Direct reprogramming of induced neural progenitors: A new promising strategy for AD treatment

Siqiang Lai, Min Zhang, Dongsheng Xu, Yiying Zhang, Lisha Qiu, Changhai Tian, Jialin Charlie Zheng

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prominent form of dementia, characterized by aggregation of the amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, loss of synapses and neurons, and degeneration of cognitive functions. Currently, although a variety of medications can relieve some of the symptoms, there is no cure for AD. Recent breakthroughs in the stem cell field provide promising strategies for AD treatment. Stem cells including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are potentials for AD treatment. However, the limitation of cell sources, safety issues, and ethical issues restrict their applications in AD. Recently, the direct reprogramming of induced neural progenitor cells (iNPCs) has shed light on the treatment of AD. In this review, we will discuss the latest progress, challenges, and potential applications of direct reprogramming in AD treatment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number7
JournalTranslational Neurodegeneration
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 18 2015

Keywords

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Induced neural progenitor cells
  • Stem cell-based therapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

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