Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Cardiomyocytes Treatment for Coronary Heart Disease

Abstract

In the past few decades, stem cell therapy made remarkable progress in the medical field, demonstrating significant potential in the treatment of various diseases. Particularly, for cardiovascular disorders such as coronary heart disease (CHD), research has indicated that stem cell transplantation holds promise as an effective clinical therapeutic approach. Human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, as a crucial cardiac cell type, have garnered widespread interest in cardiovascular disease research and the exploration of cardiac cell-based therapies. These cells can be cultured in vitro and are envisioned as an innovative avenue for treating heart ailments through transplantation. By culturing a substantial number of PSC-CMs ex vivo, potentially in conjunction with other cardiovascular cell types or progenitors, and subsequently transplanting them to the damaged region of the heart, myocardial regeneration and restoration of cardiac function can be achieved. Nevertheless, despite the significant potential of PSC-CMs, further in-depth research and validation are essential before considering their clinical application, as several critical challenges need to be addressed. This paper primarily focuses on the latest advancements and limitations concerning the use of PSC-CMs in the treatment of CHD, unveiling opportunities and hurdles in cardiac regenerative medicine.