Effects of electricity on the regenerative potential of mesenchymal stromal cells and their secretomes

Childs, M., Passel, T., Tamagnini, F. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8741-5094, Cottrell, G. S. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9098-7627, Iandolo, D. and Widera, D. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1686-130X (2025) Effects of electricity on the regenerative potential of mesenchymal stromal cells and their secretomes. Cell Reports Physical Science, 6 (8). 102786. ISSN 2666-3864 doi: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2025.102786

Abstract/Summary

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are fibroblast-like cells that can be isolated from various adult tissues, including bone marrow and adipose tissue. Known for their regenerative potential, MSCs exert therapeutic effects largely through their secretome, a complex mixture of biomolecules and extracellular vesicles that mediates processes such as tissue repair, immunomodulation, and inflammatory regulation. This review critically examines how electrical stimulation (ES) can enhance the regenerative effects of MSCs. ES is a technique that applies an electrical field to cells to alter their behaviour through the activation of various signalling pathways and by affecting the composition of the intracellular microenvironment and MSC secretome. Additionally, the integration of biomaterials such as 3D hydrogels and conductive scaffolds, and how they may further amplify these effects is highlighted. By evaluating current ES-based protocols and their effects on diverse paracrine functions, this review provides a comprehensive overview of how ES can maximise the regenerative potential of MSCs.