Evaluation of the Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Graft Versus Host Disease

Overview

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been shown to have immunosuppressive properties. Following a bone marrow/peripheral blood stem cell transplant, a proportion of patients develop a condition called 'graft versus host disease' (GVHD). In this condition the transplanted cells recognize the recipient as foreign and bring about an immune-mediated destruction of tissues. The treatment for this condition is to use drugs that will cause immunosuppression. A small subset of these patients develop a severe form of GVHD (Grade III or IV) which, in spite of the best currently available treatment, is associated with eventual death in more than 90% of cases. The investigators propose to use infusions of expanded MSC from the donor to treat this condition. A few reports on this approach have already been published in peer reviewed journals and preliminary results appear to be promising. The investigators are also aware that larger trials have been initiated to study this. After getting written informed consent, the investigators will infuse expanded MSC into patients who develop steroid-resistant GVHD.

A single center non randomized, non blinded Phase I/II clinical trial is proposed to study the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the management of steroid refractory graft versus host disease (GVHD) following an allogeneic stem cell transplant. Patients who develop grade II to IV GVHD following an allogeneic stem cell transplant will be enrolled. MSC will be expanded from the donors of all patients who develop GVHD. Expanded MSC will be infused at a dose of 1-2 million cells/kg in patients who have steroid refractory GVHD. Response to therapy will be studied using established criteria for grading GVHD.