Deepening a Simple Question: Can MSCs Be Used to Treat Cancer?
Juliana P A Gomes1, Amanda F Assoni1, Mayra Pelatti1
1Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, Biosciences Institute, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Abstract:
In cancer, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have been considered as vehicles for targeted delivery of drugs due to their inherent tropism toward primary and metastatic tumors. However, it is still unclear whether MSCs could be therapeutically explored without significant harm, since a great amound of evidence indicates that MSCs are able to exert both tumor-suppressive and pro-oncogenic effects. Here, we discuss how MSCs might adopt a pro- or anti-inflammatory profile in response to changes within the tumor microenvironment and how these features may lead to opposite outcomes in tumor development. Additionally, we address how differences in experimental design might impact interpretation and consistency of the current literature in this specific field. Finally, we point-out critical issues to be addressed at a pre-clinical stage, regarding safety and therapeutic effectiveness of MSCs application in cancer treatment.
Insights
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) show potential for cancer drug delivery but have dual effects. Their therapeutic use requires careful evaluation of safety and efficacy due to context-dependent tumor promotion or suppression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) possess tumor-homing properties, making them attractive for targeted cancer drug delivery.
- Evidence suggests MSCs can exhibit both tumor-suppressive and pro-oncogenic effects, creating therapeutic uncertainty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the dual role of MSCs in cancer, focusing on their inflammatory profiles and impact on tumor development.
- To analyze how experimental design variations influence the interpretation of MSCs' effects in cancer research.
- To identify critical pre-clinical considerations for the safe and effective therapeutic application of MSCs in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on MSCs in cancer.
- Analysis of factors influencing MSCs' pro- or anti-tumorigenic behavior within the tumor microenvironment.
- Discussion of experimental design elements impacting MSC research outcomes.
Main Results:
- MSCs can adopt pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotypes based on the tumor microenvironment, leading to opposing effects on tumor progression.
- Inconsistencies in current literature may stem from variations in experimental methodologies and designs.
- The safety and therapeutic efficacy of MSCs in cancer treatment require rigorous pre-clinical assessment.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the context-dependent behavior of MSCs is crucial for their potential use in cancer therapy.
- Standardizing experimental approaches is necessary for consistent and reliable MSC research in oncology.
- Further pre-clinical investigation is essential to optimize MSC-based cancer treatments and mitigate risks.
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