Gene-modified mesenchymal stromal cells: A VIP experience

Abstract

Administration of ex vivo expanded mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) represent a promising therapy for degenerative and inflammatory/autoimmune diseases. Indeed, mouse MSCs (mMSCs) and human MSCs (hMSCs) have shown very promising results in animal models for multiple diseases due to their trophic and immunomodulatory activities. However, human clinical trials have not reached the success found in preclinical models. The general consensus is that, for most applications, we should increase the "therapeutic potency" of MSCs before translation into clinic. This goal can be achieved by increasing/improving the migration, engraftment, differentiation and immunomodulatory activities of the MSCs. The present article summarizes some of the approaches that use gene-modified MSCs (GM-MSC) for the treatment of different disorders. We will also discuss our experience using GM-MSCs expressing vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.Rec.5/29/2014, Acc.9/2/2014, pp176-183