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World J Stem Cells. Jul 26, 2014; 6(3): 296-304
Published online Jul 26, 2014. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i3.296
Published online Jul 26, 2014. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i3.296
Mesenchymal stem cells: Potential role in corneal wound repair and transplantation
Fei Li, Shao-Zhen Zhao, Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300384, China
Author contributions: Zhao SZ conducted the review; Li F wrote the paper.
Correspondence to: Shao-Zhen Zhao, MD, Professor, Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery, Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital, 251 Fukang Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300384, China. zhaosz1997@sina.com
Telephone: +86-22-58280701 Fax: +86-22-23346434
Received: October 28, 2013
Revised: March 24, 2014
Accepted: April 11, 2014
Published online: July 26, 2014
Revised: March 24, 2014
Accepted: April 11, 2014
Published online: July 26, 2014
Core Tip
Core tip: Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy has been proposed as a possible treatment strategy for tissue wound repair, autoimmune diseases, and solid organ transplantation. MSCs are a promising stem cell population because of their self-renewal, pluripotential capability, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies have suggested that application of MSCs may be a new alternative method for wound healing after severe corneal damage and for immune rejection after corneal transplantation. In this review, we discuss the potential functions of MSCs in protecting corneal tissue and their possible mechanisms in corneal wound healing and corneal transplantation.