Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for radiation-induced xerostomia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Radiation-induced xerostomia (RIX) is a frequent, debilitating complication of head and neck radiotherapy for cancer. Preclinical studies suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may protect and regenerate salivary glands, but clinical evidence remains fragmented. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of MSC therapy for RIX patients.

Methods

Comprehensive searches of PubMed, Wiley Online Library, Cochrane, and CNKI were conducted up to July 2025 to identify relevant clinical studies. Two investigators independently screened records. A total of seven trials (n = 360 participants) were included. Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 and R Studio, with unstimulated whole salivary flow rate (UWS) as the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included s

SUBMITTER: Li SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12817539 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature