Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by persistent synovial inflammation driven by immune system dysregulation, which contributes to joint damage and functional impairment. Current treatments target inflammation, but long-term disease control remains inconsistent.
Research has explored mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from perinatal tissues as a potential immunomodulatory therapy for RA.
Perinatal MSCs, derived from the umbilical cord and placenta, have been studied for their ability to regulate immune cell activity. In vitro research demonstrates that these cells influence both innate and adaptive immune responses by modifying cytokine secretion, cell proliferation, and immune cell maturation.
Key Findings:
- Immune Modulation: Perinatal MSCs regulate both innate and adaptive immune responses, potentially reducing inflammation in RA.
- Joint Damage Reduction: In animal models, MSC treatment led to a significant decrease in articular damage and inflammation in synovial tissue.
Animal Clinical trials assessing perinatal MSCs in inflammatory conditions have reported favorable safety profiles.