Cellular Therapy Applications for COVID-19

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 is caused by infection with the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2, which in turn precipitates severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to being associated with a cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Inflammatory endothelialitis is also implicated in disease pathophysiology. Cell-based therapy (CBT) is undergoing testing in numerous mechanistic and pivotal clinical trials due to its known immunomodulatory properties. Culture-expanded mesenchymal stem cells (CD105+ cells) may be safely administered as an allograft and can suppress exuberant immune responses, improve endothelial function, and boost T- and B-cell responses. Early-stage open-label trials have reported potential clinical responses, and pivotal trials have been rapidly initiated. Coupled with the known safety profile, CBT may emerge as a valuable addition to the therapeutic armamentarium for SARS-CoV2. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2009, 2022, Corrected Publication 2022.