Stem Cell Therapy for Neuroprotection in the Growth-Restricted Newborn

Abstract Fetal growth restriction (FGR) occurs when a fetus is unable to grow normally due to inadequate nutrient and oxygen supply from the placenta. Children born with FGR are at high risk of lifelong adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, such as cerebral palsy, behavioral issues, and learning and attention difficulties. Unfortunately, there is no treatment to protect the FGR newborn from these adverse neurological outcomes. Chronic inflammation and vascular disruption are prevalent in the brains of FGR neonates and therefore targeted treatments may be key to neuroprotection. Tissue repair and regeneration via stem cell therapies have emerged as a potential clinical intervention for FGR babies at risk for neurological impairment and long-term disability. This review discusses the advancement of research into stem cell therapy for treating neurological diseases and how this may be extended for use in the FGR newborn. Leading preclinical studies using stem cell therapies in FGR animal models will be highlighted and the near-term steps that need to be taken for the development of future clinical trials. Graphical Abstract Fetal growth restriction (FGR) results in significant neurodevelopmental issues via chronic ischemia that can lead to lifelong physical and mental disabilities. This review highlights the latest research in the development of stem cell therapies in preclinical and clinical trials aiming at repairing and reversing the neuronal damage, as well as discussing the gaps that remain in this field of research.