Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, leading to neurodegeneration and disability. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has emerged as a promising approach due to its immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties.

Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a rare, and severe neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects females and is primarily (> 96%) due to pathogenic loss-of-function genetic variants of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Despite the rarity of the syndrome, sporadic twin cases have been reported. The descriptions have often focused on the phenotype, emphasizing differences or similarities. We report the case of monozygotic (MZ) twins with RTT carrying the same MECP2 mutation and perform a systematic review of the cases of MZ twins.

To assess research directions of the Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) injections in traumatology and orthopaedics.

Regenerative endodontics utilizes stem cell biology and bioactive materials to restore pulp vitality. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs), with their self-renewal and odontogenic differentiation potential, are central to regenerative endodontics. Hydraulic calcium silicate-based cements (HCSCs), such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine (Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France), are widely used in vital pulp therapies to promote pulp vitality recovery. This research evaluates the response of hDPSCs to HCSCs through a meta-analysis that assesses their cytocompatibility and bioactive effects on hDPSCs in laboratory conditions. The review adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023473456). A complete search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases included all scientific articles between 2014 and 2023. Research involving hDPSCs exposed to HCSCs included in vitro investigations that studied both cell survival and proliferation, as well as migration, adhesion, and odontogenic differentiation. The risk assessment for potential bias in the studies used the Cochrane ROB-2 tool. The monitoring process for assessing the effects of pooled cell viability relied on RevMan 5.3 software (The Cochrane Collaboration, London, UK) for the execution of this meta-analysis. Quality synthesis included 16 studies, while the meta-analysis included three studies. The majority of research findings demonstrate that MTA, when combined with Biodentine, particularly at concentrations of 0.2-2 mg/mL, along with accelerated MTA and a calcium-enriched mixture (CEM, BioniqueDent, Tehran, Iran), effectively boosted hDPSC cell viability and migration, while also promoting their odontogenic differentiation. The laboratory tests demonstrated that TheraCal LC (BISCO, Inc., Schaumburg, IL, USA) produced toxic effects, but TheraCal PT exhibited non-toxic properties. Based on meta-analyzed data, the control groups attained a standardized mean difference of -0.26 (95% CI: -0.90 to 0.38), though this difference proved non-significant at p > 0.05. The examination of funnel plots found no indication of important publication bias. The vital pulp treatment success of MTA, Biodentine, accelerated MTA, and CEM as hydraulic calcium silicate-based biomaterials becomes more evident due to their induction of positive hDPSC biological outcomes, such as enhanced cell viability and migration and enhanced odontogenic differentiation potential. In addition, in vivo research, along with clinical trials, must precede material selection optimization for implementing regenerative endodontic treatments.

Intra-articular injection of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has emerged as a promising therapy for knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal cell dose for maximizing clinical benefit. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of MSC injections for knee OA and investigate the relationship between cell dose and treatment outcome.

Intrauterine adhesions (IUA), a common gynecological condition, often result from endometrial injury and fibrosis. Traditional therapies like hysteroscopic adhesiolysis and hormone therapy show limited efficacy in endometrial repair and high recurrence rates. Stem cell therapy, particularly using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), has emerged as a promising alternative. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of MSCs therapy for IUA.

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, and radiation therapy is a central component of its management. However, intrinsic or acquired resistance to radiation significantly compromises therapeutic efficacy. This systematic review aimed to identify and evaluate molecular mechanisms and interventions that influence radiation sensitivity in breast cancer models. A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using the terms "breast cancer" and "radiation resistance" for studies published between 2002 and 2024. Seventy-nine eligible studies were included. The most frequently investigated mechanisms included the dysregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK signaling pathways, enhanced DNA damage repair via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), and the overexpression of cancer stem cell markers such as CD44+/CD24-/low and ALDH1. Several studies highlighted the role of non-coding RNAs, particularly the lncRNA DUXAP8 and microRNAs such as miR-21, miR-144, miR-33a, and miR-634, in modulating radiation response. Components of the tumor microenvironment, including cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune regulators, also contributed to radiation resistance. By synthesizing current evidence, this review provides a consolidated resource to guide future mechanistic studies and therapeutic development. This review highlights promising molecular targets and emerging strategies to enhance radiosensitivity and offers a foundation for translational research aimed at improving outcomes in radiation-refractory breast cancer.

