Mesenchymal stem cells in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis: A systematic literature review and review of clinical trials.

Introduction: 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.

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Materials And Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus was conducted up to April 2025 using keywords such as "mesenchymal stem cells," "cell therapy," and "multiple sclerosis." Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of MSC therapy in MS patients. Key outcomes analyzed included neurological function improvement, disease progression, inflammatory marker reduction, and adverse events.

Results: Out of 7574 identified studies, 34 met the inclusion criteria, covering both preclinical and clinical investigations. Findings indicated that MSC therapy contributed to neuroprotection, immunomodulation, and functional recovery, with some studies reporting a decrease in lesion activity on MRI and improved Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores. While short-term safety profiles were favorable, long-term efficacy and optimal administration protocols remain uncertain. Further high-quality clinical trials are needed to establish standardized treatment protocols and validate long-term benefits.

Discussion: The findings suggest that MSC therapy holds potential for slowing disease progression and promoting neurological recovery in MS patients. However, variations in cell sources, administration methods, and patient responses demonstrate the importance of standardized protocols. Further large-scale, long-term studies are essential to confirm efficacy, optimize treatment strategies, and assess potential risks.