What is the best stem cell delivery route?
Multiple methods of delivery for stem cells have been investigated but the optimal route is still obscure. The optimal delivery route for autologous cell transplantation not only varies according to the administered cell type but will be influenced in the future by our ability to enhance the migratory capacity of stem cells. Systemic delivery of stem cells can be an easy method for the regeneration of the injured heart but its effectiveness is dependent on successful homing and retention of cells before the secretion of paracrine factors or transdifferentiation, or both. Alternatively, for a direct delivery to the heart, two ways have been experimented: either by an intracoronary arterial route or by injection into the ventricular wall via percutaneous endocardial, percutaneous transcoronary venous, or surgical epicardial approaches. Intracoronary delivery enables the application of a maximum dose of cells homogeneously to the site of injury although this mode is less efficient for del
