Harnessing Stem Cells for Pediatric Respiratory Diseases: Potential and Clinical Translation

Pediatric respiratory diseases, ranging from acute infections to chronic lung conditions, pose significant morbidity and mortality risks. Current treatment approaches focus on symptomatic relief rather than regenerative solutions. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative due to its potential for immunomodulation, inflammation reduction, and lung tissue repair. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been extensively studied for their regenerative properties, with MSC-derived extracellular vesicles showing potential as a cell-free therapeutic approach. Despite promising preclinical and early clinical findings, challenges such as immune rejection, ethical concerns, and the need for standardized protocols hinder clinical translation. This review examines recent advancements in stem cell therapy for pediatric respiratory diseases, outlining their therapeutic potential, limitations, and future research directions.