Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Voiding Dysfunction

Abstract

Lower urinary tract symptoms can significantly impact quality of life. Current standard treatments are not always effective and are associated with complications and side effects. The discovery of stem cells led to research into cell-based therapies for treatment of disorders of voiding dysfunction. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells are particularly promising given their ability to differentiate into a variety of cell types. Recent studies have investigated bone marrow stem cells to treat a number of functional voiding pathologies including bladder outlet obstruction, neurogenic bladder, and stress urinary incontinence. Experiments in tissue regeneration have also attempted to create artificial bladders and urethras. The purpose of this article is to critically review the literature regarding the use of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in treatment of voiding dysfunction.

Surgery for urinary incontinence in women: Report from the 6th international consultation on incontinence

“…The use of stem cell modalities for the treatment of urinary incontinence and bladder dysfunction has been proposed for more than a decade . Six common cell types that have been evaluated for treatment of female SUI inclusive of embryonic, muscle derived (satellite cells), bone marrow derived, mesenchymal, adipose (ASCs), and urinary and human umbilical cord blood types. Also human amniotic fluid stem cells (hAFSCs) have been proposed as an alternative source, and, while other potential stem cell sources do exist in mammalian systems, they have yet to be studied extensively for SUI.…”

Stress urinary incontinence in women: Current and emerging therapeutic options

“…20,21 Classically, multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from bone marrow stroma and skeletal muscle-derived cells (including myoblasts, muscle-derived stem cells [MDSCs], and fibroblasts) were the most investigated for their therapeutic application in SUI. Researchers continue to identify novel sources of stem cells for urological application, such as adipose-derived regenerative cells, umbilical cord blood stem cells, urine-derived stem cells, and total nucleated cells (TNCs) and platelets.…”