Mesenchymal stem cell therapy is aimed at supporting the brain’s natural recovery mechanisms after stroke, including neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, and the regulation of inflammatory processes.
Book a consultationThe brain has the ability to reorganize neural networks and form new connections, allowing it to partially compensate for lost functions. This ability is known as neuroplasticity. The brain retains its capacity for neuroplasticity throughout life, although the extent of this ability and the pace of recovery change over time.
The type of rehabilitation a patient needs after a stroke depends on the nature and severity of their impairments, the location of the brain injury, their overall health, and the stage of recovery. Stroke recovery is a long-term process that involves several key components: ongoing medical monitoring, regular rehabilitation, and, when indicated, additional approaches aimed at supporting the body's natural recovery mechanisms, including mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy.
The effects of a stroke vary depending on which area of the brain is affected and the extent of the damage. The most common types of impairment include:
These symptoms can occur in different combinations, even in patients with strokes affecting similar areas of the brain. Such variation is expected and reflects individual differences in cerebral blood supply and brain anatomy.
Stroke recovery is generally divided into three stages, each with its own goals and appropriate interventions.
The primary goal is to stabilize vital functions and, whenever possible, restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain. In ischemic stroke, this may involve thrombolysis—the administration of clot-dissolving medication, which is effective within the first 4.5 hours after symptom onset—or mechanical thrombectomy, a catheter-based procedure to remove the blood clot, typically performed within 6–12 hours and, in selected cases, up to 24 hours after symptom onset. At the same time, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and body temperature are closely monitored. Once the patient's condition is stable, rehabilitation begins as early as the first 24–48 hours. Initial interventions may include assisted mobilization to an upright position, breathing exercises, swallowing assessment, and, when appropriate, the first attempts at independent eating.
This is typically the period of the most active recovery, when the brain's capacity for neuroplasticity plays a particularly important role in regaining lost functions. During this stage, patients receive a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation. A multidisciplinary team regularly reassesses the patient's progress and adjusts the rehabilitation plan accordingly.
By this stage, the damaged area of the brain has undergone glial scar formation, a process known as gliosis, and the rate of spontaneous recovery has slowed. In the past, it was widely believed that rehabilitation offered little benefit beyond six months or a year after a stroke and could therefore be discontinued. Today, we know that this is not the case. The brain retains its ability to learn throughout life, although its response to rehabilitation may become slower and require greater persistence and sustained effort. At this stage, cell therapy may be considered as an additional treatment within a comprehensive stroke recovery program.
Rehabilitation helps patients regain some of their lost functions and become more independent in daily life. However, it has its limitations. According to WHO data, approximately 60% of stroke survivors experience some degree of long-term disability, and only up to 25% return to full employment. Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability among adults. This is why clinicians continue to seek additional treatments that can enhance the benefits of rehabilitation rather than replace it.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cells capable of interacting with other cells in the body, regulating inflammatory responses, and influencing the repair of damaged tissues. Their effects are primarily mediated through intercellular communication: MSCs release biologically active molecules that influence inflammation, angiogenesis, neuronal survival, and neuroplasticity.
Several key components play an important role in these processes:
Based on these mechanisms, several potential effects of MSCs have been identified:
The onset and extent of improvements following cell therapy vary from patient to patient. Some patients may begin to notice changes within the first few months after cell administration. However, outcomes should be assessed over time, taking into account the effects of ongoing rehabilitation. According to clinical observations, patients undergoing mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy may experience improvements in the following areas:
Motor function, including arm and hand function (grip strength and coordination) and leg function (stability and walking ability).
Speech and language abilities, including speech production and comprehension.
Cognitive function, including memory, attention, and concentration.
Emotional well-being, including reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Balance and coordination, with reduced dizziness in some cases.
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has been studied since the 1990s. More than 200 scientific publications and several dozen clinical trials have investigated its potential use in stroke treatment and recovery.
