Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Applications in Stroke Therapy

Stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity worldwide, with limited pharmacological options beyond thrombolysis and thrombectomy in the acute phase. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), a haematopoietic cytokine, has emerged as a candidate for both neuroprotection and neurorepair. Administered shortly after cerebral ischaemia, G-CSF can mobilise bone marrow–derived progenitor cells, reduce inflammation, inhibit apoptosis and promote angiogenesis. In later phases, it supports synaptic remodelling and neuroplasticity, potentially enhancing recovery even months after the initial insult. Preclinical studies have elucidated mechanisms involving activation of the Akt signalling pathway, attenuation of endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial stress, and modulation of autophagy. Early clinical trials and meta-analyses have confirmed an acceptable safety profile and hinted at functional gains, particularly in activities of daily living. Combination strategies, notably pairing G-CSF with stem cell factor or erythropoietin, further amplify regenerative processes by fostering dendritic spine formation, vascular remodelling and recruitment of neural progenitors. Together, these findings underscore G-CSF’s dual capacity to limit acute neuronal injury and to foster long-term repair, supporting its continued evaluation in well-powered clinical studies.

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Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Applications in Stroke Therapy publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in granulocyte colony-stimulating factor applications in stroke therapy across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF): A cytokine that mobilises haematopoietic stem cells, exerts anti-apoptotic and immunomodulatory effects and supports neuronal survival.

Ischaemia: Inadequate blood supply to an organ or tissue, leading to oxygen and nutrient deprivation.

Angiogenesis: Formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, crucial for tissue repair.

Autophagy: Cellular process that degrades and recycles intracellular components, which can be protective or lead to cell death if dysregulated.

Neuroplasticity: The capacity of neural circuits to reorganise and form new synaptic connections in response to injury or experience.

Akt signalling pathway: A key intracellular cascade promoting cell survival and growth, often activated by growth factors.

References

1. Mode of action of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) as a novel therapy for stroke in a mouse model. Journal of Biomedical Science (2020).
2. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor therapy for stroke: A pairwise meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE (2017).
3. Repairing the Brain by SCF+G-CSF Treatment at 6 Months Postexperimental Stroke. ASN Neuro (2016).
4. Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Activating HIF-1α Acts Synergistically with Erythropoietin to Promote Tissue Plasticity. PLOS ONE (2010).