Potential benefits of allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for wound healing.

INTRODUCTION: It is becoming increasingly evident that select adult stem cells have the capacity to participate in repair and regeneration of damaged and/or diseased tissues. Mesenchymal stem cells have been among the most studied adult stem cells for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including wound healing. AREAS COVERED: Mesenchymal stem cell features potentially beneficial to cutaneous wound healing applications are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION: Given their potential for in vitro expansion and immune modulatory effects, both autologous and allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells appear to be well suited as wound healing therapies. Allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells derived from young healthy donors could have particular advantage over autologous sources where age and systemic disease can be significant factors.