Mesenchymal stem cell transfusion: Possible beneficial effects in COVID-19 patients

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 attaches to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor on human cells. The virus causes hypercytokinemia, capillary leak, pulmonary edema, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute cardiac injury, and leads to death. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ACE-2 negative cells; therefore, can escape from SARS-CoV-2. MSCs prevent hypercytokinemia and help the resolution of the pulmonary edema and other damages occurred during the course of COVID-19. In addition, MSCs enhance the regeneration of the lung and other tissues affected by SARS-CoV-2. The case series reported beneficial effect of MSCs in COVID-19 treatment. However, there are some concerns about the safety of MSCs, particularly referring to the increased risk of disseminated intravascular coagulation, and thromboembolism due to the expression of TF/CD142. Prospective, randomized, large scale studies are needed to reveal the optimum dose, administration way, time, efficacy, and safety of MSCs in the COVID-19 treatment.

Advancements in engineered mesenchymal stem cell exosomes for chronic lung disease treatment

“…In lung diseases, this risk primarily manifests as acute pulmonary thromboembolism. Additionally, due to the multidirectional differentiation potential of MSCs, the instability of MSC traits and phenotypes increases during long-term culture, necessitating more stringent standards in commercialization models [ 9 , 10 ]. Moreover, MSCs face challenges when penetrating human physiological barriers such as the blood‒brain barrier and the blood‒testis barrier.…”