of Parkinson’s disease, including AI-based quality control systems. Compare the advantages and challenges of autologous versus allogeneic cell therapies, especially in the context of immune compatibility, scalability, and clinical translation.