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Stem Cell-Based Strategies for Fibrotic and Neurogenic Bladder Disorders: Current Evidence, Translational Challenges,
Jae Heon Kim1, Miho Song1, Yun Seob Song1
1Department of Urology, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Seoul 140-743, Republic of Korea.
Current Issues in Molecular Biology
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) show promise for treating bladder fibrosis and dysfunction. Studies explored MRI tracking and engineered MSCs for conditions like bladder outlet obstruction and spinal cord injury, highlighting regenerative potential.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Urology
- Cell-based Therapies
Background:
- Bladder fibrosis and detrusor dysfunction are common in disorders like bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) and spinal cord injury (SCI).
- Current therapies offer symptomatic relief but do not reverse fibrosis or restore bladder homeostasis.
- Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) possess antifibrotic, immunomodulatory, and trophic properties, making them promising therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review six key studies on MSC-based regenerative medicine for bladder disorders.
- To contextualize these findings within the broader literature on cell sources, delivery, mechanisms, and clinical translation.
- To identify translational challenges in developing cell-based advanced therapy medicinal products for bladder conditions.
Main Methods:
- Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)-based molecular MRI tracking of transplanted human MSCs (hMSCs).
- Therapeutic interventions using SPIO-hMSCs and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-overexpressing hMSCs (B10.HGF) in BOO and SCI models.
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of stem cell therapy effects on urodynamic outcomes in SCI models.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated feasibility of MRI tracking for transplanted hMSCs in the bladder.
- Showcased therapeutic benefits of SPIO-hMSC and B10.HGF therapies in BOO and SCI models, improving bladder function.
- Meta-analysis confirmed positive effects of stem cell therapy on urodynamic outcomes in SCI.
Conclusions:
- MSC-based therapies, including engineered cells and MRI-guided approaches, hold significant potential for treating bladder fibrosis and dysfunction.
- Further research is needed to address product standardization, long-term durability, and mechanism-linked potency assays for clinical translation.
- These studies contribute to the evolving landscape of cell-based advanced therapy medicinal products for bladder regenerative medicine.
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