review · Stem Cell Research & Therapy
Mesenchymal stem or stromal cells show considerable promise in regenerative medicine and cell therapy due to their multi-lineage differentiation capacity, tissue protective abilities, and immunomodulatory effects. Achieving the best therapeutic outcomes requires an understanding of the variables that shape cell potency. Factors such as donor age, cell source, and production batch have already received research attention. Although donor sex is recognised as a potential influence on how these cells perform, its consequences have not been examined with equal rigour. This review compiles published evidence revealing donor-sex-related differences across stem cell populations. Accounting for and openly reporting donor sex is highlighted as a vital step towards understanding cell potency and improving therapeutic reliability.
Cell therapies depend on consistent, reliable performance to treat diseases and repair damaged tissues effectively. When biological characteristics such as donor sex are overlooked, therapies may produce unpredictable results in clinical settings. Bringing attention to donor sex helps standardise research and ensures that cellular treatments are evaluated with greater precision and reproducibility.
Developers of cell therapies and tissue engineering products could use donor-sex information to improve quality control and raw material selection criteria. Because this work synthesises existing studies rather than presenting a finished protocol, it remains at an early stage. Real-world application will depend on whether commercial cell manufacturers adopt donor sex reporting and integrate sex-specific screening into their therapy development pipelines.
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Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising therapeutic tool in cell therapy and tissue engineering because of their multi-lineage differentiation capacity, immunomodulatory effects, and tissue protective potential. To achieve optimal results as a therapeutic tool, factors affecting MSC potency, including but not limited to cell source, donor age, and cell batch, have been investigated. Although the sex of the donor has been attributed as a potential factor that can influence MSC potency and efficacy, the impact of donor sex on MSC characteristics has not been carefully investigated. In this review, we summarize published studies demonstrating donor-sex-related MSC heterogeneity and emphasize the importance of disclosing donor sex as a key factor affecting MSC potency in cell therapy.
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DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03722-3
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