Inflammation, fibrosis, and modulation of the process by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells

Highlights

• Tissue fibrosis is characterized by excessive accumulation of collagen.

• Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have the capacity to modulate inflammatory and immune responses to the injury.

• TSG-6 is a critical molecule mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of MSCs.

• Ongoing clinical trials have suggested that MSC administration may be beneficial for a broad range of diseases.

Abstract

Fibrosis and scarring are the end stage of many disease processes. In effect, the collagen fibers that initially provide a necessary strength during the repair of injured tissues are frequently synthesized in excessive amounts and become irreversible fibrotic deposits that limit regeneration of the endogenous cells of a tissue. This review will focus on the potential of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells for treatment of fibrotic diseases, with emphasis on the role of TSG-6 as a mediator of anti-inflammatory effects.