Table 1.

Advantages and limitations of different types of cell grafts for the treatment of neuropathic pain models.

Types of cell grafts	Advantages	Limitations
Neural stem cells (NSCs)	Extensive self-regeneration capacity	Low transplant efficiency; malignant transformation possible
Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs)	Easily available; high cell viability in vitro; promote axonal regeneration and myelination	Limited analgesic effect, even causing hyperalgesia
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)	Abundant sources; low immunogenicity; Exosomes: a cell-free approach to transplantation	Gender dimorphism; analgesic effects difference: allodynia superior to hyperalgesia
Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs)	No need for in vitro expansion; facilitate blood vessel formation and tissue repair	May cause neuroapoptosis
GABAergic cells	High survival rate and long survival time	Validate only in rat animal models
Genetically modified cells	Enhance cell viability; improve analgesic effect	Biosafety issues to be considered; risk of tumor formation