Mesenchymal stem cell as a novel approach to systemic sclerosis; current status and future perspectives

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis is a rare chronic autoimmune disease with extensive microvascular injury, damage of endothelial cells, activation of immune responses, and progression of tissue fibrosis in the skin and various internal organs. According to epidemiological data, women’s populations are more susceptible to systemic sclerosis than men. Until now, various therapeutic options are employed to manage the symptoms of the disease. Since stem cell-based treatments have developed as a novel approach to rescue from several autoimmune diseases, it seems that stem cells, especially mesenchymal stem cells as a powerful regenerative tool can also be advantageous for systemic sclerosis treatment via their remarkable properties including immunomodulatory and anti-fibrotic effects. Accordingly, we discuss the contemporary status and future perspectives of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation for systemic sclerosis.