Review
Mesenchymal stem cell transfusion: Possible beneficial effects in COVID-19 patients

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.transci.2021.103237Get rights and content

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 attaches to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor on human cells. The virus causes hypercytokinemia, capillary leak, pulmonary edema, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute cardiac injury, and leads to death. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ACE-2 negative cells; therefore, can escape from SARS-CoV-2. MSCs prevent hypercytokinemia and help the resolution of the pulmonary edema and other damages occurred during the course of COVID-19. In addition, MSCs enhance the regeneration of the lung and other tissues affected by SARS-CoV-2. The case series reported beneficial effect of MSCs in COVID-19 treatment. However, there are some concerns about the safety of MSCs, particularly referring to the increased risk of disseminated intravascular coagulation, and thromboembolism due to the expression of TF/CD142. Prospective, randomized, large scale studies are needed to reveal the optimum dose, administration way, time, efficacy, and safety of MSCs in the COVID-19 treatment.

Abbreviations

ARDS
acute respiratory distress syndrome
ACE-2
angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
CoV
coronavirus
CFR
case fatality rate
DIC
disseminated intravascular coagulation
GVHD
graft versus host disease
MSC
mesenchymal stem cell
MERS-CoV
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus
SARS-CoV
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus

Keywords

Mesenchymal stem cell
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Transfusion
Transplantation

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