Mesenchymal stem cells in osteoarticular diseases

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are mainly isolated from bone marrow or fat tissue. Owing to their potential for multilineage differentiation towards bone, cartilage and fat tissue, they were initially evaluated in innovative strategies for tissue engineering. More recently, they have gained interest for their immunomodulatory properties and have been tested in various clinical trials that aim to modulate the host immune response in graft-versus-host disease or autoimmune diseases. MSC-mediated immunomodulation occurs through the secretion of soluble mediators. The clinical applications of MSCs for rheumatic diseases focus on their potential to promote tissue repair/regeneration and prevent inflammation. This article will focus on the mechanisms by which MSCs might exhibit a therapeutic potential in rheumatology. Special attention is given to their potential for innovative future strategies.