Effect of mesenchymal stromal (stem) cell (MSC) transplantation in asthmatic animal models: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Over the years, mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (MSCs) have been pre-clinically applied in the treatment of variety kinds of diseases including asthma and chronic lung diseases. Aim of the current study was to systematically review and to conduct meta-analysis on the published studies of MSC treatment in asthma animal models.

METHODS

Publications on the MSC and asthma treatment was thoroughly searched in the electronic databases. Statistical analysis was then performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (Version 3). Effect of MSC therapy on asthma model was assessed by Hedges's g with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Random effect model was used due to the heterogeneity between the studies.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis of the 32 included studies showed that MSC transplantation was significantly in favor of attenuating lung injury and remodeling (Hedges's g = -9.104 ± 0.951 with 95% CI: -10.969 ∼ -7.240, P < 0.001) and airway inflammation (Hedges's g = -4.146 ± 0.688 with 95% CI: -5.495 ∼ -2.797, P < 0.001). The mechanism of MSC therapy in asthma seems to be regulating the balance of Th1 cytokine and Th2 cytokines (IFN-γ: Hedges's g = 4.779 ± 1.408 with 95% CI: 1.099-2.725, P < 0.001; IL-4: Hedges's g = -10.781 ± 1.062 with 95% CI: -12.863 ∼ -8.699, P < 0.001; IL-5: Hedges's g = -10.537 ± 1.269 with 95% CI: -13.025 ∼ -8.050, P < 0.001; IL-13: Hedges's g = -6.773 ± 0.788 with 95% CI: -8.318 ∼ -5.229, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Findings of the current systemic review suggested a potential role for MSCs in asthma treatment although it is still challenging in clinical practice. The mechanisms of MSCs in pre-clinical asthma treatment may be associated with attenuating airway inflammation through regulating Th1 and Th2 cytokines.