Cardiovascular Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine: Ready for Prime Time?

Restoration of cardiovascular function is the ultimate goal of stem cell-based therapy. In principle, cardiovascular stem cells can improve cardiac function via de novo cardiomyogenesis, enhanced myocardial neovascularization, and prevention of post-infarct remodeling. Stem cell transplantation to improve cardiac function has received mixed results in human clinical trials. These early data suggest that a critical reassessment of the scientific basis to stem cell-based therapy is needed in order to bring this highly promising treatment modality to mainstream clinical care.

Duke Scholars

Author Ravi Karra Medicine, Cardiology