Immune system modulation via cytokine secretion by mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulate the immune system in part by secreting an array of cytokines and chemokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and others[1][2][3][4][5]. These secreted factors can suppress or promote immune responses depending on their microenvironment and the presence of inflammatory signals. The MSC secretome influences T cell, B cell, macrophage, dendritic cell, and neutrophil activity, resulting in effects such as inhibition of T cell proliferation, promotion of regulatory T cells, and support for antibody-producing plasma cells[2][3][4]. The cytokine profile varies with donor source and activation conditions[1][3]. Therapeutically, MSCs are investigated for applications in controlling autoimmune diseases, inflammation, tissue regeneration, and even cancer, but safety concerns include immunosuppression, infection risk, and potential tumorigenicity due to growth factor production[4][5][6]. Because this "target" is a description of an *activity* and not a molecule, protein, receptor, or gene, it is not a conventional therapeutic target under standard definitions. This entry is therefore classified as **incorrect for canonical molecular target identification**.

Other names

MSCs cytokine-mediated immunomodulationImmunoregulatory cytokine secretion by mesenchymal stem cellsMSC cytokine profile

Modulation of immune cell activation through anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (e.g., IL-10, TGF-β, PGE2, IL-6)[2][3][5] - Suppression of cytotoxic T cell proliferation and function via NO, IDO, TGF-β