Overview

• A peer‑reviewed Nature Communications study from the University of Zurich and USC reports that human iPSC‑derived neural stem cells transplanted into mouse brains one week after permanent ischemic stroke drove recovery over a five‑week period.
• Transplanted cells survived through the study, predominantly differentiated into GABAergic neurons, and established communication with existing brain cells.
• Treated brains showed reduced inflammation, increased neurogenesis and angiogenesis, improved blood–brain barrier integrity, and higher neuronal connectivity relative to controls.
• Motor deficits reversed as mice regained fine motor performance on a ladder task and demonstrated significant gait improvements by five weeks.
• The team identifies superior outcomes with subacute, one‑week timing, uses animal‑free manufacturing protocols with CiRA, and is developing a safety switch and endovascular delivery, with human application remaining contingent on further safety and durability data.