Mesenchymal stem cells spontaneously express neural proteins in culture and are neurogenic after transplantation

Potential Applications of Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Cells in Neonatal Diseases

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) has garnered attention as a potentially valuable resource in neonatal medicine. Blood from the cord contains a rich population of stem and progenitor cells, including hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, and endothelial progenitor cells, each offering unique therapeutic potential. Early clinical studies and preclinical trials have suggested that these cells may be able to promote tissue repair, provide neuroprotection, and modulate the immune system, potentially providing promising therapeutic avenues for neonates with limited treatment options. Current research has focused on the safety, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of UCB-based therapies, particularly in neonates with brain injuries, lung diseases, and hematological disorders. Despite positive early results, the field is still evolving, and large-scale clinical trials are underway to further evaluate the potential of UCB-derived cells in neonates. In this review, we examine the diverse roles of UCB-derived cells in potentially treating neonatal diseases such as anemia, intraventricular hemorrhage, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. We also discuss future directions for the application of UCB-derived cells in transfusion and regenerative medicine.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes promote spinal cord injury repair through the miR-497-5p/TXNIP/NLRP3 axis

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) indicate a repairing prospect to treat spinal cord injury, a major traumatic disease. This study investigated the repair effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (BMSC-Exos) on spinal cord injury. BMSCs were collected to extract BMSC-Exos which were identified by different means. The SCI model of rats was established, the motor behavior was scored by BBB field test, and the spinal cord tissues were separated and stained by HE, Nissl, and Tunel, respectively, as well as analyzed to measure inflammatory and oxidative stress responses. PC12 cells were co-cultured with Exos and analyzed by CCK-8 and flow cytometry to measure cell proliferation and apoptosis. BMSC-Exos improved SCI in rats with the recovery of motor function, alleviation of pathological conditions, and reduction of apoptosis, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress. BMSC-Exos increased miR-497-5p expression, and miR-497-5p overexpression strengthened the protective effect of BMSC-Exos on SCI. miR-497-5p targeted inactivation of TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway. TXNIP saved the repair effect of miR-497-5p-carrying BMSC-Exos on SCI rats. miR-497-5p-carrying BMSC-Exos alleviated apoptosis and induced proliferation of H2O2-treated PC12 cells. BMSC-Exos promote SCI repair via the miR-497-5p/TXNIP/NLRP3 axis, which may be a target for alleviating SCI-associated nerve damage.

Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Therapy in Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious condition accompanied by severe adverse events that affect several aspects of the patient's life, such as motor, sensory, and functional impairment. Despite its severe consequences, definitive treatment for these injuries is still missing. Therefore, researchers have focused on developing treatment strategies aimed at ensuring full recovery post-SCI. Accordingly, attention has been drawn toward cellular therapy using mesenchymal stem cells. Considering their wide availability, decreased immunogenicity, wide expansion capacity, and impressive effectiveness in many therapeutic approaches, adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) injections in SCI cases have been investigated and showed promising results. In this review, SCI pathophysiology and ADSC transplantation benefits are discussed independently, together with SCI animal models and adipose stem cell preparation and application techniques. The mechanisms of healing in an SCI post-ADSC injection, the outcomes of this therapeutic approach, and current clinical trials are also deliberated, in addition to the challenges and future perspectives, aiming to encourage further research in this field.

Glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells

Recent studies have revealed that glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells play instrumental roles in tumorigenesis and tumour progression and cannot be ignored as a cellular component of the glioma microenvironment. Nevertheless, the origin of these cells and their roles are poorly understood. The only relevant studies have shown that glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells play a large role in promoting tumour proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis. This review provides a comprehensive summary of their discovery and definition, origin, differences from other tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells, spatial distribution, functions and prognostic and therapeutic opportunities to deepen the understanding of these cells and provide new insight into the treatment of glioma.

Comparative evaluation of divergent concoction of NGF, BDNF, EGF, and FGF growth factor's role in enhancing neuronal differentiation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

MSCs (Mesenchymal Stem Cells) can differentiate into various lineages, including neurons and glial cells. In the past few decades, MSCs have been well explored in the context of neuronal differentiation and have been reported to have the immense potential to form distinct kinds of neurons. The distinguishing features of MSCs make them among the most desired cell sources for stem cell therapy. This study involved the trans-differentiation of Adipose-derived human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ADMSCs) into neurons. The protocol employs a cocktail of chemical inducers in different combinations, including Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and Nerve growth factor (NGF) Fibroblastic growth factor (FGF), in induction media. Both types have been successfully differentiated into neurons, confirmed by morphological aspects and the presence of neural-specific markers through RT-PCR (Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) studies and immunocytochemistry assay. They have shown excellent morphology with long neurites, synaptic connections, and essential neural markers to validate their identity. The results may significantly contribute to cell replacement therapy for neurological disorders.

