Role of Stromal-Derived Factor-1 in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Paracrine-mediated Tissue Repair

In addition to the multi-lineage differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), studies in recent years have focused on the role of MSC paracrine in tissue regeneration. Due to their paracrine effects in damaged tissues, MSCs may be a promising therapeutic cell type in the treatment of many disorders. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of MSC paracrine on tissue regeneration remain largely unknown, which limits the development of therapeutic applications. Stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) has been demonstrated to be a crucial factor that supports tissue regeneration. MSCs and damaged tissues are the main sources of SDF-1 in the regenerative microenvironment. In MSC paracrine-mediated tissue repair, SDF-1 not only acts as an important MSC-derived paracrine factor that facilitates wound healing but also improves the efficiency of MSC paracrine. In this review, we first outline the sources and regulators of SDF-1 in the regenerative microenvironment. We then summarize and discuss the current understanding of the roles of SDF-1 in MSC paracrine-mediated tissue repair, as well as its underlying mechanisms of action. Illustrating the role of SDF-1 in MSC paracrine-mediated tissue repair will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of MSC paracrine and will aid in the development of strategies to enhance the efficiency of therapies involving transplanted MSCs.