The Use of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019

The document from September 21, 2020, reviewed the potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in treating COVID-19, particularly for severe cases like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It highlighted the immunomodulatory and regenerative properties of MSCs, which could help reduce ARDS severity and duration. The review mentioned that nearly 70 clinical trials were investigating MSCs for COVID-19 treatment. It also discussed genetic factors associated with COVID-19 severity, other potential treatments, and the urgent need for effective treatments in the absence of a vaccine at that time. Clinical studies showed promising results, with one involving 17 patients with influenza-induced ARDS treated with MSCs resulting in a significantly reduced fatality rate compared to controls, and another pilot study treating seven COVID-19 patients with MSCs showing clinical improvement. The document concluded that while MSCs show potential and early studies are optimistic, more robust and controlled trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness in treating COVID-19.