The potential effect of salvianolic acid B against rat ischemic brain injury in combination with mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and Salvianolic acid B (SAB) are known to exert potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. But the effect of SAB and MSCs combination treatment on the cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CI/RI) is not clear.

METHODS

After the CI/RI animal model established, rats were administered with MSCs and SAB individually or combination treatment. To evaluate the therapeutic potential, behavioral tests, TTC staining, Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and immunofluorescence assays were performed to evaluate the neuroprotection and endogenous neurogenesis. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were performed to evaluate the anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effect. Meanwhile, the expression of the TLR4/NF-ĸB/MYD88 signal pathway-related proteins was evaluated by Western blot.

RESULTS

MSCs and SAB individually or combination treatment have protective effect in CI/RI rats. More importantly, the rats with the combination treatment showed a better behavioral recovery, neurogenesis and smaller infarct size compared with the rats administered with MSCs or SAB individually. Further research showed that the combination treatment decreased CI/RI induced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, including inhibiting the production of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, decreasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, the neuroprotection effect of SAB and MSCs combination was achieved through the regulation of TLR4/NF-κB/MyD88 signaling pathway related proteins, including inhibition the protein levels of TLR4, MYD88, p-NF-κB p65, TRAF6-and action of SIRT1 in brain tissues.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated that the MSCs and SAB combination treatment had better protective effect against rat ischemic brain injury. The combination of SAB and MSCs may provide a potent and promising strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke and is worthy for further development.

MLL1 inhibits the neurogenic potential of SCAPs by interacting with WDR5 and repressing HES1

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy has emerged as a promising treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI), but improving the neurogenic potential of MSCs remains a challenge. Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), an H3K4me3 methyltransferases, plays a critical role in regulating lineage-specific gene expression and influences neurogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role and mechanism of MLL1 in the neurogenesis of stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs). We examined the expression of neural markers, and the nerve repair and regeneration ability of SCAPs using dynamic changes in neuron-like cells, immunofluorescence staining, and a SCI model. We employed a coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay, real-time RT-PCR, microarray analysis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay to investigate the molecular mechanism. The results showed that MLL1 knock-down increased the expression of neural markers, including neurogenic differentiation factor (NeuroD), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), βIII-tubulin and Nestin, and promoted neuron-like cell formation in SCAPs. In vivo, a transplantation experiment showed that depletion of MLL 1 in SCAPs can restore motor function in a rat SCI model. MLL1 can combine with WD repeat domain 5 (WDR5) and WDR5 inhibit the expression of neural markers in SCAPs. MLL1 regulates Hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1) expression by directly binds to HES1 promoters via regulating H3K4me3 methylation by interacting with WDR5. Additionally, HES1 enhances the expression of neural markers in SCAPs. Our findings demonstrate that MLL1 inhibits the neurogenic potential of SCAPs by interacting with WDR5 and repressing HES1. These results provide a potential therapeutic target for promoting the recovery of motor function in SCI patients.

MLL1 inhibits the neurogenic potential of SCAPs by interacting with WDR5 and repressing HES1

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy has emerged as a promising treatment for spinal cord injury (SCI), but improving the neurogenic potential of MSCs remains a challenge. Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1), an H3K4me3 methyltransferases, plays a critical role in regulating lineage-specific gene expression and influences neurogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role and mechanism of MLL1 in the neurogenesis of stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs). We examined the expression of neural markers, and the nerve repair and regeneration ability of SCAPs using dynamic changes in neuron-like cells, immunofluorescence staining, and a SCI model. We employed a coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay, real-time RT-PCR, microarray analysis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay to investigate the molecular mechanism. The results showed that MLL1 knock-down increased the expression of neural markers, including neurogenic differentiation factor (NeuroD), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), βIII-tubulin and Nestin, and promoted neuron-like cell formation in SCAPs. In vivo, a transplantation experiment showed that depletion of MLL 1 in SCAPs can restore motor function in a rat SCI model. MLL1 can combine with WD repeat domain 5 (WDR5) and WDR5 inhibit the expression of neural markers in SCAPs. MLL1 regulates Hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1) expression by directly binds to HES1 promoters via regulating H3K4me3 methylation by interacting with WDR5. Additionally, HES1 enhances the expression of neural markers in SCAPs. Our findings demonstrate that MLL1 inhibits the neurogenic potential of SCAPs by interacting with WDR5 and repressing HES1. These results provide a potential therapeutic target for promoting the recovery of motor function in SCI patients.

The pathological and therapeutically role of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosome in degenerative diseases; Particular focus on LncRNA and microRNA

By releasing exosomes, which create the ideal milieu for the resolution of inflammation, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) enhance tissue healing and have strong immunomodulatory capabilities. MSCs-derived exosome also can affect tumor progress by a myriad of mechanisms. Exosomes function as a cell-cell communication tool to affect cellular activity in recipient cells and include an array of efficient bioactive chemicals. Understanding the fundamental biology of inflammation ablation, tissue homeostasis, and the creation of therapeutic strategies is particularly interested in the horizontal transfer of exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and microRNAs (miRNAs) to recipient cells, where they affect target gene expression. Herein, we propose an exosomal lncRNA and microRNA profile in neurological, renal, cardiac, lung, and liver diseases as well as skin wounds and arthritis.

