Aktueller stand und perspektive der zelltransplantation bei neurodegenerativen erkrankungen

Transplantation of neuronal stem cells is a promising therapeutic option in neurodegenerative diseases. Especially Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease with their distinct and well characterized cellular pathology, unavoidable clinical deterioration and several animal models are recognized as suitable models for basic and clinical research in neurotransplantation. As most recent datas about fetal and adult neuronal progenitor cells have significantly enriched our knowledge abaut regeneratian and plosticity in the developing and adult brain, there are now diverse efforts to transfer this "physiological" potential into pratacols far neurotransplantatian in animal models. In parallel, preliminary studies in humans initiated a broad discussion about ethical issues and technological aspects. An international scientific and public consensus about these issues should precede further therapeutic intervention in humans to avoid discredit of this promising technique.