Clinical-grade mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord improve septic shock in pigs

Background Septic shock is the leading cause of death in intensive care units. The pathophysiological complexity of this syndrome contributes to an absence of specific treatment. Several preclinical studies in murine models of septic shock have shown improvements to organ injury and survival after administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). To better mimic a clinical approach in humans, we investigated the impact of randomized controlled double-blind administration of clinical-grade umbilical cord-derived MSCs to a relevant pig model of septic shock.