Isolation, culture, and delivery considerations for the use of mesenchymal stem cells in potential therapies for acute liver failure

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a high-mortality syndrome for which liver transplantation is considered the only effective treatment option. A shortage of donor organs, high costs and surgical complications associated with immune rejection constrain the therapeutic effects of liver transplantation. Recently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy was recognized as an alternative strategy for liver transplantation. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been used in clinical trials of several liver diseases due to their ease of acquisition, strong proliferation ability, multipotent differentiation, homing to the lesion site, low immunogenicity and anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the harvest and culture expansion strategies for BMSCs, the development of animal models of ALF of different aetiologies, the critical mechanisms of BMSC therapy for ALF and the challenge of clinical application.

Inflammatory diseases: Function of LncRNAs in their emergence and the role of mesenchymal stem cell secretome in their treatment

One of the best treatments for inflammatory diseases such as COVID-19, respiratory diseases and brain diseases is treatment with stem cells. Here we investigate the effect of stem cell therapy in the treatment of brain diseases.Preclinical studies have shown promising results, including improved functional recovery and tissue repair in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, strokes,and traumatic brain injuries. However,ethical implications, safety concerns, and regulatory frameworks necessitate thorough evaluation before transitioning to clinical applications. Additionally, the complex nature of the brain and its intricate cellular environment present unique obstacles that must be overcome to ensure the successful integration and functionality of genetically engineered MSCs. The careful navigation of this path will determine whether the application of genetically engineered MSCs in brain tissue regeneration ultimately lives up to the hype surrounding it.

Early committed polarization of intracellular tension in response to cell shape determines the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells

Within the heterogeneous tissue architecture, a comprehensive understanding of how cell shapes regulate cytoskeletal mechanics by adjusting focal adhesions (FAs) signals to correlate with the lineage commitment of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) remains obscure. Here, via engineered extracellular matrices, we observed that the development of mature FAs, coupled with a symmetrical pattern of radial fiber bundles, appeared at the right-angle vertices in cells with square shape. While circular cells aligned the transverse fibers parallel to the cell edge, and moved them centripetally in a counter-clockwise direction, symmetrical bundles of radial fibers at the vertices of square cells disrupted the counter-clockwise swirling and bridged the transverse fibers to move centripetally. In square cells, the contractile force, generated by the myosin IIA-enriched transverse fibers, were concentrated and transmitted outwards along the symmetrical bundles of radial fibers, to the extracellular matrix through FAs, and thereby driving FA organization and maturation. The symmetrical radial fiber bundles concentrated the transverse fibers contractility inward to the linkage between the actin cytoskeleton and the nuclear envelope. The tauter cytoskeletal network adjusted the nuclear-actomyosin force balance to cause nuclear deformability and to increase nuclear translocation of the transcription co-activator YAP, which in turn modulated the switch in MSC commitment. Thus, FAs dynamically respond to geometric cues and remodel actin cytoskeletal network to re-distribute intracelluar tension towards the cell nucleus, and thereby controlling YAP mechanotransduction signaling in regulating MSC fate decision. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We decipher how cellular mechanics is self-organized depending on extracellular geometric features to correlate with mesenchymal stromal cell lineage commitment. In response to geometry constrains on cell morphology, symmetrical radial fiber bundles are assembled and clustered depending on the maturation state of focal adhesions and bridge with the transverse fibers, and thereby establishing the dynamic cytoskeletal network. Contractile force, generated by the myosin-IIA-enriched transverse fibers, is transmitted and dynamically drives the retrograde movement of the actin cytoskeletal network, which appropriately adjusts the nuclear-actomyosin force balance and deforms the cell nucleus for YAP mechano-transduction signaling in regulating mesenchymal stromal cell fate decision.

In Vitro Simulated Neuronal Environmental Conditions Qualify Umbilical Cord Derived Highly Potent Stem Cells for Neuronal Differentiation

