Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow has been reported to ameliorate functional deficits in several CNS diseases in experimental animal models. The objectives of this study were to examine feasibility and safety of cell therapy using auto serum-expanded autologous MSCs in the stroke patients. Twelve (male and female) patients with stroke were enrolled. Cryopreserved MSCs were thawed and injected intravenously into patients over 30 min. Serial evaluations showed no severe adverse cell-related effects. In patients with cerebral infarcts, the intravenous administration of autologous MSCs appears to be feasible and safe, and merits further study as a therapy that may improve functional recovery.
