Genetic improvement of human mesenchymal cells: biotechnological fundamentals and clinical applications in chronic diseases

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated promising therapeutic effects due to their immunological properties, including anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory and immunosuppressive capabilities. Studies have shown that the therapeutic potential of MSCs can be enhanced through genetic modification. In this context, several genetic approaches have been used to rejuvenate senescent cells, improve cell survival, increase migration and homing, and adhesion to target sites. This work aimed to analyze the biotechnological foundations applied to the genetic improvement of human mesenchymal stem cells and their potential clinical applications in the treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases. The study is characterized as an integrative literature review of articles based on MSC therapeutics. Bibliographic searches were performed in the PubMed database. This investigation allowed observing the different protocols employed in preclinical and clinical studies using modified MSCs in cell therapy for chronic non-communicable diseases. Although promising results have been observed, limitations, understanding of safety, bioavailability and efficacy still need to be better evaluated.