Mesenchymal stem cell perspective: cell biology to clinical progress

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Immunology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent progenitor cells, also known as multipotential stromal cells or mesenchymal progenitor cells.
• First isolated ~30 years ago, MSC research has expanded significantly, with over 55,000 publications.
• Human MSCs exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory functions, driving current clinical interest.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding and applications of human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
• To highlight the therapeutic potential and ongoing clinical investigations of MSCs.
• To identify future research directions for MSCs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
• Focus on human MSCs and their properties.
• Analysis of data from over 950 ongoing clinical trials.

Main Results:

• MSCs possess broad anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties.
• MSCs can differentiate into various cell lineages in vitro and in vivo.
• Extensive clinical trials (over 950) are investigating MSCs for medical utility.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in understanding MSCs, with a strong foundation for future research.
• Further research into intracellular/intercellular signaling, bioengineering, delivery, and patient selection is crucial for advancing MSC applications.
• While promising for cellular therapy, continued careful research is needed to fully unlock MSC potential.