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Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that are emerging as the
most promising means of allogeneic cell therapy. MSCs have inherent immunomodulatory
characteristics, trophic activity, high invitro self-renewal ability, and can be readily
engineered to enhance their immunomodulatory functions. MSCs affect the functions
of most immune effector cells via direct contact with immune cells and local microenvironmental
factors. Previous studies have confirmed that the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs
are mainly communicated via MSC-secreted cytokines; however, apoptotic and metabolically
inactivated MSCs have more recently been shown to possess immunomodulatory potential,
in which regulatory T cells and monocytes play a key role. We review the immunomodulatory
aspects of naïve and engineered MSCs, and discuss strategies for increasing the potential
of successfully using MSCs in clinical settings.