MSCs for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Recent experimental findings and clinical trials have shown the ability of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to home to damaged tissues and to produce paracrine factors with anti-inflammatory properties, resulting in reduction of inflammation and functional recovery of the damaged tissues. These properties, in the context of regenerative medicine, are being tested in chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Phase I–II clinical trials indicate that intravenous and local injection of ex vivo-expanded MSCs are feasible and safe in luminal and fistulizing Crohn’s Disease (CD) and in end-stage liver diseases. Large randomized clinical trials are warranted to properly establish the role of MSC therapy for these diseases, in comparison with conventional treatment. This chapter focuses on recent research on the anti-inflammatory/reparative properties of MSCs and discusses the potential clinical applications of MSC-based cellular therapy in GI disorders.