Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Organ Regeneration: From Laboratory to Clinical Application

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells capable of differentiating into a variety of cell types including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Over the past two decades, MSCs have emerged as one of the most promising tools in regenerative medicine due to their remarkable ability to promote tissue repair, modulate immune responses, and secrete bioactive molecules that support organ regeneration. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that MSCs can improve the functional recovery of multiple organs, including the heart, liver, kidney, and lungs. In laboratory models, MSCs have been shown to reduce inflammation, enhance angiogenesis, and replace damaged cells, highlighting their therapeutic potential in a wide range of degenerative and injury-related conditions.The transition from laboratory research to clinical application has been facilitated by advances in cell culture, tissue engineering, and delivery methods. Clinical trials have explored MSC-based therapies for myocardial infarction, liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, and pulmonary disorders, with many reporting improvements in organ function, tissue structure, and patient quality of life. Despite these promising results, challenges remain in terms of cell source selection, standardization of isolation and expansion techniques, and ensuring the safety and long-term efficacy of MSC therapies. In summary, MSCs offer tremendous potential in organ repair and regeneration, bridging basic research and translational medicine. Understanding the mechanisms by which MSCs interact with host tissues and immune cells will be essential for optimizing clinical protocols. Continued exploration of their mechanisms, combined with rigorous clinical evaluation, may lead to effective, safe, and widely accessible regenerative therapies that can transform the treatment of organ failure and injury.This Topic will focus on but not limited to• Investigating the role of MSCs in enhancing angiogenesis and vascularization during organ repair.• Exploring MSC-derived exosomes and secretome for paracrine-mediated regenerative effects.• Optimizing MSC delivery methods and tissue scaffolds for improved engraftment and survival.• Studying the immunomodulatory functions of MSCs in inflammatory and autoimmune organ injuries.• Genetic and epigenetic modification of MSCs to enhance differentiation potential and therapeutic efficacy.• Evaluating MSC-based combination therapies with growth factors, biomaterials, or pharmacological agents.• Conducting clinical trials to assess long-term safety, efficacy, and functional outcomes in organ regeneration. Topic editors: Marika Quadri, Serena Barachini, Stefania Bruno Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/76136/mesenchymal-stem-cells-in-organ-regeneration-from-laboratory-to-clinical-application