Cells (May 2024)

Emerging Strategies in Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Cardiovascular Therapeutics

  • Rishabh Kumar,
  • Nitin Mishra,
  • Talan Tran,
  • Munish Kumar,
  • Sivakumar Vijayaraghavalu,
  • Narasimman Gurusamy

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13100855
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 10
p. 855

Abstract

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Cardiovascular diseases continue to challenge global health, demanding innovative therapeutic solutions. This review delves into the transformative role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in advancing cardiovascular therapeutics. Beginning with a historical perspective, we trace the development of stem cell research related to cardiovascular diseases, highlighting foundational therapeutic approaches and the evolution of cell-based treatments. Recognizing the inherent challenges of MSC-based cardiovascular therapeutics, which range from understanding the pro-reparative activity of MSCs to tailoring patient-specific treatments, we emphasize the need to refine the pro-regenerative capacity of these cells. Crucially, our focus then shifts to the strategies of the fourth generation of cell-based therapies: leveraging the secretomic prowess of MSCs, particularly the role of extracellular vesicles; integrating biocompatible scaffolds and artificial sheets to amplify MSCs’ potential; adopting three-dimensional ex vivo propagation tailored to specific tissue niches; harnessing the promise of genetic modifications for targeted tissue repair; and institutionalizing good manufacturing practice protocols to ensure therapeutic safety and efficacy. We conclude with reflections on these advancements, envisaging a future landscape redefined by MSCs in cardiovascular regeneration. This review offers both a consolidation of our current understanding and a view toward imminent therapeutic horizons.

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