Background & Objectives Stem cell based therapeutic treatments have been used as a management strategy for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a common primary factor causing death globally. We aimed to undertake a meta-analysis of studies including randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining different stem cell preparations in AMI, as a definitive answer from this therapeutic approach is yet to emerge. Methods Following PROSPERO registration (CRD42024628552), a systematic search was conducted through PubMed database, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Data was analysed using RevMan 5.4.1. Primary outcomes included all-cause mortality, recurrent myocardial infarction (Re-MI), severe adverse events (SAEs), hospitalisation for heart failure, cancer incidence, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). A fixed-effect model was used to assess six outcomes: all-cause mortality, Re-MI, SAEs, heart failure hospitalisation, cancer incidence, and stroke. A model based on random effects depending on heterogeneity was used to assess LVEF. Results From 9,516 records, 48 studies were included for analysis based on available endpoints. No notable changes in all-cause mortality were observed between patients receiving stem cell therapy and those in the control group, according to the meta-analysis. [Risk Ratio (RR) 0.73], SAEs (RR 0.93), Re-MI (RR 0.67), HF-related hospitalisation (RR 0.79), cancer (RR 0.82), or stroke (RR 0.81). Echocardiographic LVEF improved significantly at study end [Mean difference (MD) 2.53%] and difference from baseline (MD 3.89%), with high heterogeneity (I2 - 76%). MRI-assessed LVEF showed no significant change at study end (MD 0.83%) but improved from baseline (MD 1.37%). Heterogeneity was low except for LVEF, with serious bias risk for most outcomes and very serious for Re-MI and SAEs, though their objective nature limits bias Interpretation & conclusions Analysis done found no significant benefit of stem cell-based therapies on clinical endpoints in AMI patients.

Background & objectives Cancer stem cells influence aggressive biology, metastasis, recurrence, and treatment resistance in various malignancies. The transcription factors SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and Homeobox protein NANOG (NANOG) are prime controllers of the signalling circuit required for embryonic stem cell pluripotency. Salivary gland tumours exhibit diverse biological and clinical behaviours ranging from a benign, innocuous nature to highly aggressive tumours, with a great tendency for recurrence, and poor prognosis. Advances in therapeutic modalities have also been limited. This systematic review aims to uncover the differential expression and influence of SOX2, OCT4, and NANOG in salivary gland malignancies. This could help the stratification of high-risk patients and the identification of newer prognostic and predictive remedial targets. Methods PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Clinical key databases were searched for relevant articles, and studies that met the eligibility criteria were selected. Results Ten articles that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included. All the studies supported the role of the studied markers as prognosticators and potential therapeutic targets. Interpretation & conclusion The aforementioned transcription factors might have contributed to aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Thus, it has been inferred that a combination of these factors may serve as a marker to determine the behaviour and therapeutic approaches for salivary gland malignancies.

Bacterial infections are a globally growing health issue, with an estimated 7.7 million deaths attributed to these infections worldwide. These life-threatening infections, primarily linked to antimicrobial resistance, are difficult to treat, and the growing reliance on last-resort antibiotics is exacerbating the problem. For this reason, numerous preclinical studies have been conducted using mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) and their secretome as an alternative new therapeutic strategy for treating bacterial infections. However, these studies exhibit substantial disparities, often due to the lack of a consensus definition for MSCs and the broad variability in their reported characteristics. Thus, the purpose of this systematic review was to summarize studies that have used various sources of human MSCs and their secretome to treat bacterial infection in rodent models, to present an overview of evidence to proceed with clinical studies.