The healing of neuronal injuries is still an unachieved goal. Medicine-based therapies can only extend the survival of patients, but not finally lead to a healing process. Currently, a variety of stem cell-based tissue engineering developments are the subject of many research projects to bridge this gap. As yet, neuronal differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), embryonic cell lines, or neuronal stem cells could be accomplished and produce functional neuronally differentiated cells. However, clinical application of cells from these sources is hampered by ethical considerations. To overcome these hurdles numerous studies investigated the potential of adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a potential stem cell source. Adult MSCs have been approved as cellular therapeutical products due to their regenerative potential and immunomodulatory properties. Only a few of these studies could demonstrate the capacity to differentiate MSCs into active firing neuron like cells. With this study we investigated the potential of Wharton's Jelly (WJ) derived stem cells and focused on the intrinsic pluripotent stem cell pool and their potential to differentiate into active neurons. With a comprehensive neuronal differentiation protocol comprised of mechanical and biochemical inductive cues, we investigated the capacity of spontaneously forming stem cell spheroids (SCS) from cultured WJ stromal cells in regard to their neuronal differentiation potential and compared them to undifferentiated spheroids or adherent MSCs. Spontaneously formed SCSs show pluripotent and neuroectodermal lineage markers, meeting the pre-condition for neuronal differentiation and contain a higher amount of cells which can be differentiated into cells whose functional phenotypes in calcium and voltage responsive electrical activity are similar to neurons. In conclusion we show that up-concentration of stem cells from WJ with pluripotent characteristics is a tool to generate neuronal cell replacement.

Current Advancements in Spinal Cord Injury Research—Glial Scar Formation and Neural Regeneration

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex tissue injury resulting in permanent and degenerating damage to the central nervous system (CNS). Detrimental cellular processes occur after SCI, including axonal degeneration, neuronal loss, neuroinflammation, reactive gliosis, and scar formation. The glial scar border forms to segregate the neural lesion and isolate spreading inflammation, reactive oxygen species, and excitotoxicity at the injury epicenter to preserve surrounding healthy tissue. The scar border is a physicochemical barrier composed of elongated astrocytes, fibroblasts, and microglia secreting chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, collogen, and the dense extra-cellular matrix. While this physiological response preserves viable neural tissue, it is also detrimental to regeneration. To overcome negative outcomes associated with scar formation, therapeutic strategies have been developed: the prevention of scar formation, the resolution of the developed scar, cell transplantation into the lesion, and endogenous cell reprogramming. This review focuses on cellular/molecular aspects of glial scar formation, and discusses advantages and disadvantages of strategies to promote regeneration after SCI.

Role of YAP as a Mechanosensing Molecule in Stem Cells and Stem Cell-Derived Hematopoietic Cells

Yes-associated protein (YAP) and WW domain-containing transcription regulator protein 1 (WWTR1, also known as TAZ) are transcriptional coactivators in the Hippo signaling pathway. Both are well-known regulators of cell proliferation and organ size control, and they have significant roles in promoting cell proliferation and differentiation. The roles of YAP and TAZ in stem cell pluripotency and differentiation have been extensively studied. However, the upstream mediators of YAP and TAZ are not well understood. Recently, a novel role of YAP in mechanosensing and mechanotransduction has been reported. The present review updates information on the regulation of YAP by mechanical cues such as extracellular matrix stiffness, fluid shear stress, and actin cytoskeleton tension in stem cell behaviors and differentiation. The review explores mesenchymal stem cell fate decisions, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), self-renewal, pluripotency, and differentiation to blood products. Understanding how cells sense their microenvironment or niche and mimic those microenvironments in vitro could improve the efficiency of producing stem cell products and the efficacy of the products.

Intrinsic Mechanical Cues and Their Impact on Stem Cells and Embryogenesis

Although understanding how soluble cues direct cellular processes revolutionised the study of cell biology in the second half of the 20th century, over the last two decades, new insights into how mechanical cues similarly impact cell fate decisions has gained momentum. During development, extrinsic cues such as fluid flow, shear stress and compressive forces are essential for normal embryogenesis to proceed. Indeed, both adult and embryonic stem cells can respond to applied forces, but they can also detect intrinsic mechanical cues from their surrounding environment, such as the stiffness of the extracellular matrix, which impacts differentiation and morphogenesis. Cells can detect changes in their mechanical environment using cell surface receptors such as integrins and focal adhesions. Moreover, dynamic rearrangements of the cytoskeleton have been identified as a key means by which forces are transmitted from the extracellular matrix to the cell and vice versa. Although we have some understanding of the downstream mechanisms whereby mechanical cues are translated into changes in cell behaviour, many of the signalling pathways remain to be defined. This review discusses the importance of intrinsic mechanical cues on adult cell fate decisions, the emerging roles of cell surface mechano-sensors and the cytoskeleton in enabling cells to sense its microenvironment, and the role of intracellular signalling in translating mechanical cues into transcriptional outputs. In addition, the contribution of mechanical cues to fundamental processes during embryogenesis such as apical constriction and convergent extension is discussed. The continued development of tools to measure the biomechanical properties of soft tissues in vivo is likely to uncover currently underestimated contributions of these cues to adult stem cell fate decisions and embryogenesis, and may inform on regenerative strategies for tissue repair.

