Human-derived normal mesenchymal stem/stromal cells in anticancer therapies

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cell Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• The tumor microenvironment (TME) significantly influences cancer progression, metastasis, and treatment response.
• Stromal cells within the TME are emerging as critical targets for anticancer therapeutics.
• Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) present a complex role in cancer, with their therapeutic application debated due to context-dependent effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted role of human-derived normal MSCs in anticancer therapies.
• To discuss the application of different MSC subtypes in treating various cancers.
• To elucidate the anticancer mechanisms and clinical potential of MSCs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on human MSCs and their interactions within the TME.
• Analysis of studies investigating MSCs in different cancer types and conditions (in vitro/in vivo).
• Examination of MSC-secreted factors and their impact on cancer cells and host immune cells.

Main Results:

• The efficacy of MSCs as anticancer agents is highly variable, influenced by MSC subtype, experimental conditions, secreted factors, cancer type, and cellular interactions.
• Human MSCs exhibit diverse roles, potentially promoting or inhibiting tumor growth depending on the specific context.
• Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for harnessing MSCs effectively in cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

• Human MSCs hold promise for anticancer therapies, but careful consideration of their context-specific functions is essential.
• Further research into MSC mechanisms and clinical applications is needed to optimize their use in oncology.
• Tailoring MSC-based strategies to specific cancer types and patient profiles may enhance therapeutic outcomes.