Stem cells and their glial derivatives have the potential to serve as local “factories” of growth factors that support the repair of nearby tissues⁷². Thus placement of stem cells in a damaged brain may facilitate repair through these paracrine effects, rather than relying on direct replacement of missing cells.

After a stroke, the brain stem can suffer damage, and stem cells have the potential to help heal this damage. Research has shown that stem cell therapy can promote functional recovery in stroke patients by replacing damaged neurons and promoting the growth of new brain tissue.