Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells: Future regenerative medicine for clinical applications in mitigation of radiation injury

World J Stem Cells. 2024 Jul 26;16(7):742-759. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.v16.i7.742.

Abstract

Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are gaining significant attention in regenerative medicine for their potential to treat degenerative diseases and mitigate radiation injuries. WJ-MSCs are more naïve and have a better safety profile, making them suitable for both autologous and allogeneic transplantations. This review highlights the regenerative potential of WJ-MSCs and their clinical applications in mitigating various types of radiation injuries. In this review, we will also describe why WJ-MSCs will become one of the most probable stem cells for future regenerative medicine along with a balanced view on their strengths and weaknesses. Finally, the most updated literature related to both preclinical and clinical usage of WJ-MSCs for their potential application in the regeneration of tissues and organs will also be compiled.

Keywords: Lung fibrosis; Radiotherapy; Stem cells; Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells; Xerostomia.

Publication types

  • Review