Meristems contain a population of stem cells with the potential to generate all postembryonic plant organs. Given the significance of meristems for plant growth and development, manipulating meristem activity is a promising approach for crop improvement. Members of the WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX (WOX) gene family are key regulators of nearly all types of meristems. Nevertheless, a comparative analysis of their functions in different meristems and species is still lacking. Here, we provide a systematic overview of the involvement and mechanisms of WOX genes in mediating meristem function, from the well-characterized model plant Arabidopsis thaliana to less-studied crop species. We also highlight recent advances in understanding how WOX genes can be applied to improve agronomic traits or facilitate biological processes, such as regeneration and apomixis, in crop plants.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most common forms of joint degeneration, frequently resulting in persistent pain, reduced mobility, and impaired quality of life. The disease is characterized by the progressive breakdown of articular cartilage, synovial inflammation, and subchondral bone changes. Conventional management options such as analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and surgical procedures are primarily aimed at alleviating symptoms rather than reversing or halting disease progression. In recent years, interest has grown in regenerative strategies, particularly the use of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAD-MSCs), due to their ability to modulate inflammation, promote tissue repair, and potentially regenerate damaged cartilage. These stem cells are favored for their ease of harvest, high yield, and ability to differentiate into chondrocytes. Despite their promising biological properties, the clinical benefit of intra-articular hAD-MSC therapy in KOA remains a subject of ongoing investigation, with varying outcomes reported across studies.

Skin aging leads to changes such as dyschromia, rhytids, dermal atrophy, and reduced elasticity. Adipose-derived cell therapies (ADCTs), including stromal vascular fraction (SVF), adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs), have gained attention for their regenerative potential. In this systematic review, the authors aim to evaluate the effectiveness of ADCT in improving skin quality such as elasticity, texture, pigmentation, and rhytid reduction. This systematic review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, with a comprehensive search conducted across PubMed (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD), Embase (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), and Scopus (Elsevier). The authors of eligible studies must have assessed skin quality outcomes, such as rhytids, dyschromia, texture, and elasticity. Data on study design, treatment protocols, and outcomes were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool (Cochrane, London, United Kingdom). Meta-analyses were conducted where appropriate. Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria. Rhytid severity decreased with SVF and ADSC-conditioned medium, particularly in periorbital and nasolabial regions. However, the authors of a meta-analysis of 2 studies showed nonsignificant reduction in rhytids (P = .12, I2 = 81%), and melanin index results were inconsistent. Combination therapies (eg, SVF with laser or platelet-rich plasma) outperformed SVF alone. Heterogeneity in follow-up duration, treatment protocols, and assessment tools limited direct comparisons. ADCTs show promise as a minimally invasive approach to enhance skin quality. However, variability across studies limits definitive conclusions. Standardized protocols, objective assessment tools, and long-term follow-up are needed to validate them as a reliable skin rejuvenation therapy. Future research should focus on objective assessment tools and larger sample sizes to establish ADCT as a viable skin rejuvenation therapy. Level of Evidence: 3 (Therapeutic).

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition characterized by primary mechanical damage followed by secondary injury processes, including inflammation and gliosis. These complex pathophysiological responses significantly hinder neuronal recovery and functional restoration. Emerging therapies, such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), offer promising avenues for mitigating these secondary effects and promoting repair. This review aims to explore the pathophysiology of SCI, with a focus on inflammation and gliosis, and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of LLLT in improving outcomes after SCI. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Database, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases to identify studies published from 2000 to 2024. Keywords included "spinal cord injury," "inflammation," "gliosis," and "low-level laser therapy." Articles were screened based on relevance, and data were extracted and synthesized to provide insights into the mechanisms and therapeutic applications. Results: Inflammation following SCI involves a cascade of cellular and molecular events that contribute to secondary damage. Gliosis, predominantly driven by astrocytes and microglia, forms a glial scar that impedes axonal regeneration. While these processes are initially protective, their prolonged activation exacerbates neural damage. LLLT has shown the potential to modulate these responses by reducing oxidative stress, promoting anti-inflammatory pathways, and enhancing neuroprotection. Preclinical studies demonstrate that LLLT improves functional recovery, reduces gliosis, and supports axonal regeneration, although standardized protocols and clinical validation remain challenges. Conclusion: The interplay between inflammation and gliosis significantly influences the outcomes of SCI. LLLT emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy by targeting these processes and promoting regeneration. Further research is needed to standardize LLLT protocols and validate its efficacy in clinical settings, paving the way for improved management of SCI.

The shortage of donor hearts significantly limits heart transplantation. Innovative machine perfusion strategies have emerged to address the shortcomings of traditional static cold storage after brain death (SCS-DBD), potentially enhancing outcomes and broadening donor eligibility. We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of heart transplantation using machine perfusion techniques with conventional SCS-DBD.

