title: Mesenchymal stem cells as cellular immunotherapeutics in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
abstract: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a curative treatment option in hematopoietic disorders, immunodeficiencies and leukemia. To date graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) represents a life-threatening complication even if associated with beneficial antileukemic reactivity. GvHD is the clinical manifestation of donor cells reacting against host tissue. Because of their ability to facilitate endogenous repair and to attenuate inflammation, MSC have evolved as a highly attractive cellular therapeutic in allo-HSCT. Here we report on the clinical experience in the use of MSC to enhance engraftment and prevent and treat acute and chronic GvHD. In early clinical trials, MSC have shown considerable benefit in the setting of manifest GvHD. These encouraging results warrant further exploration.
authors: Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Center for Pediatrics, University Hospital, Friedrich-Wilhelm University, Bonn, Germany.
authors: Claudia
authors: C
authors: Papewalis
authors: Daniela
authors: D
authors: Topolar
authors: Barbara
authors: B
authors: Götz
authors: Stefan
authors: S
authors: Schönberger
authors: Dagmar
authors: D
authors: Dilloo