Pretreatment can alleviate programmed cell death in mesenchymal stem cells

Abstract

In this editorial, we delved into the article titled “Cellular preconditioning and mesenchymal stem cell ferroptosis.” This groundbreaking study underscores a pivotal discovery: Ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, drastically reduces the viability of donor mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) after engraftment, thereby undermining the therapeutic value of cell-based therapies. Furthermore, the article proposes that by manipulating ferroptosis mechanisms through preconditioning, we can potentially enhance the survival rate and functionality of MSCs, ultimately amplifying their therapeutic potential. Given the crucial role ferroptosis plays in shaping the therapeutic outcomes of MSCs, we deem it imperative to further investigate the intricate interplay between programmed cell death and the therapeutic effectiveness of MSCs.

Keywords: Mesenchymal stem cells; Programmed cell death; Apoptosis; Autophagy; Ferroptosis

Core Tip: As ferroptosis, a distinct form of programmed cell death, significantly impairs the post-engraftment viability of donor mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), it assumes paramount importance in dictating the therapeutic efficacy of these cells. Recognizing the pivotal role ferroptosis exerts in shaping the outcome of MSC-based therapies, we underscore the urgency to delve deeper into the intricate relationship between this mode of cell death and the therapeutic potency of MSCs. In this context, we presented our viewpoint on the recently published editorial entitled “Cellular preconditioning and mesenchymal stem cell ferroptosis,” offering insights into this intricate interplay.