Transdifferentiation of canine mesenchymal stem cells into neuron-like cells by induction with β-mercaptoethanol

The objective of this study was to check whether β- mercaptoethanol in a culture medium can induce the neuronal differentiation of canine MSCs. The canine bonemarrow derived MSCs were first pre-inducted with 1 mM BME for 24 hrs followed by induction in a serum-free medium supplemented with 4 mM BME without FBS for another 6 days. Morphological changes in MSCs from spindle-shaped to neuron-like branching from the edges of the cells were noticed at the end of induction. These neuronlike cells were found positive for the immunophenotypic expression of different neural cell markers β-tubulin III, MAP-2 and Nestin. In RT-PCR analysis, it was also evident that the relative expressions of these representative genes were significantly higher in the differentiated cells. On the basis of our observations, it can be summarized that the BME induction of canine MSCs resulted in morphological changes that resembled neuron-like cells which were found to express the representative neuronal markers. Therefore, inducing canine MSCs with BME resulted in the generation of neuron-like cells that might be utilized for the prospective therapeutic applications in veterinary medicine.

Impact of the Epigenetically Regulated Hoxa-5 Gene in Neural Differentiation from Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASCs) may be used in some nervous system pathologies, although obtaining an adequate degree of neuronal differentiation is an important barrier to their applicability. This requires a deep understanding of the expression and epigenetic changes of the most important genes involved in their differentiation. We used hASCs from human lipoaspirates to induce neuronal-like cells through three protocols (Neu1, 2, and 3), determined the degree of neuronal differentiation using specific biomarkers in culture cells and neurospheres, and analyzed epigenetic changes of genes involved in this differentiation. Furthermore, we selected the Hoxa-5 gene to determine its potential to improve neuronal differentiation. Our results showed that an excellent hASC neuronal differentiation process using Neu1 which efficiently modulated NES, CHAT, SNAP25, or SCN9A neuronal marker expression. In addition, epigenetic studies showed relevant changes in Hoxa-5, GRM4, FGFR1, RTEL1, METRN, and PAX9 genes. Functional studies of the Hoxa-5 gene using CRISPR/dCas9 and lentiviral systems showed that its overexpression induced hASCs neuronal differentiation that was accelerated with the exposure to Neu1. These results suggest that Hoxa-5 is an essential gene in hASCs neuronal differentiation and therefore, a potential candidate for the development of cell therapy strategies in neurological disorders.

Connexins in the development and physiology of stem cells

Connexins (Cxs) form gap junction (GJ) channels linking vertebrate cells. During embryogenesis, Cxs are expressed as early as the 4-8 cell stage. As cells differentiate into pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) and during gastrulation, the Cx expression pattern is adapted. Knockdown of Cx43 and Cx45 does not interfere with embryogenic development until the blastula stage, questioning the role of Cxs in PSC physiology and development. Studies in cultivated and induced PSCs (iPSCs) showed that Cx43 is essential for the maintenance of self-renewal and the expression of pluripotency markers. It was found that the role of Cxs in PSCs is more related to regulation of transcription or cell-cell adherence than to formation of GJ channels. Furthermore, a crucial role of Cxs for the self-renewal and differentiation was shown in cultivated adult mesenchymal stem cells. This review aims to highlight aspects that link Cxs to the function and physiology of stem cell development.

Local administration of allogeneic or autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells enhances bone formation similarly in distraction osteogenesis

BACKGROUND AIMS

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a surgical technique to promote bone regeneration that requires a long time for bone healing. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been applied to accelerate bone formation in DO. Allogeneic MSCs are attractive, as they could be ready to use in clinics. Whether allogeneic MSCs would have an effect similar to autologous MSCs with regard to promoting bone formation in DO is still unknown. This study compares the effect of autologous MSCs versus allogeneic MSCs on bone formation in a rat DO model.

METHODS

Rat bone marrow-derived MSCs were isolated, characterized and expanded in vitro. Adult rats were subjected to right tibia transverse osteotomy. On the third day of distraction, each rat received one injection of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), autologous MSCs or allogeneic MSCs at the distraction site. Tibiae were harvested after 28 days of consolidation for micro-computed tomography examination, mechanical test and histological analysis.

RESULTS

Results showed that treatment with both allogeneic and autologous MSCs promoted bone formation, with significantly higher bone mass, mechanical properties and mineral apposition rate as well as expression of angiogenic and bone formation markers at the regeneration sites compared with the PBS-treated group. No statistical difference in bone formation was found between the allogeneic and autologous MSC treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that allogeneic and autologous MSCs have a similar effect on promoting bone consolidation in DO. MSCs from an allogeneic source could be used off-the-shelf with DO to achieve early bone healing.

Integrin α5β1 Mediated Cellular Reorganization in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells During Neuronal Differentiation

BACKGROUND/AIM

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used for yielding neurons in culture to study nervous system pathologies and develop regenerative approaches. In this study, cellular rearrangements of human MSCs related to the expression of the fibronectin common receptor integrin α5β1 and its cell surface localization during neuronal differentiation, were examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Proliferation kinetics of neuronal induced hMSCs (hMd-Neurons) were quantified by BrdU assay, and hMd-Neurons were immunostained for neuronal marker expression. Additionally, cDNA and protein samples were collected at different time points for integrin α5β1 expression analysis.

