Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell (BMSC)

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs), also commonly termed mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are a heterogeneous population of multipotent non-hematopoietic cells within the bone marrow stroma[2][1][5]. They can differentiate into multiple lineages including osteoblasts (bone cells), chondrocytes (cartilage), adipocytes (fat), and others. BMSCs provide structural and nutritional support for hematopoietic cells, regulate bone remodeling, and modulate immune responses. They secrete cytokines and growth factors that help maintain tissue homeostasis and are investigated for applications in regenerative medicine, immune modulation, and treatment of certain inflammatory, autoimmune, and degenerative diseases. However, they are cells and not a receptor or molecular target, so are not considered classical therapeutic targets for drug binding. The field continues to debate their precise in vivo roles, sub-classifications, and safe clinical utility[2][7][1][3][5].

Other names

Mesenchymal stromal cellMesenchymal stem cellMSCSkeletal stem cellStromal cell

Not applicable as a target; in cell therapy, BMSCs work through paracrine signaling, immunomodulation, and differentiation into specific cell types