Use of Stem Cells in Wound Healing

This review provides an overview of the principal stages of wound healing, the populations of endogenous and therapeutic stem cells, applications of stem cells in specific types of wounds, and current approaches of stem cell delivery for tissue regeneration. New uses of progenitor stem cells have been developed for the treatment of wounds. Stem cells improve wound healing through both local and paracrine effects. Stem cell populations of therapeutic utility include embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, adult bone marrow and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, as well as stem cells from skin, cord blood, and extra fetal tissue. Induced pluripotent stem cells mitigate many of the ethical and immunogenic concerns related to use of embryonically derived stem cells. Skin, the largest organ in the human body, serves as a protective barrier for mammals. Both aging and disease contribute to loss of skin barrier function, which can result in consequences such as chronic wounds. Recent advances in many types of stem cell therapy may revolutionize treatment of difficult wounds. Optimal techniques for obtaining and delivering stem cells are still being refined.