Cell- and tissue-based therapies for lung disease

Abstract Because of the lung’s complex structure, cell-based treatments for pulmonary disorders face significant technical challenges. Current therapeutic goals span a spectrum of expectations that includes (1) protection from acute or chronic injury and regeneration of functional lung after injury, (2) replacement of tissue or cells affected by congenital malformations, inherited or acquired diseases, (3) provision of cells or cell products enhancing repair, and (4) introduction of cells expressing therapeutic molecules for local or systemic delivery. This chapter reviews concepts derived from recent studies related to lung morphogenesis, stem cells, and tissue engineering. The interpretation of concepts developed in the study of tissue engineering and stem cell biology are highly relevant to the development of future therapies for pulmonary diseases.