Auxiliary role of mesenchymal stem cells as regenerative medicine soldiers to attenuate inﬂammatory processes of severe acute respiratory infections caused by COVID-19

Cell Tissue Bank, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10561-020-09842-3 · Published: June 25, 2020

Simple Explanation

Acute respiratory infections are a major cause of illness and death worldwide. Coronaviruses, including the novel 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19), can cause these infections. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown promise in treating various diseases due to their ability to reduce inflammation and repair damaged tissues. This review focuses on the potential of MSCs to help reduce the inflammatory processes in severe acute respiratory infections caused by COVID-19.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
MSCs can regulate the proliferation and activation of immune cells and differentiate into type II alveolar epithelial cells, which are crucial for lung function.
2
MSCs release factors like prostaglandin E2 and transforming growth factor beta, which help to suppress inflammation and promote tissue repair in the lungs.
3
MSCs can transfer mitochondria to damaged alveolar epithelium, increase the concentration of alveolar ATP, regenerate alveolar bioenergy, and ﬁnally lead to ameliorating function of the lung.

Research Summary

COVID-19, characterized by severe acute respiratory infections (ARIs), poses a significant global health challenge, with no specific treatment available to date beyond symptom relief. The excessive immune response in COVID-19 can lead to a cytokine storm, causing organ damage, ARDS, and ultimately death; preventing this cytokine storm is crucial in treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer a promising therapeutic strategy by repairing lung tissue, releasing paracrine factors that modulate immune cells, and regenerating alveolar bioenergy.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategy

MSCs represent a potential therapeutic strategy for severe ARIs in COVID-19 cases, warranting further investigation.

Future Research

More research is needed to optimize the use of MSCs, including determining the best route and dose of administration.

Diagnostic Development

Development of new diagnostic techniques based on molecular science and OMICS technology can assist better treatment of COVID-19.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of specific treatment and vaccine for COVID-19.
2
Need for more investigations with a long follow-up period to increase the therapeutic outcome of MSCs
3
Limited understanding of inter-individual genetic diversity and species-specific responses to MSCs.

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