Update on COVID-19 Infections and the Promising Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies in their Management

Abstract

The pandemic of COVID-19 has adversely affected almost every aspect of our lives but the world health and economic sectors suffer most of the repercussions of this disease. The search for a cure for this rapidly spreading virus which is causing massive life losses around the globe requires clear understanding of the immunopathogenesis of this virus as well as the mechanisms of actions of the various therapeutic modalities that are employed in the treatment of this life-threatening viral infection. Mesenchymal stem cells have antimicrobials effects in addition to their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. They have been utilized in the treatment of various infections and their complications both in animal models and in human clinical trials. Mesenchymal stem cells derived from certain sources and their secretory products are particularly effective in the treatment of pneumonia, sepsis, acute lung injury, and acute respiratory distress syndrome which are common complications of COVID-19 infections. The review will discuss the various aspects of COVID-19 and it will highlight the promising role of mesenchymal stem cells in treating the complications of COVID-19 infections.