Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) contribute to the regeneration of mesenchymal tissues, and are essential in providing support for the growth and differentiation of primitive hemopoietic cells within the bone marrow micro-environment. Techniques are now available to isolate human MSCs and manipulate their expansion in vitro under defined culture conditions without change of phenotype or loss of function. Mesenchymal stem cells have generated a great deal of interest in many clinical settings, including that of regenerative medicine, immune modulation and tissue engineering. Studies have already demonstrated the feasibility of transplanted MSCs providing crucial new cellular therapy. In this review, many aspects of the MSC will be discussed, with the main focus being on clinical studies that describe the potential of MSCs to treat patients with hematological malignancies who are undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. © 2005 Taylor & Francis