Microvesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells: A promising therapeutic strategy for acute respiratory distress syndrome-related pulmonary fibrosis?

Pulmonary fibrosis significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), markedly increasing patient mortality. Despite the established anti-fibrotic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), numerous challenges hinder their clinical application. A recent study demonstrated that microvesicles (MVs) from MSCs (MSC-MVs) could attenuate ARDS-related pulmonary fibrosis and enhance lung function via hepatocyte growth factor mRNA transcription. This discovery presents a promising strategy for managing ARDS-associated pulmonary fibrosis. This article initially examines the safety and efficacy of MSCs from both basic science and clinical perspectives, subsequently exploring the potential and obstacles of employing MSC-MVs as a novel therapeutic approach. Additionally, it provides perspectives on future research into the application of MSC-MVs in ARDS-associated pulmonary fibrosis.

Key Words: Microvesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells; Acute respiratory distress syndrome; Pulmonary fibrosis; Hepatocyte growth factor; Mesenchymal stromal cells

Core Tip: Pulmonary fibrosis serves as a critical predictor of adverse outcomes in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Currently, effective treatments for pulmonary fibrosis are notably scarce in clinical settings, highlighting the need for the identification of safe and effective therapeutic strategies. This study supports the Chen et al’s conclusion. To deepen our understanding of this novel therapeutic option, we initially review the safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells therapy. Subsequently, we elaborate on the potential applications and challenges associated with mesenchymal stem cells-microvesicles as an emerging therapeutic modality.

• Citation: Zhang Z, Shan XY, Liang C, Zhao L, Shan XQ. Microvesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells: A promising therapeutic strategy for acute respiratory distress syndrome-related pulmonary fibrosis? World J Stem Cells 2025; 17(1): 101036
• URL: https://www.wjgnet.com/1948-0210/full/v17/i1/101036.htm
• DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4252/wjsc.v17.i1.101036