Exosomes, nanosized extracellular vesicles ranging from 30 to 150 nm, are secreted by all cell types through the endocytic pathway and have emerged as promising candidates for both biomarkers and therapeutic agents due to their capability to transport bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells. This intercellular communication facilitates numerous biological processes, including cellular signaling, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. Despite their therapeutic potential, a comprehensive understanding of the diverse functions and clinical applications of exosomes remains limited, representing a significant gap in the current biomedical literature. To address this, we conducted a systematic analysis of 27 relevant studies examining exosome applications across various medical fields including neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular conditions, cancer therapy, regenerative medicine, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, and respiratory ailments. Our findings demonstrate that exosomes actively participate in immune regulation, angiogenesis, and tissue repair mechanisms. However, several challenges must be overcome to translate these findings into clinical practice, such as establishing standardized large-scale production methods, achieving precise cargo loading and targeted delivery, and ensuring safety regarding immunogenicity and biodistribution. In conclusion, our study highlights the critical role of exosomes as leading cell-free therapeutic tools and underscores the necessity for further research to validate their potential as substitutes for cell-based therapies, thereby advancing innovative, non-cellular treatment strategies in clinical medicine.

Apart from therapeutic hypothermia, no treatment is approved for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Stem cell therapy is a promising option, with a few studies conducted in recent years.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an unpredictable and potentially fatal disease. Currently, it is believed that the pathological mechanism of AP is closely related to autophagy imbalance, abnormal activation of inflammatory signals, and impairments in cell damage repair. Autophagy exhibits a double-edged sword effect of "activation accompanied by flux impairment" in AP. In this article, a systematic review is conducted on how mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their secreted exosomes deliver functional miRNAs, targeting and regulating pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR to achieve multiple effects including anti-inflammation, regeneration promotion, and restoration of autophagy homeostasis, providing new strategies for AP treatment. Current research challenges focus on the standardization of exosome preparation, optimization of miRNA delivery efficiency, and long-term safety evaluation. Further elucidation of the "cell-vesicle-miRNA-target pathway" cascade network, combined with multi-omics technology to develop precise intervention programs, is needed to advance AP treatment from mechanistic exploration to clinical translation.

Sepsis remains a leading global health challenge, with delayed recognition and limited diagnostic accuracy of current tools contributing to high morbidity and mortality. Conventional clinical scores (SOFA/qSOFA), standard biomarkers (CRP, PCT), and blood cultures suffer from delayed responsiveness, insufficient specificity, or slow turnaround, underscoring the urgent need for more reliable early diagnostic strategies. Presepsin, a soluble CD14 subtype generated during pathogen recognition by innate immune cells, has emerged as a promising biomarker with potential to reflect infection status earlier and more specifically than traditional markers. This systematic review and meta-analysis quantitatively evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of presepsin across diverse populations. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Forty-seven studies involving 7,087 participants were included. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), area under the curve (AUC), and likelihood ratios (PLR/NLR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed with I² statistics, meta-regression, and subgroup analyses. Study quality was evaluated using QUADAS-2. Presepsin demonstrated excellent overall diagnostic performance: pooled sensitivity 0.84 (95% CI: 0.81-0.88), specificity 0.86 (95% CI: 0.80-0.90), DOR 32.23 (95% CI: 20.11-51.66), and AUC 0.91 (95% CI: 0.88-0.93). Subgroup analyses confirmed robust performance across settings and populations, with particularly high accuracy in neonates (sensitivity 0.90, specificity 0.92, AUC 0.96), followed by children (sensitivity 0.84, specificity 0.81, AUC 0.88, NLR 0.20) and adults (sensitivity 0.81, specificity 0.82, AUC 0.87). Meta-regression identified year of publication, geographic region, specimen type, population, and diagnostic criteria as key contributors to heterogeneity, but sensitivity analyses confirmed result stability. No significant publication bias was observed (p = 0.33). In conclusion, presepsin is a valuable and highly promising biomarker for sepsis diagnosis, showing favorable diagnostic accuracy across populations, with strongest utility in neonates. Its application in pediatric and adult patients warrants further validation through large, prospective, multi-center studies.

Scarring is a common side effect of cutaneous surgery. Scarring has been linked to decreased quality of life and patient satisfaction after surgery.