Therapeutic Features of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Human Amniotic Epithelial Cells in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Imbalance in immune responses plays an indispensable role in pathogenesis and development of multiple sclerosis (MS), as a neurodegenerative disorder. Current treatments are not always successful in preventing MS development and treating the disease. Stem cell-based cell therapy has provided a new window for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Stem cells can regulate the immune system and improve axonal remyelination. They can be isolated from different origins such as bone marrow, embryonic, neural, and adipose tissues. However, there is a challenge in choosing the best cell source for stem cell therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from different origins have significant immunoregulatory impacts on different cells from the immune system. A growing body of evidence indicates that adipose tissue and umbilical cord can be a suitable source for obtaining MSCs. Moreover, human amniotic epithelial cell (hAEC), as a novel stem cell with immunoregulatory effects, regenerative effects, and low antigenicity, can be a candidate for MS treatment. This chapter discusses therapeutic impacts of MSCs and hAECs in MS disease.