Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Old Tool to Improve Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Outcome

Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Old Tool to Improve Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Outcome

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a subpopulation of multipotent stem cells that exhibit a capacity to support hematopoiesis, play an immunomodulatory function and differentiate into different mesodermal tissues helping tissue repair. MSCs can be isolated and ex-vivo expanded from different tissues. Co-infusion of MSCs with hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) might have a positive effect on engraftment and graft versus host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis and management. However, the technique used for isolation and exvivo expansion needs to be both optimized as well as standardized to ensure the best outcome. In this review we will try to revise the clinical experience with collecting, expanding and utilizing MSCs in the setup of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).