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Several clinical trials are currently evaluating the safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in different diseases. The MSCs are guided by inflammatory mediators and specific interactions with immune cells occur, especially between MSCs and the cells of the innate immune system. At the present many of these interactions remain to be determined. This review summarizes the current knowledge in relation to the susceptibility of MSCs to NK cell mediated lysis as well as the immunomodulatory activity of MSCs and its control over NK cell function. Here we hypothesize that the inflammatory context will regulate the outcome of NK-MSC interactions.

Background: Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), although in its embryonic phase, is currently experiencing important developments. The technique has been successfully applied for cholecystectomies and appendectomies. However, several doubts exist as to the technical limitations and feasibility of NOTES in other clinical settings., Methods: The authors have performed totally transvaginal colon resections in a sheep model. Although completion of the surgery was possible through the transvaginal route, the addition of a transumbilical laparoscope was used as an added safety measure., Results: Totally transvaginal resection of the sigmoid colon was performed for two sheep with no intra- or postoperative complications., Conclusion: Totally transvaginal resection of the colon (pure NOTES) is feasible in a sheep model.