Stem cells as an option for the treatment of COVID-19

Abstract

The application of stem cells is among the many strategies currently available for the treatment of multiple diseases. Stem cells are characterized as undifferentiated cells that have the ability to differentiate towards multiple lineages and selfrenewal, among other attributes. Since the first umbilical cord stem cell transplant for the treatment of Fanconi anemia, the use of stem cells for the treatment of multiple diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019, has increased, showing promising results that require evaluation through research studies that include a longer follow-up time. Therefore, the main objective of this Letter is to provide an update on the use of stem cells in the treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, as well as identify the main challenges and limitations presented by this type of therapy.