Cerebral stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with limited therapeutic options to effectively restore lost neurological function. Cell therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to enhance neuroregeneration and functional recovery after stroke. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the preclinical applications of cell therapy for cerebral stroke, using various cell types including neural stem cells mesenchymal stem cells and bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells each with distinct mechanisms of action such as neuroprotection and neurogenesis, immunomodulation, and angiogenesis. The chapter also outlines the indications and contraindications for cell therapy in stroke patients, as well as cell sources and doses, delivery route. Additionally, the chapter addresses the associated side effects, potential complications, and clinical outcomes observed in recent trials. By integrating findings from preclinical and clinical studies, this chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of cell therapy for cerebral stroke and to discuss future directions for research and clinical application, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols, rigorous clinical trials, and advanced research to optimize the safety and efficacy of cell therapy for stroke patients.
