Long COVID struck people across the globe out of nowhere, causing substantial damage to their health and resulting in a financial crisis. As a serious threat to one’s longevity, the symptoms of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection can last for about months or years. While conducted studies suggest the COVID-19 vaccines might prove effective for long COVID, the need for an infallible treatment is still there. For this, stem cell research led clinical trials are being conducted, from which mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)-based trials are at the forefront. These trials facilitate the collection of valuable information and statistical data that later serve their purpose in finding effectual treatments for Long COVID. Read on as we uncover some facts about stem cells contribution to Long COVID treatments.
1. Role Of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) For Treatment
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) carry immunomodulatory properties, and it is seen that MSC therapy might activate the immune system of an individual suffering from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Over time, the stem cells play their part in strengthening the immune system, reversing the damaged tissues, and restricting the cytokine storm and release of anti-inflammatory mediators in the body. Several findings also suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) might help mitigate the ill effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the respiratory system as well.
2. Stem Cell’s Potential To Repair Damaged Lung Cells
Long-haul COVID adversely affects one’s lung functionality, causing ailments like pneumonia and, in severe cases, acute ARDS or respiratory distress syndrome as well. For it, multipotent stem cells can assist in revitalizing the epithelium of the respiratory tract, resulting in a revival of lung functionality/respiratory function up to a certain extent. For the execution, the healthy lung stem cells can either be transplanted into injured lung tissue or be migrated to the site of the injury. Stem cell therapy has already shown promising results for treating long COVID-induced lung ailments like emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
3. Stem Cell Use For Regenerative Medicine
Stem cell therapy also plays an instrumental role in the development of regenerative medicine for the implications caused by long COVID. All this is made possible by the advancements made in the field of tissue engineering that facilitated stem cells raised in 3D organoids to be used for personalized applications. For now, stem cell-based regenerative medicine that utilizes tissue engineering technologies combining cell transplantation and microengineering is being used to form organoids, resulting in tissue on biodegradable 3D scaffolds.
4. Usage Of Stem Cell-Based Nanoconjugates In Form Of Nasal Spray
Using the concept of cellular engineering, stem cell-based conjugated nanoparticle nanoconjugates are developed that are used in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 as a nasal spray. This leads to a significant decrease in C-reactive proteins, the release of cytokines, and the revitalization of endothelial cells and epithelial cells. With intranasal application, stem cells can directly reach the injured area and provide their therapeutic effects.
Final Insights
Long-haul COVID can impact an individual’s well-being in several ways by causing multiple health problems like autoimmune disease, migraine, lung disease, and chronic kidney disease. Therefore, considering it a minor health issue won’t be right at all. At the moment, only a selected number of approved clinics are conducting long haul COVID-19 human clinical trials based on stem cell usefulness. One such name is Vitti Long Haul, which is an AATB-accredited, FDA-registered, and cGMP-certified tissue bank and life sciences company.
