Emerging mesenchymal stem/stromal cell lineages in bacterial infections: mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives.

 

Researchers from Hamedan University of Medical Sciences have elucidated the antibacterial mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a comprehensive review study. These cells directly kill bacteria by secreting peptides such as LL-37 and lipocalin-2 and reduce destructive inflammation by inducing the M2 phenotype of macrophages and increasing interleukin 10. The results show that MSCs are particularly effective in methicillin-resistant staphylococcal (MRSA) infections, sepsis, diabetic ulcers, and even treatment-resistant tuberculosis. Despite challenges such as cell heterogeneity and lack of standardization, the use of engineered exosomes and combination with phage therapy are promising solutions. These findings are an important step towards producing efficient cell products to address the global antibiotic resistance crisis.