Biomaterial platforms for enhanced stem cell therapy in ischemic stroke

作者：Sun Z, Zhao J, Li J, Ma X, Wang Z, Wang Y, Li Y, Bai Y, Wei D, Jiang W · 发表于：Biomaterials · 年份：2027 · DOI：10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124427 · 研究领域：Biomaterials、Functional recovery、Ischemic stroke、Neuroregeneration、Scaffolds、Stem cell therapies

Ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, and existing therapies have a very limited capacity to repair lost neurons or restore brain function. This review examines how biomaterial-enhanced stem cell therapies can address these shortcomings by creating microenvironments that actively drive brain tissue regeneration. We propose a comprehensive framework for classifying neural repair biomaterials, emphasizing biological scaffolds, assisted stem cell tracking, and preconditioning strategies to enhance stem cell function. Within this framework, we systematically compare different material systems and cell types across shared therapeutic goals, identifying which design features are most effective for specific outcomes. The physical space or mechanical stimuli of biomaterials, along with their chemical environment, particularly the biological signals that affect cell adhesion or growth factors, play essential roles in morphological outcomes and therapeutic improvement. This review summarizes various strategies for modifying specific cellular functions; for instance, conductive polymers may promote neurite growth. We have preliminarily established design principles for the combined application of specific cell types and biomaterials, which may serve as a guiding strategy. However, clinical translation remains constrained by an incomplete understanding of the complex interactions among cells, materials, and the dynamically evolving microenvironment, a...