PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Stem cell therapy for treatment of cardiac disease has shown 
therapeutic potential.
RECENT FINDINGS: A number of stem and progenitor populations have been 
identified for potential use in cardiac repair. Each possesses a unique potency 
that justifies consideration for use. Autologous, unfractionated bone marrow 
cells or skeletal myoblasts were used in early clinical trails to evaluate 
reparative effects on recent or record infarcts. In each case, evidence of 
limited improvement in cardiac function was obtained. Myoblast grafts were 
unexpectedly correlated with arrhythmias, thereby identifying a safety issue. 
The small number of patients and the lack of randomized control groups preclude 
conclusions regarding efficacy. Randomized controlled, intermediate-sized, 
double-blind clinical trials must be undertaken to this end.
SUMMARY: Cellular therapy may be useful in the treatment of cardiac disease in 
adults. Appropriate adaptations to meet unique requirements for treatment of 
pediatric cardiovascular disease may be required. Bone marrow and skeletal 
myoblasts do not promote true tissue regeneration in spite of observed 
functional improvement. Trials using cells possessing true potential for 
(trans)differentiation may elucidate the potential and value of this therapy as 
a reparative modality. Development of optimal strategies for targeted delivery 
consistent with pathobiology is of exception clinical relevance.