Mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition resulting in the formation of fibrofatty plaques within the intimal layer of arterial walls. The identification of resident stem cells in the vascular wall has led to significant investigation into their contributions to health and disease, as well as their therapeutic potential. Of these, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the most widely studied in human clinical trials, which have demonstrated a modulatory role in vascular physiology and disease. This review highlights the most recent knowledge surrounding the cell biology of MSCs, including their origin, identification markers and differentiation potential. The limitations concerning the implementation of MSC therapy are considered and novel solutions to overcome these are proposed. Mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to have paracrine effects that affect the onset and progression of atherosclerotic disease. Notable protective effects include a reduction in serum lipids, plaque size and endothelial dysfunction, as well as an increase in plaque stability and overall anti-inflammatory immunomodulation. Created with .