Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells: A study on safety and efficacy in ocular inflammation.

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study explores the application of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (adMSCs) as a therapy for ocular inflammatory diseases utilizing a chronic GVHD model. METHODS: Human adMSCs were administered via subconjunctival injection into mice with chronic ocular GVHD. Clinical scores and changes in T cell populations were analyzed. RESULTS: The study showed significant improvement in corneal integrity, including epithelial damage, opacity, thickness, and structure, after subconjunctival adMSC transplantation. Additionally, adMSC transplantation increased CD45and Foxp3Tregs while decreasing CD4T cells, 1IL17ATh17 cells, and IFNγTh1 cells in local cervical lymph nodes. Moreover, adMSC-conditioned media enhanced wound closure and cell migration toward the wound bed in vitro. The cells disappeared within a week suggesting that trophic factors were involved. CONCLUSION: The dual benefit of adMSCs in immune-related ocular disorders underscores their potential for clinical application. This study focuses on subconjunctival delivery, effects of adMSCs and migration post-injection, with implications for optimizing cellular therapy application. The observed dual action, combining immunomodulation and tissue repair enhancement, underscores holistic approach of adMSC therapy in regenerative medicine, making it a potent treatment for diseases involving inflammation and tissue damage in the ocular surface.