[Cell therapy: myoblast autograft].
Transplantation of autologous skeletal muscle cells (myoblasts) into post-infarction scars is intended to restore some functionality in these akinetic areas. This concept is now validated by a large number of experimental studies and the preliminary results of a phase 1 human trial. Several issues however still need to be addressed: critical analysis of myoblasts in comparison with other cell types, in particular bone marrow stem cells; optimization of delivery techniques and cell survival following engraftment; mechanisms by which transplanted cells may affect overall cardiac function and possible extension of the indications to non ischemic cardiomyopathies. Only carefully controlled clinical studies, based on sound experimental data, will allow to address these questions and to define the place cell therapy may have within our armamentarium of techniques designed to ameliorate the prognosis of patients with severe heart failure.
Menasché
Philippe
P
Chirurgie cardiovasculaire B-Hôpital Bichat, 46 rue Henri Huchard-75018 Paris.
D064987:Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D032446:Myoblasts / Q000637:transplantation*