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Mesenchymal stem cells and immune disorders: from basic science to clinical transition
Shihua Wang1,2,3,4, Rongjia Zhu1,2,3,4, Hongling Li1,2,3,4
1Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100005, China.
Frontiers of Medicine
|August 1, 2018
Summary
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show promise for treating immune disorders due to their immunomodulatory properties. This review explores MSCs
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Immunology
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising cell type for regenerative medicine.
- Their immunomodulatory capacity makes them attractive for treating immune disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge and advances in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
- To propose novel concepts regarding MSCs: the "subtotipotent stem cell" hypothesis, MSC system, and "Yin and Yang" balance of MSC regulation.
- To analyze clinical trials using MSCs for immune diseases and discuss future directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of MSC basic biological properties (differentiation, secretome, immunomodulation).
- Analysis of clinical trial data from http://clinicaltrials.gov for immune diseases treated with MSCs.
- Review of MSC clinical trials conducted in China.
Main Results:
- MSCs possess multilineage differentiation, a regulatory secretome, and significant immunomodulatory functions.
- Three new concepts are proposed: "subtotipotent stem cell" hypothesis, MSC system, and "Yin and Yang" balance of MSC regulation.
- Clinical trials are underway for graft-versus-host disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis, with a notable focus in China.
Conclusions:
- MSCs hold significant therapeutic potential for immune disorders.
- Novel conceptual frameworks may deepen the understanding of MSC biology and application.
- Further research and clinical trials are essential to overcome challenges and advance MSC-based therapies.
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