Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for ischemic cardiomyopathy: Research progress and prospects for application

This review aims to explore the research progress and application prospects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). ICM is a severe heart disease characterized by the death of myocardial cells due to long-term ischemia, leading to impaired heart function. MSCs have become one of the promising therapeutic methods for treating ICM due to their unique anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, immunomodulatory, and pro-angiogenic properties. Studies have shown that MSCs can improve heart function by promoting neovascularization, reducing myocardial cell apoptosis, inhibiting inflammatory responses, and regulating immune reactions. Additionally, MSCs can be sourced from various tissues, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord/placenta, with different sources of MSCs possessing distinct characteristics and therapeutic effects. Clinical studies have indicated that MSC therapy can improve the physical capacity and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with intractable angina, and enhance myocardial perfusion and overall heart function in patients with myocardial infarction. However, issues such as the therapeutic mechanisms of MSCs, the optimal source, infusion routes, and dose optimization still require further research. Future studies need to address these issues to transform MSC therapy from clinical trials to routine clinical practice, thereby revolutionizing the management and prognosis of ICM.