A Meta-Analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Animal Models of Parkinson's Disease

Multiple studies have been performed to evaluate the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in animal models of Parkinson's disease (PD). We performed a meta-analysis to estimate the treatment effect of unmodified MSCs on behavioral outcomes in preclinical studies of PD. We performed a systematic literature search to identify studies that used behavioral testing to evaluate the treatment effect of unmodified MSCs in PD models. Meta-analysis was used to determine pooled effect size for rotational behavior and limb function, and meta-regression was performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. Twenty-five studies, including three delivery routes, a wide range of doses, and multiple PD models, were examined. Significant improvement was seen in the pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) for both rotational behavior [SMD: 1.24, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.84, 1.64] and limb function (SMD: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.01, 1.66). Using meta-regression, intravenous administration and higher dose had a larger effect on limb function. Treatment with MSCs improves behavioral outcomes in PD models. Our analyses suggest that MSCs could be considered for early-stage clinical trials in the treatment of PD.