Promise of autologous CD34+ stem/progenitor cell therapy for treatment of cardiovascular disease

Cardiovasc Res. 2020 Jul 1;116(8):1424-1433. doi: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa027.

Abstract

CD34+ cells are haematopoietic stem cells used therapeutically in patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy due to their regenerative potential and ability to restore the haematopoietic system. In animal models, CD34+ cells have been associated with therapeutic angiogenesis in response to ischaemia. Several trials have shown the potential safety and efficacy of CD34+ cell delivery in various cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, Phase III trials have now begun to explore the potential role of CD34+ cells in treatment of both myocardial and peripheral ischaemia. CD34+ cells have been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in the acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure, and angina models. Several studies have suggested potential benefit of CD34+ cell therapy in patients with coronary microvascular disease as well. In this review, we will discuss the therapeutic potential of CD34+ cells, and describe the pertinent trials that have used autologous CD34+ cells in no-options refractory angina, AMI, and heart failure. Lastly, we will review the potential utility of autologous CD34+ cells in coronary endothelial and microvascular dysfunction.

Keywords: Acute coronary syndromes; CD34; Cardiovascular diseases; Coronary endothelial dysfunction; Coronary microvascular dysfunction; Endothelial progenitor cells; Heart failure; Refractory angina.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, CD34 / metabolism*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / surgery*
  • Cardiovascular System / pathology
  • Cardiovascular System / physiopathology*
  • Endothelial Progenitor Cells / metabolism
  • Endothelial Progenitor Cells / transplantation*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Phenotype
  • Recovery of Function
  • Regeneration*

Substances

  • Antigens, CD34