Clinical trials of cell therapy for heart failure: recent results warrant continued research

Abstract

Purpose of review: Clinical trials of adult cell therapy for chronic heart failure are often misrepresented in an unfairly negative light. Results are claimed to be 'negative', 'incremental', or 'modest'. This common misconception is detrimental to medical progress and needs to be dispelled.

Recent findings: Contrary to the false narrative of scientific and lay media, the outcome of recent trials of cell therapy for heart failure has been encouraging and even exciting. Specifically, with the exception of ALLSTAR, in the past 2 years several Phase II-III double-blind, randomized trials have yielded impressive results, demonstrating not just safety but also salubrious effects on cardiac function (MSC-HF) or clinical events (MSC-HF, CONCERT-HF, and DREAM-HF) for at least 1 year after a single administration of cells. Such outcomes were neither incremental nor minor, nor achievable with one dose of any other nondevice therapy for heart failure.

Summary: The oft-repeated assertion that cell therapy does not benefit patients with chronic heart failure is based on a misrepresentation of the literature and is contrary to the available scientific evidence. Although the mechanism of action of cell therapy is unclear, research on its use in heart failure should continue, as only rigorous, well designed, Phase III trials can definitely confirm or refute its efficacy.