Mesenchymal stem cells and prostate cancer: A concise review of therapeutic potentials and biological aspects

[Display omitted] •The multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are expected to activate apoptosis-related signaling pathways to restrict cancer cell proliferation and division.•The inherent tumor-tropic and migratory properties of MSCs make them act as targeted drug-delivery vehicles for isolated tumors and metastatic diseases.•MSCs are utilized for cell-based and intracellular suicide gene therapy, as well as carrying anti-cancer drug loaded nanoparticles, pre-drugs, and nanovesicles. Prostate cancer (PCa) arises from a cancer stem or progenitor cell with homogenous characteristics, especially among the aging men population. Over the past decade, the increasing PCa incidence has led to significant changes in both disease diagnosis and treatment. Recently, the therapeutic aspects of stem cells in many cancers, including PCa, have been debatable. The new generation of PCa studies seek to present definitive treatments with reduced therapeutic side effects. Since discovering unique properties of stem cells in modulating immunity, selective migration to inflammatory regions, and secretion of various growth factors, they have been a promising therapeutic target. The existing properties of stem cell therapy bring new opportunities for cancer inhibition: transferring chemotherapeutics, activating prodrugs, affecting the expression of genes involved in cancer, genetically modifying the production of anti-cancer compounds, proteins, and/or deriving extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing therapeutic agents from stem cells. However, their dual properties in carcinogenicity as well as their ability to inhibit cancer result in particular limitations studying them after administration. A clear understanding of the interaction between MSCs and the prostate cancer microenvironment will provide crucial information in revealing the precise applications and new practical protocols for clinical use of these cells..