Current treatment approaches fail to address the underlying factors responsible for the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD). Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are fibroblastic plastic adherent cells with specific surface markers, and may demonstrate trilineage differentiation ability. MSCs can be isolated from either the adipose tissue, bone marrow or umbilical cord. In refractory fistulizing CD, both autologous and allogeneic MSC therapy with repeated administrations is a feasible and safe therapeutic option with suggestion of efficacy, and several phase 3 trials are currently underway to determine its efficacy. In this review, we discuss the potential therapeutic role of MSC therapy for CD, which is predominantly related to its immunomodulatory role. The characteristics of MSCs derived from patients with CD and its pharmacological interaction are outlined. Preclinical studies using experimental models of colitis and clinical studies using MSCs for the treatment of fistulizing CD are highlighted. Finally, the current perspective and potential limitations of this novel therapy with recommendations for future studies are discussed.
© 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.