Regenerative Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis Using Allogeneic Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Case Report

Abstract

End-stage liver cirrhosis and chronic liver failure are life-threatening, irreversible conditions characterized by hepatocellular dysfunction, fibrosis and impaired regenerative capacity. Although liver transplantation is an effective therapy, it is often inaccessible due to donor scarcity, rejection risks and prohibitive costs, creating a high unmet medical need for novel therapies. Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) transplantation represents a promising alternative, with Adipose Tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) serving as a potential source due to their high proliferation and ability to differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells. This case report details a 69-year-old male with chronic liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension treated with a regenerative protocol of allogeneic AT-MSCs. A total of 160 million viable cells were administered via intravenous infusion over four sessions (June 2024-December 2025). Clinical status and biochemical markers were monitored monthly to assess safety and efficacy. Following treatment, the patient exhibited significant clinical stabilization and normalization of liver enzymes (SGOT and SGPT). Symptoms such as fatigue and weakness markedly improved and the patient reported an overall increase in energy levels. No adverse events or infusion-related complications were observed and follow-up assessments indicated no further disease progression. Allogeneic AT-MSC therapy is a safe and effective intervention for enhancing the clinical status of patients with advanced liver cirrhosis. The precise mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of AT-MSCs remain inadequately understood. Nonetheless, numerous studies suggest that the hepatoprotective properties of AT-MSCs are primarily linked to a paracrine effect mediated by soluble factors, rather than the differentiation capabilities of the cells themselves. These findings suggest that AT-MSCs represent a viable alternative or bridging therapy to transplantation, directly addressing the critical gap in current treatment options.