Mechanisms of action of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in lung emphysema

Schipper, M.C. (2017) Mechanisms of action of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in lung emphysema. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a progressive respiratory condition and a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Emphysema is characterized by loss of alveolar structure and destruction of the extracellular matrix, resulting in irreversible enlargement of alveolar spaces. Although various treatment options for COPD exist, none has been found to repair or reverse emphysematous destruction of the lung. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have however been identified as a novel possible strategy for the treatment of emphysema in COPD patients. Although MSC therapy in animal studies has showed promising results concerning reparation of alveolar epithelial damage, no beneficial effects of MSCs in human clinical trials have been observed yet. Therefore, this review provides an overview of our current knowledge of the molecular pathogenesis of emphysema and aims to investigate the characteristics and mechanisms of action of MSCs necessary in order to restore or regenerate alveolar epithelial damage in emphysema. In addition, this review attempts to explore the reasons behind the lack of significant results of MSC therapy in COPD patients, in contrast to promising animal studies.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	15 Feb 2018 08:30
Last Modified:	15 Feb 2018 08:30
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/15615

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