Toru Yamashita and Koji Abe
Since strokes are a major cause of death and result in a drastic reduction in the quality of life, a new strategy to minimize ischemic-related damage is thus required. Recent evidence indicates that endogenous neural stem cells of the subventricular zone give rise to not only neurons but also oligodendrocytes, which can restore a disrupted neuronal network in post-ischemic brain, and various kinds of neurotrophic factors, such as EGF, are known to promote this process. To promote the functional recovery of post-stroke brain, angiogenesis is also essential. It has been suggested that circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can play an important role in angiogenesis of the post-stroke brain. The number or function of EPCs can also be modulated by various kinds of factors. For example, VEGF, G-CSF and statins can increase EPC levels. In this review, we discuss the present knowledge of endogenous neurogenesis/oligodendrogenesis/angiogenesis and how to enhance their ability to restore the neuronal network through self-repair strategies.