Mesenchymal stromal cell infusion modulates systemic immunological responses in stable COPD patients: a phase I pilot study

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality due to limited therapeutic options for the persistent pulmonary and systemic inflammation that characterises this condition [1]. Recently, pre-clinical studies of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in COPD demonstrate efficacy in alleviating inflammation and reducing emphysema following either systemic or intra-tracheal administration [2, 3]. Human trials have demonstrated that MSCs did not improve spirometry following their administration to COPD patients; however, it was reported that C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for systemic inflammation, was reduced 1–3 months after infusion. Earlier time-points were not assessed in detail in these trials, which limits further investigation of these changes [4, 5]. Identifying the fate of intravenously infused MSCs and the potential implications of their biodistribution, as well as short-term MSC-induced systemic changes that were not explored in previous trials will better delineate the utility of MSC treatment for COPD.

Source: European Respiratory Journal - March 1, 2018 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Armitage, J., Tan, D. B. A., Troedson, R., Young, P., Lam, K.-v., Shaw, K., Sturm, M., Weiss, D. J., Moodley, Y. P. Tags: Original Articles: Research letters Source Type: research