Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulate the Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review with Perspectives for Hypertension Research

Published: 3 October 2025| Version 1 | DOI: 10.17632/cy4nsvmg4n.1
Contributors:
Daneesha Deivy Kumereshwaran, Sheivanya Gaiyatrri Kuppusamy, Yogeswaran Lokanathan, Arutchelvan Rajmanikam, Kayatri Govindaraju

Description

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recognized for their regenerative, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent preclinical studies suggest that part of their therapeutic effects may be mediated through modulation of the gut microbiota, which is increasingly implicated in cardiovascular health and hypertension via the gut–vascular axis. However, the role of MSC-induced microbiota modulation in hypertension remains poorly understood. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on how MSC therapy alters gut microbiota and outlines opportunities for future research in hypertension. Methods: A systematic search was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines across PubMed, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, EBSCO, and Web of Science for original in vivo studies published in English between 2018 and 2025. Eligible studies evaluated the effects of MSC therapy on gut microbial composition and diversity. Results: Of 1,190 records screened, 31 preclinical studies met the inclusion criteria. MSC therapy consistently improved gut microbiota by enhancing alpha and beta diversity, normalizing the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes (F:B) ratio, enriching short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing genera such as Akkermansia, Roseburia, Blautia, and Faecalibaculum, and reducing pro-inflammatory taxa including Escherichia-Shigella and Desulfovibrio. These changes were associated with improved gut barrier integrity, reduced endotoxemia, and decreased systemic inflammation. Only one study directly examined hypertension, underscoring a significant evidence gap. Conclusion: MSC therapy modulates gut microbiota across diverse disease models, promoting microbial balance and SCFA pathways that support vascular and immune homeostasis. While these findings provide a mechanistic basis for microbiota-mediated blood pressure regulation, focused studies using validated hypertensive models are urgently needed to establish MSCs as a potential microbiota-targeted therapy for hypertension

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This systematic review was done in accordance to the PRISMA guideline

Institutions

  • Universiti Malaya

Categories

Systematic Review

Funders

  • Regen Cell Tech Sdn Bhd
    Grant ID: PV032-2025

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