Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis: current advances and the putative role of mesenchymal stem cell therapy

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are widely used in clinical oncology owing to their effectiveness against various tumors. However, by enhancing their immune responses, these inhibitors can trigger immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affecting various organ systems. Notably, pulmonary complications, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis (ICIP), have emerged as one of the leading causes of treatment-related mortality in patients receiving ICIs. Given the limitations of current ICIP treatments, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising therapeutic strategy owing to their immunomodulatory properties and ability to promote tissue repair. This article reviews recent advances in ICIP and proposes the potential applications of MSC therapy, emphasizing the need for further research into its efficacy and safety to improve ICIP management.