Adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells: A study on safety and efficacy in ocular inflammation

Purpose: This study explores the application of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (adMSCs) as a therapy for ocular inflammatory diseases utilizing a chronic GVHD model. Methods: Human adMSCs were administered via subconjunctival injection into mice with chronic ocular GVHD. Clinical scores and changes in T cell populations were analyzed. Results: The study showed significant improvement in corneal integrity, including epithelial damage, opacity, thickness, and structure, after subconjunctival adMSC transplantation. Additionally, adMSC transplantation increased CD45⁺ and Foxp3⁺ Tregs while decreasing CD4⁺ T cells, 1IL17A⁺ Th17 cells, and IFNγ⁺ Th1 cells in local cervical lymph nodes. Moreover, adMSC-conditioned media enhanced wound closure and cell migration toward the wound bed in vitro. The cells disappeared within a week suggesting that trophic factors were involved. Conclusion: The dual benefit of adMSCs in immune-related ocular disorders underscores their potential for clinical application. This study focuses on subconjunctival delivery, effects of adMSCs and migration post-injection, with implications for optimizing cellular therapy application. The observed dual action, combining immunomodulation and tissue repair enhancement, underscores holistic approach of adMSC therapy in regenerative medicine, making it a potent treatment for diseases involving inflammation and tissue damage in the ocular surface.