Antioxidant mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells and their therapeutic potential in vitiligo

This review article discusses the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating vitiligo, a skin disorder characterized by the loss of pigmentation due to melanocyte dysfunction. The authors explore the role of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, highlighting how ROS can damage melanocytes and contribute to disease progression.

Traditional treatments for vitiligo, such as glucocorticoid therapy, UV light therapy, and topical calcium-modulated phosphatase inhibitors, have limitations like long treatment durations, side effects, and frequent relapses. In contrast, MSCs offer a promising alternative due to their paracrine effects, which can reduce oxidative stress, promote tissue repair, and suppress autoimmune responses.

The article reviews the mechanisms by which MSCs exert antioxidant effects, focusing on several signaling pathways, including the Nrf2/ARE and PI3K/AKT pathways. These pathways help regulate oxidative stress and support melanocyte survival. MSCs can also transfer healthy mitochondria to damaged cells, improving cellular function and reducing oxidative stress. While MSC-based therapies show potential, further research is needed to clarify their safety, effectiveness, and application in clinical settings.

This overview suggests that MSCs could provide a novel, effective treatment approach for vitiligo by addressing its underlying oxidative stress and immune dysfunction.

Keywords: Vitiligo, oxidative stress, mesenchymal stem cells, reactive oxygen species, antioxidant, melanocyte, paracrine effects.

*Reference: Yang, R.-l., Chen, S.-y., Fu, S.-p., Zhao, D.-z., Wan, W.-h., Yang, K., Lei, W., Yang, Y., Zhang, Q., & Zhang, T. (2023). Antioxidant mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells and their therapeutic potential in vitiligo. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 11, 1293101. doi: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1293101.