International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 123-131 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 126 for MSCs, such as determining the most effective cell dose, timing and route of administration, as well as evaluating long-term safety and efficacy, to better translate this therapeutic strategy into clinical applications. 3.2.1 Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Autoimmune diseases are a class of diseases caused by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking its own healthy cells and tissues. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex multi-system autoimmune disease with symptoms involving multiple organs and systems, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and nervous system. The treatment of SLE has always been a challenge, mainly because of the need to control an overactive immune response while preventing tissue damage. In recent years, the application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of autoimmune diseases has attracted wide attention, especially in the treatment of SLE. Chen et al. (2019) believed that in the treatment of SLE, MSCs secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines such as TGF-β and IL-10 to suppress the excessive immune response, thereby alleviating the symptoms of SLE patients. In addition, MSCs are able to restore balance to the immune system by promoting the function of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Tregs are a class of immunosuppressive T cells that suppress the autoimmune response, thereby protecting the body from autoimmune diseases. Studies have shown that MSCs can induce the production of Tregs and enhance their immunosuppressive function, thereby further suppressing the autoimmune response and alleviating the symptoms of SLE patients. In addition to acting directly on the immune system. Gomzikova et al. (2019) believe that although MSCs show some potential in the treatment of SLE, the current research is still in the preliminary stage. In the future, it is necessary to further investigate the mechanism of action and therapeutic effect of MSCs, and explore its application in other autoimmune diseases. At the same time, attention should also be paid to the safety and feasibility of MSCs treatment to ensure that they can be safely and effectively used in clinical practice. 3.2.2 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, pain, swelling, and joint destruction. For the treatment of RA, the key is to effectively control joint inflammation, prevent joint destruction, and restore joint function. In the treatment of RA, the application of MSCs is mainly based on their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and tissue repair capabilities. MSCs can inhibit inflammatory cell infiltration and the production of inflammatory factors by secreting a variety of anti-inflammatory factors, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10). These anti-inflammatory factors can down-regulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reduce the inflammatory response in the joint cavity, and thus relieve joint pain and swelling. Munir and McGettrick (2015) mentioned that MSCs also have immunomodulatory functions, which can regulate the activity of immune cells and inhibit autoimmune reactions. In the pathogenesis of RA, immune cells such as T cells, B cells and macrophages are involved in the occurrence and development of joint inflammation. By interacting with immune cells, MSCs can inhibit their activation, proliferation and differentiation, thereby reducing the progression of joint inflammation. MSCs also promote the regeneration and repair of articular cartilage. In the course of RA, the destruction of articular cartilage is one of the important reasons leading to the loss of joint function. MSCs can differentiate into chondrocytes, secrete cartilage matrix, and promote the regeneration and repair of joint cartilage. Through this mechanism, MSCs can slow down the process of joint destruction and protect joint function. Through in-depth study of the biological characteristics and mechanism of MSCs, it is expected to provide new strategies and methods for the treatment of RA. 3.2.3 Crohn's disease Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, has become the focus of medical attention because of its difficult to cure. Patients often suffer from diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss and other symptoms, and their quality of life is severely affected. MSCs are a class of cells with self-renewal ability and multidirectional differentiation potential, which can regulate immune response and promote tissue repair. In the treatment of Crohn's disease, the potential of MSCs is mainly reflected in two aspects: First, by regulating intestinal immune
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