Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells in otorhinolaryngology

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are primitive cells capable of restoring damaged mesenchyme and with the ability to differentiate into mature cells of bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, nerve or fibrous tissues. MSCs are therefore good candidates for applications in regenerative medicine and cell based therapy. They regenerate through self-renewal, differentiational capacity, immune modulation and secretion of bioactive molecules. Authors present a review of MSCs applications in otorhinolaryngology. The major interest is focused on phonosurgery, sensorineural deafness and reconstruction of large tissue defects with bone, cartilage or soft tissue replacement. Current evidence of MSCs treatment efficacy in otorhinolaryngology is based on animal models. The true impact on clinical treatment will not be known until clinical studies prove functional outcomes in human medicine.