ABSTRACT
Umbilical cord–derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) are easily accessible and expanded in vitro, possess distinct properties, and improve myocardial remodeling and function in experimental models of cardiovascular disease. Although bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells have been previously assessed for their therapeutic potential in individuals with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, no clinical trial has evaluated intravenous infusion of UC-MSCs in these patients.
METHODS AND RESULTS:
Only the UC-MSC–treated group exhibited significant improvements in left ventricular ejection fraction at 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up assessed both through transthoracic echocardiography (P=0.0167 versus baseline) and cardiac MRI (P=0.025 versus baseline).
CONCLUSIONS
Intravenous infusion of UC-MSCs was feasible and safe in this group of patients with HFrEF under otherwise optimal medical therapy. Allogenic UC-MSC treatment induced no humoral immune response in tested individuals. The intervention resulted in a significant improvement in left ventricular function, functional status, and quality of life. These findings suggest that UC-MSCs could have an impact on clinical outcomes, supporting further testing through large clinical trials.
[By Celebre Pro Medic Sdn Bhd 20220211]