Mesenchymal stem cell: Basic research and potential applications in cattle and buffalo

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Regenerative Medicine
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Stem cells (SCs) possess self-renewal, differentiation, and immunomodulatory properties, making them promising for clinical applications.
• Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely studied due to accessibility and safety, with potential for treating various conditions.
• Research on large ruminant MSCs (cattle and buffalo) has primarily focused on production potential, with limited exploration of their broader therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status and potential applications of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in cattle and buffalo.
• To identify knowledge gaps and future research directions for MSCs in large ruminants.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies on cattle and buffalo MSCs.
• Analysis of MSC characteristics, including self-renewal, differentiation, and immunomodulatory functions.
• Evaluation of current and potential clinical applications of MSCs in large ruminants.

Main Results:

• Large ruminant MSCs are well-characterized in vitro from various tissues and fetal membranes.
• In vivo studies predominantly focus on enhancing production traits rather than therapeutic applications.
• Understanding of MSC behavior in culture and the in vivo microenvironment remains limited, restricting clinical translation.

Conclusions:

• Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold significant therapeutic potential for cattle and buffalo, extending beyond production enhancement.
• Further in vivo research is crucial to elucidate MSC behavior and efficacy for clinical applications in large ruminants.
• Bridging the knowledge gap in MSC physiology and microenvironmental interactions is essential for advancing their use in veterinary medicine.