Immunosuppressive Activity of Adult Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells on Innate Immune Cells in the Central Nervous System

Adult marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells are currently in clinical trials for various neurodegenerative diseases. Through secretion of soluble and insoluble trophic factors, mesenchymal stromal cells promote the endogenous stem and progenitor cells to repair damaged tissues. At the same time, mesenchymal stromal cells control the inflammation that often co-exists with tissue injury. In the central nervous system, the major immune components are the innate immune cells. In the current review, we will highlight and discuss the in vitro and in vivo studies in which MSCs have been shown to regulate innate immune cells in the central nervous system.