One of the most comprehensive analyses is a 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis that included 30 studies, 15 of which were randomized controlled trials, involving a total of 1,217 patients. The findings showed statistically significant improvements in scores on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), which measures functional disability and independence. Mortality was also lower among patients who received cell therapy compared with the control group (Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 2024).
Two major multicenter trials of cell therapy for ischemic stroke are particularly noteworthy:
Research is ongoing. The TREASURE investigators themselves have noted that a pooled analysis of the TREASURE and subsequent MASTERS-2 trials is planned to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of this treatment. The MASTERS-2 trial is still underway.
Regarding safety, meta-analyses involving up to 2,000 patients, with follow-up periods extending over several years, have found no association between MSC administration and an increased risk of cancer or a higher incidence of immune or allergic reactions.
In December 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy for the treatment of graft-versus-host disease in pediatric patients (FDA, 2024). Although this approval concerns a different indication—not stroke—it demonstrates that MSC-based products can meet regulatory requirements for clinical use when appropriate quality and safety standards are maintained.
Stem cells have been used for more than 30 years, and during this time, clinical studies have reported no cases of cancer attributable to stem cell administration or any other serious adverse effects. Based on the available evidence, we can now say that stem cell administration is safe, provided the cells are properly cultured and handled under appropriate laboratory conditions.
A patient coordinator discusses the reason for the visit and schedules an appointment with the appropriate specialist. During the consultation, the physician takes a medical history, reviews the patient's available medical records, performs a clinical examination, and develops a plan for any necessary diagnostic tests.
Before receiving mesenchymal stem cell therapy, patients undergo laboratory tests, ultrasound examinations, and cancer screening, even if they have no history of cancer. Most of these examinations can be completed at the clinic in a single day.
Based on the examination results, a multidisciplinary team of physicians develops an individualized mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment plan tailored to the patient's condition and discusses it with the patient. At this stage, the team also assesses potential contraindications, including cancer, acute infectious or inflammatory conditions, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Mesenchymal stem cells from the clinic's own biobank are used as part of the stroke recovery program. The cells are administered by intravenous infusion. A standard treatment course consists of two infusions approximately two weeks apart. During the first one to two days after the procedure, patients may experience headaches, fatigue, or a mild increase in body temperature. In most cases, these symptoms are mild and temporary. However, patients should inform their physician of any changes in how they feel.
Each cell-based preparation is individually prepared and undergoes laboratory quality testing, including bacterial and viral safety testing and assessment of cell viability using three different methods. According to pharmacopoeial standards, cell viability must exceed 90%. ReoCell preparations achieve a cell viability rate of 98–99%. Each dose is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) documenting the results of all quality control tests.
Cell therapy is combined with physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation. This combined approach is intended to achieve better outcomes than either treatment strategy alone.
The patient's condition is assessed using standardized clinical tests before treatment and during follow-up visits. The physician maintains regular contact with the patient to monitor changes in their condition. Recovery progress is evaluated over the following months, as both the timing and extent of improvements vary from patient to patient. If necessary, a repeat treatment course may be prescribed, but no more frequently than once a year.
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Every patient is unique, which is why we develop individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific health needs and medical condition. Our goal is to achieve the best possible therapeutic outcome for each patient.
Our physicians and researchers are recognized experts in their respective fields. They continuously advance their knowledge and skills, incorporating the latest treatment techniques into clinical practice.
We provide a full range of services, from the preparation of cell-based products to their clinical administration. Our state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratory and cryobank ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.
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I appreciate the comprehensive approach: everything was explained to me in detail, a thorough diagnosis was carried out, and I was supported throughout the entire treatment. The material collection and the subsequent cell injection were comfortable.
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I am very grateful to ReoCell clinic! I used fibroblast cell therapy for skin rejuvenation; I am 55 years old. My own fibroblasts were used, and I later also banked them in the ReoCell bank. The result exceeded my expectations. My skin became smooth, fresh and firm. I recommend it!
