Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells (MSCs) in Regenerative Medicine

Dear Colleagues,

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are among the most extensively studied cell populations in regenerative medicine. Initially valued for their differentiation potential, MSCs are now widely recognized as dynamic regulators of tissue repair, immune modulation, and cellular homeostasis, mediated through complex molecular signaling pathways, cell–cell interactions, and paracrine mechanisms.

Recent molecular and cellular studies have revealed substantial heterogeneity among MSC populations depending on tissue source, donor characteristics, and culture conditions. At the same time, advances in translational research and clinical trial design have expanded the range of therapeutic indications under investigation, including musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, and degenerative pathologies. Despite this progress, important challenges remain, including the identification of robust molecular markers, clarification of in vivo mechanisms of action, standardization of manufacturing processes, and translation of experimental findings into consistent clinical outcomes.

We are pleased to invite researchers and clinicians to contribute to this Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS), dedicated to highlighting recent advances and emerging concepts in MSC research and regenerative medicine.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating MSC function;
• MSC heterogeneity, tissue sources, and donor-related variability;
• Immunomodulatory and regenerative signaling pathways;
• MSC-derived extracellular vesicles, secretome, and cell-free approaches;
• Omics and molecular profiling of MSCs;
• Biomaterials, scaffolds, and tissue engineering approaches;
• Preclinical models and translational studies;
• Clinical applications and clinical trial outcomes;
• Manufacturing, standardization, and regulatory considerations;
• Safety, efficacy, and long-term effects of MSC-based therapies;
• Organs on a chip;
• 3D printed organs and tissues;
• Tissue engineered organs.

Dr. Miomir Knezevic
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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