The implications of stem cell applications for diseases of the respiratory system.
Stem cells possess the unique properties of unlimited self-renewal capability and a broad differentiation spectrum to produce multiple different cell types. This provides many platforms to explore novel multidisciplinary approaches to create and/or restore functional three-dimensional tissues or organs for the treatment of a range of diseases. In this chapter, in the context of respiratory diseases, we review the unique properties of stem cells, and how they have been studied for their therapeutic potential in cell therapy and tissue engineering. In addition, we give a brief overview of the current clinical studies on the use of stem cells for both acute and chronic respiratory diseases.
Advanced Center for Translational Regenerative Medicine (ACTREM), European Airway Institute, Division of Ear, Nose and Throat (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels Allé 8 Huddinge, 141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
Mei Ling
ML
Lim
Philipp
P
Jungebluth
Paolo
P
Macchiarini