The rats completely recovered from a stroke within two weeks with stem cell therapy (Wiki Commons)

Stem cell therapy administered shortly after a stroke could significantly increase the sufferer's chance of a complete recovery.

When administered to rats within 30 minutes of suffering a stroke, the rodents made a full recovery within two weeks, a study showed.

The research, published in BioMed Central's open access journalStem Cell Research & Therapy, found that stem cells from the bone marrow of fat can improve the recovery of rats following a stroke.

Researchers at La Paz University Hospital found that treatment improved the amount of brain and nerve repair, as well as the animal's ability to complete tasks.

Rats were treated intravenously with stem cells half an hour after a stroke. In humans, such rapid response is known to dramatically improve the outcome of victims.

The researchers found improvements in the stem cell group within 24 hours of the treatment, compared to the control group.

The FAST response advertising campaign has aimed to increase awareness of symptoms. Facial and arm weakness and speech problems suggest it is time to call emergency services.

Human trials

A delay in treatment can result in death or long-term disabilities. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.

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Stem Cell Therapy Helps Stroke Victims Recover in Two Weeks