Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Skin Aging and Damage: Insights from Recent Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Abstract

Purpose of Review: As interest in healthy lifestyles and youthfulness grows, anti-aging research has become increasingly popular among healthcare professionals and scientists. Skin aging and damage is a complex and multifactorial process influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and their derivatives show promise as therapeutic candidates due to their regenerative properties. This review explores the etiology and pathophysiology of skin aging and damage, along with the potential of MSCs and MSC-based products in its treatment. Recent Findings: Recent studies have highlighted the ability of MSCs and their derivatives to enhance skin regeneration through paracrine signaling, extracellular vesicle (EV) release and direct cellular differentiation. MSC-based therapies have demonstrated efficacy in enhancing skin elasticity, reducing oxidative stress and regulating inflammatory responses. Moreover, advances in bioengineering such as MSC-derived EVs, exosomes, secretome, whole cells and conditioned media, have further expanded their clinical potential. Summary: MSC-based therapies offer significant potential in anti-aging treatments by addressing key aging factors. Nevertheless while preclinical and clinical studies have shown positive outcomes future research must include studies with standardized procedures and large sample sizes to confirm their safety and efficacy.