Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Coronary Artery Disease: Narrative Review

Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality despite advances in medical and interventional therapies. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has emerged as a promising regenerative approach for patients with refractory or non-revascularizable CAD. MSCs exhibit unique immunomodulatory, pro-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic properties, primarily through paracrine mechanisms involving the secretion of cytokines, growth factors, and exosomal microRNAs. Clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated improvements in myocardial perfusion, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and functional capacity following MSC-based interventions, particularly in patients with low baseline LVEF and heightened inflammation. Various MSC sources-including bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord-offer distinct advantages, while delivery strategies such as intracoronary, intramyocardial, intravenous, and subcutaneous administration impact cell retention and efficacy. Advances in genetic modification, hypoxic preconditioning, and exosome-based therapies aim to enhance MSC survival and therapeutic potency. However, challenges persist regarding cell engraftment, cryopreservation effects, and inter-patient variability. Moving toward precision cell therapy, future approaches may involve stratifying patients by inflammatory status, ischemic burden, and comorbidities to optimize treatment outcomes. MSCs may not yet replace conventional therapies but are increasingly positioned to complement them within a personalized, regenerative framework for CAD management.