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

Yiğenoğlu T. N., Başcı S., Şahin D., Ulaş T., Dal M. S., Korkmaz S., ...More

Transfusion and Apheresis Science, vol.60, no.6, 2021 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 60 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.transci.2021.103237
  • Journal Name: Transfusion and Apheresis Science
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: Mesenchymal stem cell, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Transfusion, Transplantation
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: No

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.