At ReoCell clinic I had a rejuvenation procedure with a product based on fibroblast-conditioned medium to improve my skin. I was bothered by constant inflammatory breakouts, redness and dryness. I saw the result after 2 weeks — the red spots disappeared, and my skin looked "fresh" and more hydrated. After a course of 3 procedures over 3 months, my skin became firmer, the tone evened out, the dullness disappeared, and I looked healthier and more radiant. Half a year has passed since the start of treatment, and the effect still lasts; acquaintances and friends say I look rested and younger. I see the proof of these words in the mirror too, which makes me happy: in the morning light make-up is enough, and my look and mood are wonderful. Thank you to dermatologist Maryna Malanushenko for the excellent result!
Recovery after an ischemic stroke is possible, although it can be a lengthy process requiring a comprehensive approach. The effects of cell therapy are not immediate. Cell therapy is considered an additional treatment that may support the body's natural recovery processes. Initial improvements are often noticeable within the first few weeks, with more pronounced changes occurring over the following 1–4 months.
The extent of improvement depends on the patient's condition, how much time has passed since the stroke, and whether rehabilitation is ongoing. The prognosis also depends on the type and extent of brain damage, when rehabilitation was initiated, the presence of underlying medical conditions, and how consistently the rehabilitation program is followed. None of these factors acts in isolation; recovery outcomes are influenced by their combined effects.
Functional improvements can occur even in more severe cases, years after a stroke. Patients with spastic paresis and established contractures who undergo long-term rehabilitation may continue to improve their muscle strength, walking distance, and cognitive performance, even when the contracture itself cannot be fully corrected.
There are also documented cases of patients who began structured rehabilitation 9–11 years after a stroke and still achieved meaningful functional improvements.
The key requirement is that the patient’s condition is stable and vital functions are under control. There is no strict time limit: cell therapy may be administered during the early recovery phase or even years after a stroke, although earlier treatment generally leads to a faster response.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have anti-inflammatory, vascular, and neuroprotective properties, regardless of whether a patient has experienced a first or recurrent stroke. However, following a recurrent stroke, underlying medical conditions and strict control of stroke risk factors become particularly important. Therefore, the decision to proceed with cell therapy is made on an individual basis during a medical consultation.
A standard treatment course consists of two intravenous infusions approximately two weeks apart. Initial clinical improvements typically become noticeable around three months after completing the treatment course, with the effects gradually increasing over the following year. If necessary, a repeat course may be prescribed, but no more than once a year.
This is the recommended approach. Rehabilitation remains the cornerstone of post-stroke recovery, while cell therapy aims to enhance the brain’s responsiveness to rehabilitation. Together, these approaches are intended to achieve better outcomes than either treatment alone.
The main contraindications are determined according to the clinic’s treatment protocol and the patient’s individual health status. These may include active cancer, acute infections or inflammatory conditions, pregnancy and breastfeeding, HIV infection and AIDS, an unstable mental health condition, and blood clotting disorders.
Before the procedure, every patient undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation, including cancer screening. The physician determines the full list of individual contraindications during the consultation.
Age alone is not a contraindication to cell therapy and does not reduce its effectiveness. Treatment decisions are based on the patient’s overall health and medical evaluation results rather than chronological age.
According to clinical observations, improvements in grip strength, hand coordination, and speech can occur even in patients who are 2–3 years post-stroke. The extent of arm and hand function recovery varies from patient to patient and depends on the extent of brain damage and whether the patient continues to participate in rehabilitation.
Recovery outcomes are never determined by a single factor. The speed and extent of recovery after an ischemic stroke depend on a combination of factors:
Rehabilitation should not be delayed. The first weeks and months after a stroke represent a period when the body’s natural recovery mechanisms are particularly active, and opportunities lost during this time can be difficult to fully regain later.
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