Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Strategical Means for the Treatment of COVID-19

Muhammad Taufiq, Nurhannah Aqilah (2022) Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Strategical Means for the Treatment of COVID-19. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

In coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines from over stimulation of immune cells have become a concern due to the potential outburst of cytokine storm that can damage the tissues and organs, especially the lungs. This leads to the manifestation of COVID-19 symptoms such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ failure and eventually death. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are currently one of hopeful approaches in treating COVID-19 considering its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulation function. On that account, the number of clinical trials concerning the use of MSCs for COVID-19 has been increasing. However, the number of systematic reviews and meta-analysis that specifically discuss its potential as treatment for the disease is still lacking. Therefore, this review will assess the safety and efficacy of MSC administration in COVID-19 patients. Objectives: To pool evidence on the safety and efficacy of MSCs in treating COVID-19 by observing MSC-related adverse effects as well as evaluating its effects in reducing inflammatory response and improving pulmonary function. Hypothesis: MSC can reduce inflammation and improve pulmonary function without causing adverse effects in moderate to critical COVID-19 patients. Methodology: From literature search across 6 databases and 1 trial register, 8 studies were included for data extraction. Subsequently, 6 studies were included in meta-analysis on the incidence of mortality, adverse events (AEs), and serious adverse events (SAEs), and the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Results: MSC-treated group has significantly lower risk of mortality than the control group (P = 0.03). No statistical significance was observed on the incidence of AEs (P=0.78) and SAEs (P=0.44), and the levels of CRP (P=0.06) and IL-6 (P=0.09) Discussion: MSCs were safe for use, with low risk of mortality and no association to the adverse events. Regarding efficacy, descriptive analysis showed indications of improvement on the inflammatory reaction, lung clearance, and oxygenation status despite the lack of statistical significance in meta-analysis of CRP and IL-6. Nevertheless, more studies are needed for affirmation. Conclusion: MSCs were found to be safe for COVID-19 treatment, but its efficacy is inconclusive due to insufficient studies.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Faculty:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Science
Depositing User:	Ms. Nor Safa'aton Saidin
Date Deposited:	22 Aug 2023 06:51
Last Modified:	22 Aug 2023 06:51
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/1366

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