RESULTS

Endogenous integrin α5β1 expression was significantly upregulated by day 6 and maintained until day 12. Cell surface localization of α5β1 integrin was increased by day 6; the integrin was internalized into the cytosol by day 12.

CONCLUSION

Integrin dynamics around day 6 of differentiation might be involved in neuronal differentiation and maturation or specification of hMd-Neurons.

Compounded topographical and physicochemical cueing by micro-engineered chitosan substrates on rat dorsal root ganglion neurons and human mesenchymal stem cells

Given the intertwined physicochemical effects exerted in vivo by both natural and synthetic (e.g., biomaterial) interfaces on adhering cells, the evaluation of structure-function relationships governing cellular response to micro-engineered surfaces for applications in neuronal tissue engineering requires the use of in vitro testing platforms which consist of a clinically translatable material with tunable physiochemical properties. In this work, we micro-engineered chitosan substrates with arrays of parallel channels with variable width (20 and 60 μm). A citric acid (CA)-based crosslinking approach was used to provide an additional level of synergistic cueing on adhering cells by regulating the chitosan substrate's stiffness. Morphological and physicochemical characterization was conducted to unveil the structure-function relationships which govern the activity of rat dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRGs) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), ultimately singling out the key role of microtopography, roughness and substrate's stiffness. While substrate's stiffness predominantly affected hMSC spreading, the modulation of the channels' design affected the neuronal architecture's complexity and guided the morphological transition of hMSCs. Finally, the combined analysis of tubulin expression and cell morphology allowed us to cast new light on the predominant role of the microtopography over substrate's stiffness in the process of hMSCs neurogenic differentiation.

Progress in the mechanical modulation of cell functions in tissue engineering

In mammals, mechanics at multiple stages-nucleus to cell to ECM-underlie multiple physiological and pathological functions from its development to reproduction to death. Under this inspiration, substantial research has established the role of multiple aspects of mechanics in regulating fundamental cellular processes, including spreading, migration, growth, proliferation, and differentiation. However, our understanding of how these mechanical mechanisms are orchestrated or tuned at different stages to maintain or restore the healthy environment at the tissue or organ level remains largely a mystery. Over the past few decades, research in the mechanical manipulation of the surrounding environment-known as substrate or matrix or scaffold on which, or within which, cells are seeded-has been exceptionally enriched in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. To do so, traditional tissue engineering aims at recapitulating key mechanical milestones of native ECM into a substrate for guiding the cell fate and functions towards specific tissue regeneration. Despite tremendous progress, a big puzzle that remains is how the cells compute a host of mechanical cues, such as stiffness (elasticity), viscoelasticity, plasticity, non-linear elasticity, anisotropy, mechanical forces, and mechanical memory, into many biological functions in a cooperative, controlled, and safe manner. High throughput understanding of key cellular decisions as well as associated mechanosensitive downstream signaling pathway(s) for executing these decisions in response to mechanical cues, solo or combined, is essential to address this issue. While many reports have been made towards the progress and understanding of mechanical cues-particularly, substrate bulk stiffness and viscoelasticity-in regulating the cellular responses, a complete picture of mechanical cues is lacking. This review highlights a comprehensive view on the mechanical cues that are linked to modulate many cellular functions and consequent tissue functionality. For a very basic understanding, a brief discussion of the key mechanical players of ECM and the principle of mechanotransduction process is outlined. In addition, this review gathers together the most important data on the stiffness of various cells and ECM components as well as various tissues/organs and proposes an associated link from the mechanical perspective that is not yet reported. Finally, beyond addressing the challenges involved in tuning the interplaying mechanical cues in an independent manner, emerging advances in designing biomaterials for tissue engineering are also explored.

Effect of TO901317 on GF to promote the differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into dopamine neurons on Parkinson's disease

Background:

Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) could differentiate into dopamine-producing cells and ameliorate behavioral deficits in Parkinson’s disease (PD) models. Liver X receptors (LXRs) are involved in the maintenance of the normal function of central nervous system myelin. Therefore, the previous work of our team has found the induction of cocktail-induced to dopaminergic (DA) phenotypes from adult rat BMSCs by using sonic hedgehog (SHH), fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and TO901317 (an agonist of LXRs) with 87.42% of efficiency in a 6-day induction period. But we did not verify whether the induced cells had the corresponding neural function.

Methods:

Expressions of LXRα, LXRβ, and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) were detected by immunofluorescence and western blot. Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) was detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The induced cells were transplanted into PD rats to study whether the induced cells are working.

Results:

The induced cells can release the dopamine transmitter; the maximum induction efficiency of differentiation of hBMSCs into DA neurons was 91.67% under conditions of combined use with TO901317 and growth factors (GF). When the induced-cells were transplanted into PD rats, the expression of TH in the striatum increased significantly, and the behavior of PD rats induced by apomorphine was significantly improved.

