The Use of Mesenchymal (Skeletal) Stem Cells for Treatment of Degenerative Diseases: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Human bone marrow derived-mesenchymal (skeletal) stem (MSC) cells are a group of non-hematopoietic stem cells residing in the perivascular niches in bone marrow. These cells have the capacity to differentiate mainly into mesoderm-type cells such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes and adipocytes and possibly but not proven to non-mesodermal cell types. Recently, there has been an increased interest in understanding the biology of MSC due to their potential use in cell-based therapy for multiple degenerative diseases. Here, we will provide an update on the current status of these novel therapeutic opportunities.