Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to reduce inflammation in the heart through several mechanisms:
Secretion of anti-inflammatory molecules: MSCs can secrete various anti-inflammatory molecules, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). These molecules inhibit the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation.
Suppression of immune cell activity: MSCs can inhibit the activity of immune cells, such as T cells and B cells, that contribute to inflammation in the heart.
Modulation of macrophage polarization: MSCs can regulate macrophage polarization, which is important for inflammatory responses. They can induce macrophages to adopt a pro-resolving (anti-inflammatory) phenotype, which further reduces inflammation.
Reduce oxidative stress: MSCs can also reduce oxidative stress, which is a key contributor to inflammation in the heart. They can scavenge free radicals and promote antioxidant defense mechanisms, reducing the inflammatory response.
Overall, MSCs have demonstrated their ability to reduce inflammation in the heart through complex mechanisms that target various aspects of the inflammatory response. The most amazing thing is that the stem cells know where to send exosomes with the needed cytokines, chemokines and trophic factors needed to guide the healing. Without this precision delivery service the exosomes would just be free floating and have little therapeutic effect. MSCs are like your bodies own emergency medical team that responds appropriately to the environment and sends out the correct signals to guide healing.
