title: Treatment of systemic sclerosis: potential role for stem cell transplantation.
abstract: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may "reset" the immune reconstitution and induce self tolerance of autoreactive lymphocytes, and has been explored in the treatments for systemic sclerosis. Phase I/II trials have shown a satisfactory risk benefit ratio. The true benefit will be identified by two ongoing prospective, randomized phase III trials. Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and immunosuppressive properties. The use of MSCs has showed successful responses in patients with severe steroid-resistant acute graft versus host disease in phase II trials, and may be a potentially promising option for patients with systemic sclerosis.
authors.affiliation: Division of Rheumatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
authors.forename: Wen
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Xiong
authors.forename: Chris T
authors.initials: CT
authors.lastname: Derk
keywords: scleroderma; stem cells; systemic sclerosis; transplant; treatment