Abstract: The disclosure provides, inter alia, methods for enhancing the contribution of circulating stem cells to a target tissue. Such methods may be useful for treating a variety of disorders. In a preferred embodiments, circulating stem cell contribution is enhanced by causing damage to the target tissue, or by administering an agent that mimics an aspect of a damage response. The disclosure also provides methods for monitoring the contribution of circulating stem cells to a target tissue, and for developing agents that modulate such contribution.

Abstract: The invention provides, among other things, novel methods of treating neurological disorders which result in the loss of neurons (neuronal deficiencies). Bone marrow-derived cells are administered to individuals suffering from neuronal deficiencies. Administration of bone marrow-derived cells results in formation of bone marrow derived neurons, whether formed de novo or as a result of fusion with an existing neuron, thereby replacing or repairing lost or damaged neurons. The methods of the invention may also be used for memory augmentation in memory impaired individuals.