Targeted cytokine delivery for cancer therapy through engineered mesenchymal stem cells

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified as highly promising entities for the advancement of novel oncological therapies, attributable to their immunomodulatory functions, propensity to migrate towards neoplastic sites, and their ability to circumvent immune surveillance. This review meticulously discusses the potential of genetically modified MSCs to deliver cytokines, which serve as critical modulators of immune responses, for the purpose of targeted oncology treatment. MSCs can be modified through genetic engineering to produce various cytokines, such as interleukins (IL-21, IL-18, IL-12, IL-2) and interferons (IFN-γ, IFN-β, IFN-α). Upon the migration of these genetically modified MSCs to neoplastic sites, they are capable of releasing cytokines in the local microenvironment, thus enhancing anti-tumor immune responses and inducing apoptosis in malignant cells. Numerous preclinical investigations have demonstrated that MSCs engineered for cytokine production can markedly impede tumor progression and elevate survival rates across various oncological entities. Despite these promising results, significant challenges remain in bringing this approach to clinical practice. Key areas of ongoing research include refining delivery methods to ensure precise targeting of tumor sites and understanding the complex interplay between MSCs, cytokines, and the tumor microenvironment. This review underscores the potential of engineered MSCs as a promising strategy to address the limitations of conventional cytokine therapy. MSC-based therapies offer a targeted and efficient approach to cancer treatment, with the promise of improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall efficacy of cancer treatment.