World Journal of Stem Cells · Dec 25, 2025

Exercise with induced pluripotent stem cells enhances Wnt1-Lmx1a signaling and dopaminergic neurogenesis to alleviate Parkinsonian symptoms

By Arafat A, Soliman SMA, Farghaly TA et al.

This article focused on the recent contribution by Jiang et al, who demonstrated that voluntary exercise can significantly potentiate the effects of induced pluripotent stem cell transplantation in a Parkinson's disease (PD) model through activation of the Wnt1-Lmx1a signaling cascade. Jiang et al's findings highlight the role of exercise as a molecular modulator of neurogenesis and support the development of integrated strategies combining physical activity, stem cell transplantation, and biomaterials to improve outcomes in PD. We highlight exercise as a molecular modulator that fosters a neurogenic milieu, recommend examining additional developmental signals (sonic hedgehog, fibroblast growth factor 8, bone morphogenetic protein), and suggest biomaterial-based strategies to support graft survival and integration. We also stress the need to optimize exercise regimens in relation to transplantation, framing these insights within a translational strategy for advancing regenerative therapies in PD.

doi.org/10.4252/wjsc.v17.i12.113924Open accessPubMed 41480396Interventions