Advances in Neural Stem Cell Medicine

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to highlight cutting-edge research and emerging developments in neural stem cell biology, with a particular focus on its transformative potential in regenerative medicine and the treatment of neurological disorders. As our understanding of neural stem cells (NSCs) continues to evolve, so too does the promise of novel diagnostics and therapeutics for conditions ranging from traumatic brain injuries to complex neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. We invite contributions that address key biological mechanisms, innovative applications, and translational challenges in this rapidly advancing field. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Neural stem cell characterization and lineage specification: Studies exploring the molecular identity, heterogeneity, self-renewal properties, and differentiation potential of NSCs across developmental stages and disease contexts. We particularly welcome work leveraging single-cell technologies, epigenetic profiling, or live imaging to uncover regulatory mechanisms.
• Mechanisms of neurogenesis and neural repair: Research elucidating the intrinsic and extrinsic signals that govern NSC proliferation, migration, and integration into host tissue, especially in the context of injury or neurodegeneration. This includes investigations into the role of inflammatory signaling, extracellular matrix components, and neurovascular interactions.
• Clinical translation and therapeutic strategies using neural stem cells: Preclinical and clinical studies focused on the application of NSCs in cell-based therapies, including transplantation strategies, engineered neural tissues, and approaches that stimulate endogenous stem cell populations. We also encourage submissions addressing delivery methods, immune responses, and long-term safety and efficacy.
• Neural stem cell-based modeling of neurodegenerative diseases: Development and use of NSC-derived models—both 2D cultures and 3D organoids—to study disease mechanisms, screen potential drugs, or identify biomarkers. Submissions may also explore how patient-specific iPSC-derived NSCs can contribute to personalized medicine.
• Stem cell-derived exosomes and cell-free therapies: Innovative approaches utilizing extracellular vesicles or secretomes from NSCs as therapeutic agents. Contributions may include functional studies on exosome cargo, targeted delivery, and biomaterial-based systems to enhance therapeutic outcomes without direct cell transplantation.

We welcome original research articles, reviews, and perspectives from experts across neuroscience, stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and translational research.

Prof. Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• neural stem cell
• neurodegenerative diseases
• cell therapy
• exosomes