Human Neural Cells Engineered In Vitro: Emerging Pathways for Neuroimmunology and Repair

Abstract

Recent advancements in constructing human neural cells in vitro have unveiled significant therapeutic potential for treating neurological injuries and neurodegenerative diseases, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The pivotal role of stem cell technologies, particularly induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs), is emphasized not only in modeling these disorders but also in facilitating cellular replacement therapies. The integration of gene editing techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9, along with innovations in tissue engineering, substantially enhances cell survival and functional integration post-transplantation. Concurrently, emerging technologies like optogenetics and chemogenetics offer precise control over cell behaviors, further promoting effective neural circuit reconstruction. Although preclinical studies have demonstrated promising results, challenges including immune rejection, cellular heterogeneity, and long-term viability remain significant barriers to clinical translation. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis reveals a marked increase in research interest in this field, underscoring the urgent need for sustained, rigorous investigation to optimize transplantation protocols and enhance therapeutic efficacy.