Conclusion:

The induced cells have the function of DA neurons and have the potential to treat PD. TO901317 promoted differentiation of hBMSCs into DA neurons, which may be related to activation of the LXR-ABCA1 signaling pathway.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: therapeutic opportunities and challenges for spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to serious motor and sensory dysfunction of the limbs below the injured segment. SCI not only results in physical and psychological harm to patients but can also cause a huge economic burden on their families and society. As there is no effective treatment method, the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with SCI have become urgent problems to be solved. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted more attention in the treatment of SCI. Although MSC therapy can reduce injured volume and promote axonal regeneration, its application is limited by tumorigenicity, a low survival rate, and immune rejection. Accumulating literature shows that exosomes have great potential in the treatment of SCI. In this review, we summarize the existing MSC-derived exosome studies on SCI and discuss the advantages and challenges of treating SCI based on exosomes derived from MSCs.

Tunable Substrate Functionalities Direct Stem Cell Fate toward Electrophysiologically Distinguishable Neuron-like and Glial-like Cells

Engineering cellular microenvironment on a functional platform using various biophysical cues to modulate stem cell fate has been the central theme in regenerative engineering. Among the various biophysical cues to direct stem cell differentiation, the critical role of physiologically relevant electric field (EF) stimulation was established in the recent past. The present study is the first to report the strategy to switch EF-mediated differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) between neuronal and glial pathways, using tailored functional properties of the biomaterial substrate. We have examined the combinatorial effect of substrate functionalities (conductivity, electroactivity, and topography) on the EF-mediated stem cell differentiation on polyvinylidene-difluoride (PVDF) nanocomposites in vitro, without any biochemical inducers. The functionalities of PVDF have been tailored using conducting nanofiller (multiwall-carbon nanotube, MWNT) and piezoceramic (BaTiO₃, BT) by an optimized processing approach (melt mixing-compression molding-rolling). The DC conductivity of PVDF nanocomposites was tuned from ∼10^-11 to ∼10^-4 S/cm and the dielectric constant from ∼10 to ∼300. The phenotypical changes and genotypical expression of hMSCs revealed the signatures of early differentiation toward neuronal pathway on rolled-PVDF/MWNT and late differentiation toward glial lineage on rolled-PVDF/BT/MWNT. Moreover, we were able to distinguish the physiological properties of differentiated neuron-like and glial-like cells using membrane depolarization and mechanical stimulation. The excitability of the EF-stimulated hMSCs was also determined using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. Mechanistically, the roles of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), Ca²⁺ oscillations, and synaptic and gap junction proteins in directing the cellular fate have been established. Therefore, the present work critically unveils complex yet synergistic interaction of substrate functional properties to direct EF-mediated differentiation toward neuron-like and glial-like cells, with distinguishable electrophysiological responses.

Umbilical cord blood CD34+ cells administration improved neurobehavioral status and alleviated brain injury in a mouse model of cerebral palsy

PURPOSE

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common neuromuscular disease in children, and currently, there is no cure. Several studies have reported the benefits of umbilical cord blood (UCB) cell treatment for CP. However, these studies either examined the effects of UCB cell fraction with a short experimental period or used neonatal rat models for a long-term study which displayed an insufficient immunological reaction and clearance of human stem cells. Here, we developed a CP model by hypoxia-ischemic injury (HI) using immunodeficient mice and examined the effects of human UCB CD34⁺ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) on CP therapy over a period of 8 weeks.

METHODS

Sixty postnatal day-9 (P9) mouse pups were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 15/group) as follows: (1) sham operation (control group), (2) HI-induced CP model, (3) CP model with CD34⁺ HSC transplantation, and (4) CP model with CD34^- cell transplantation. Eight weeks after insult, the sensorimotor performance was analyzed by rotarod treadmill, gait dynamic, and open field assays. The pathological changes in brain tissue of mice were determined by HE staining, Nissl staining, and MBP immunohistochemistry of the hippocampus in the mice.

RESULTS

HI brain injury in mice pups resulted in significant behavioral deficits and loss of neurons. Both CD34⁺ HSCs and CD34^- cells improved the neurobehavioral statuses and alleviated the pathological brain injury. In comparison with CD34^- cells, the CD34⁺ HSC compartments were more effective.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that CD34⁺ HSC transplantation was neuroprotective in neonatal mice and could be an effective therapy for CP.

