Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC) (hUC-MSC)

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells harvested from umbilical cord tissue, most commonly from Wharton's jelly. These cells are defined by their ability to adhere to plastic and express specific surface markers such as CD73, CD90, and CD105, while lacking hematopoietic markers like CD34 and CD45 (Dominici et al., 2006, Cytotherapy). Unlike traditional molecular targets such as receptors or enzymes, hUC-MSCs function as a complex cellular therapy that modulates the immune system and promotes tissue regeneration through paracrine signaling (Wang et al., 2022, Stem Cell Research & Therapy). They secrete a wide array of bioactive factors, including cytokines and extracellular vesicles, which interact with multiple host pathways to reduce inflammation and support repair (Nagamura-Inoue & He, 2014, World Journal of Stem Cells). hUC-MSCs are extensively investigated for treating conditions like graft-versus-host disease, autoimmune disorders, and acute lung injury. Because they are a living cellular entity, they do not possess a single defined molecular target but rather act through integrated biological responses. Safety concerns associated with their use include potential tumorigenicity and the risk of thromboembolism during intravenous administration (Barkholt et al., 2013, Stem Cells Translational Medicine).

Other names

Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cellUC-MSCWharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cellUmbilical cord stromal cell

Multifaceted therapeutic action involving paracrine secretion of immunomodulatory cytokines and direct cell-to-cell interactions.