Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Abstract

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a common pathological feature of acute and chronic inflammatory lung diseases that currently has no effective clinical treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered to be an ideal cell source for regenerating injured tissues, as they are easily extracted and expanded, have a limited risk of tumorigenicity, and lack immunogenicity. Recently, MSC-based therapies have been suggested as potential therapeutic strategies for attenuating PF. Although the administration of MSCs has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in PF, further studies are required to optimize the MSC source and dose, delivery time, and route of administration to improve their protective effects. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying MSC-based therapies for PF remain elusive. Here, we review recently published data on MSC administration for the treatment of PF to provide insights into the therapeutic impact of MSC delivery procedures and sources. In addition, we discuss the potential mechanisms underlying the effects of MSC administration on PF and highlight promising strategies for improving the beneficial effects of MSCs.

Keywords: mesenchymal stem cell; paracrine; pulmonary fibrosis; transdifferentiation.