The Therapeutic Promise of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Liver Restoration

Hepatocyte transplantation aims to provide a functional substitution of liver tissue lost due to trauma or toxins. Chronic liver diseases are associated with inflammation, deterioration of tissue homeostasis, and deprivation of metabolic capacity. Recent advances in liver biology have focused on the pro-regenerative features of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). We argue that MSCs represent an attractive therapeutic option to treat liver disease. Indeed, their pleiotropic actions include the modulation of immune reactions, the stimulation of cell proliferation, and the attenuation of cell death responses. These characteristics are highly warranted add-ons to their capacity for hepatocyte differentiation. Undoubtedly, the elucidation of the regenerative mechanisms of MSCs in different liver diseases will promote their versatile and disease-specific therapeutic use.

TrendsMany patients waiting for a liver transplant die because of severe donor liver scarcity. Hepatocyte transplantation is an alternative to liver transplantation given that donor cells have the potential to provide functional restoration of the organ.Functional hepatocytes may be generated through stem cell differentiation. Adult MSCs may be suitable because of their easy availability and minor ethical burden.MSCs, either differentiated or undifferentiated, harbor anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative properties. These features are desirable in treating liver diseases, and MSCs have potential to alleviate tissue inflammation and damage.MSCs release paracrine factors needed for functional liver restoration and, from a clinical standpoint, hold great promise in the treatment of both acute and chronic liver diseases.However, before clinical use, the risks of using MSCs to treat liver diseases must be properly assessed; for instance, the possible induction of fibrosis or tumors by MSCs needs to be ruled out.