Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

In recent 10 years, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells implantation for ischemic heart failure after myocardial infarction was repeatedly inspected in numerous clinical trials. Stem cells can be transferred and proliferate in the infarcted myocardium, differentiate into cardiomyocytes or help cardiac stem cells regeneration by paracrine mechanism. This fascinating strategy has been proved a safe and effective method to help myocardial repair and increasing impaired heart systolic function. However, the efficacy is not so much satisfactory. In clinical trials, we are now informed about the timing, dosage and methods of delivery of mesenchymal stem cells administration. But we are not clear about patient selection (acute or chronic) and improvement of long-term major cardiovascular outcomes. In basic researches, biochemical modifications of mesenchymal stem cells have greatly increased its in vivo retention, proliferation and differentiation abilities. However, these applications have not been test integrated in clinical trials. Further efforts should be done to move this strategy from bench to bedside.