INTRODUCTION
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) defined as the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels in the legs, arms, stomach, or kidneys.
• PAD affects millions of people worldwide, leading to reduced blood flow, pain, and tissue damage.
• Stem cell therapy emerges as a promising approach for managing PAD.
UNDERSTANDING STEM CELL THERAPY
• Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into specialized cell types.
• Two main sources of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.
• Adult stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), can be harvested from various tissues, including bone marrow and adipose tissue.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
• Stem cell therapy in PAD aims to enhance blood vessel formation and promote tissue regeneration.
• MSCs possess angiogenic and immunomodulatory properties.
• MSCs can differentiate into endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, contributing to blood vessel repair and remodeling.
BENEFITS
Benefits of stem cell therapy in PAD:
• Improved blood flow and pain relief.
• Reduced need for amputation.
• Potential for long-term tissue regeneration.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
• Combination therapies, such as combining stem cells with growth factors or gene therapy, show promise.
• Advances in tissue engineering and 3D printing may allow for the creation of personalized vascular grafts.
CONCLUSION
• Stem cell therapy holds great potential in managing peripheral artery disease.
• Stem cell therapy has also shown the ability to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.