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Current Status of Cell-Based Therapies for COVID-19: Evidence From Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Sepsis and ARDS
Zhiheng Xu1,2, Yongbo Huang1,2, Jianmeng Zhou3
1State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
Abstract:
The severe respiratory consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have prompted the urgent need for novel therapies. Cell-based therapies, primarily using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), have demonstrated safety and potential efficacy in the treatment of critical illness, particularly sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, there are limited preclinical data for MSCs in COVID-19. Recent studies have shown that MSCs could decrease inflammation, improve lung permeability, enhance microbe and alveolar fluid clearance, and promote lung epithelial and endothelial repair. In addition, MSC-based therapy has shown promising effects in preclinical studies and phase 1 clinical trials in sepsis and ARDS. Here, we review recent advances related to MSC-based therapy in the context of sepsis and ARDS and evaluate the potential value of MSCs as a therapeutic strategy for COVID-19.
Insights
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) show promise for treating critical respiratory illnesses like COVID-19. These cell therapies may reduce inflammation and repair lung damage, offering a potential new treatment strategy.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates novel therapeutic approaches for severe respiratory complications.
- Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are being investigated for critical illnesses, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
- Existing preclinical data on MSCs for COVID-19 are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in MSC-based therapy for sepsis and ARDS.
- To evaluate the potential therapeutic value of MSCs for COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on MSC therapy in sepsis and ARDS.
- Analysis of preclinical data and clinical trial outcomes for MSCs in related respiratory conditions.
Main Results:
- MSCs demonstrate potential to reduce inflammation and improve lung permeability.
- MSCs can enhance the clearance of microbes and alveolar fluid.
- MSC therapy has shown positive effects in preclinical models and early-phase clinical trials for sepsis and ARDS.
Conclusions:
- MSCs possess properties beneficial for treating lung injury and inflammation.
- MSC-based therapy warrants further investigation as a potential treatment for COVID-19.
- Continued research is crucial to establish the efficacy and safety of MSCs for COVID-19 patients.
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