How to enhance MSCs therapeutic properties? An insight on potentiation methods

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising tool in the field of regenerative medicine due to their unique therapeutic properties as they can differentiate into multiple cell types and exert paracrine effects. However, despite encouraging results obtained in preclinical studies, clinical trials have not achieved the same levels of efficacy. To improve the therapeutic properties of MSCs, several strategies have been explored. Therefore, in this review, the therapeutic properties of MSCs will be analyzed, and an update and overview of the most prominent approaches used to enhance their therapeutic capabilities will be provided. These approaches include using drugs, molecules, strategies based on biomaterials, and modification parameters in culture. The strategy described shows several common factors among those affected by these strategies that lead to an enhancement of the MSCs therapeutic properties such as the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway and the increased expression of Heat Shock Proteins and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor. The combined effect of these elements shift MSCs towards a glycolytic state, suggesting this shift is essential for their enhancement. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.)