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Apoptotic MSCs and MSC-Derived Apoptotic Bodies as New Therapeutic Tools

Irina V Kholodenko1, Roman V Kholodenko2, Alexander G Majouga3

  • 1Laboratory of Cell Biology, Orekhovich Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia.

Current Issues in Molecular Biology
|November 10, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show therapeutic promise, but mechanisms remain unclear. Apoptotic MSCs and their derived bodies mediate effects via efferocytosis, offering insights into MSC therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) demonstrate therapeutic potential in preclinical and clinical studies.
  • The precise mechanisms driving MSC therapeutic efficacy and regenerative potential are not fully understood.
  • Transplanted MSCs can undergo apoptosis and clearance while retaining therapeutic effects, particularly immunomodulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent data on apoptotic MSCs and MSC-derived apoptotic bodies (MSC-ApoBDs).
  • To explore the functions and therapeutic mechanisms of apoptotic MSCs and MSC-ApoBDs.
  • To discuss MSC-generated extracellular vesicles involved in therapeutic functions.

Main Methods:

  • Concise review of existing literature.
  • Focus on recent findings regarding apoptotic MSCs and MSC-ApoBDs.
  • Analysis of efferocytosis as a mechanism for MSC therapeutic effects.

Main Results:

  • Apoptotic MSCs and MSC-ApoBDs can mediate therapeutic effects, especially immunomodulatory ones.
  • Efferocytosis of apoptotic MSCs by host phagocytic cells is a key mechanism.
  • MSC-derived extracellular vesicles, including apoptotic bodies, are crucial for therapeutic functions.

Conclusions:

  • Apoptotic MSCs and their derived extracellular vesicles, particularly MSC-ApoBDs, play a significant role in MSC-based therapy.
  • Understanding efferocytosis and vesicle-mediated mechanisms is vital for optimizing MSC therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research into these mechanisms can enhance the predictability and efficacy of MSC treatments.
Keywords:
MSC-based therapyapoptosisapoptotic bodiesextracellular vesiclesimmunomodulationmesenchymal stem/stromal cellsprogrammed cell death

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