The application of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and biomaterials in skeletal muscle regeneration

Skeletal muscle injuries have bothered doctors and caused great burdens to the public medical insurance system for a long time. Once injured, skeletal muscles usually go through the processes of inflammation, repairing and remodeling. If repairing and remodeling stages are out of balance, scars will be formed to replace injured skeletal muscles. At present, clinicians usually use conventional methods to restore the injured skeletal muscles, such as flap transplantation. However, flap transplantation sometimes needs to sacrifice healthy autologous tissues and will bring extra harm to patients. In recent years, stem cells-based tissue engineering provides us new treatment ideas for skeletal muscle injuries. Stem cells are cells with multiple differentiation potential and have ability to differentiate into adult cells under special condition. Skeletal muscle tissues also have stem cells, called satellite cells, but they are in small amount and new muscle fibers that derived from them may not be enough to replace injured fibers. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) could promote musculoskeletal tissue regeneration and activate the myogenic differentiation of satellite cells. Biomaterial is another important factor to promote tissue regeneration and greatly enhance physiological activities of stem cells in vivo. The combined use of stem cells and biomaterials will gradually become a mainstream to restore injured skeletal muscles in the future. This review article mainly focuses on the review of research about the application of BM-MSCs and several major biomaterials in skeletal muscle regeneration over the past decades.

Neuro-regenerative potential of dental stem cells: a concise review

This review will summarize the research information regarding the regenerative potential of dental stem cells for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. As compared to existing treatment modalities, the stem cell therapy seems promising, and accumulating evidences about the differentiation of stem cells into various lineages are proving it. The incidence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and peripheral neuropathy is increasing due to the rise in life expectancies of people which have put a huge burden on economies. Finding a promising treatment could benefit not only the patients but also the communities. Dental stem cells hold a great potential to differentiate into neuronal cells. Many studies have reported the differentiation potential of the dental stem cells with the presence of neuronal lineage markers. In this review, we conferred how the use of dental stem cells can benefit the above-mentioned bedridden diseases.

Protective effects of acetyl-L-carnitine against serum and glucose deprivation-induced apoptosis in rat adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Low survival rate of grafted mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in injured tissue is one of the major limitations of stem cell therapy. One of the most important factors that limits the MSCs survival rate and retention is ischemic stress, which can lead to damage to all components of the cell. In particular, it can damage mitochondria, that play an important role in apoptosis with releasing apoptotic factors. Therefore, we investigated the protective effects of Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) against serum and glucose deprivation (SGD) in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs). We measured cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis in cells experiencing SGD stress for 8 h with exposure to varying concentrations of ALCAR. Results showed that ALCAR protects cells against SGD stress by reducing apoptosis. Its protective effects are associated with reductions in cleaved caspase-3 and attenuation of apoptosis. Result showed that ALCAR exhibits protective effects against SGD-induced damage to AD-MSCs by enhancing the expression of survival signals and by decreasing the expression of death signals.

Biosynthesis, characterization and evaluation of the supportive properties and biocompatibility of DBM nanoparticles on a tissue-engineered nerve conduit from decellularized sciatic nerve

In this study, we examined the supporting effects of nano-demineralized bone matrix on the cultivation of Wharton's jelly stem cells on acellularized nerve scaffold. Demineralized bone matrix nanoparticles were prepared and characterized by several experiments. Decellularized sciatic nerve scaffolds were prepared and their efficiency was evaluated using histological stainings and biomechanical testing. Results of histological staining indicated that the integrity of the extra cellular matrix components was preserved. Also, the growth and viability of WJSCs on the scaffolds were significantly higher in DBM nanoparticle groups. We conclude that supportive properties of nano-DBM groups showed better cell viability and a suitable microenvironment for proliferation, retention, and adhesion of cells compared with other groups.

Human olfactory mesenchymal stromal cells co-expressing horizontal basal and ensheathing cell proteins in culture

Introduction:

The olfactory neuro-epithelium has an intrinsic capability of renewal during lifetime provided by the existence of globose and horizontal olfactory precursor cells. Additionally, mesenchymal stromal olfactory cells also support the homeostasis of the olfactory mucosa cell population. Under in vitro culture conditions with Dulbecco modified eagle/F12 medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum, tissue biopsies from upper turbinate have generated an adherent population of cells expressing mainly mesenchymal stromal phenotypic markers. A closer examination of these cells has also found co-expression of olfactory precursors and ensheathing cell phenotypic markers. These results were suggestive of a unique property of olfactory mesenchymal stromal cells as potentially olfactory progenitor cells.

Objective:

To study whether the expression of these proteins in mesenchymal stromal cells is modulated upon neuronal differentiation.

Materials and methods:

We observed the phenotype of olfactory stromal cells under DMEM/F12 plus 10% fetal bovine serum in comparison to cells from spheres induced by serum-free medium plus growth factors inducers of neural progenitors.

Results:

The expression of mesenchymal stromal (CD29+, CD73+, CD90+, CD45-), horizontal basal (ICAM-1/CD54+, p63+, p75NGFr+), and ensheathing progenitor cell (nestin+, GFAP+) proteins was determined in the cultured population by flow cytometry. The determination of Oct 3/4, Sox-2, and Mash-1 transcription factors, as well as the neurotrophins BDNF, NT3, and NT4 by RT-PCR in cells, was indicative of functional heterogeneity of the olfactory mucosa tissue sample.

Conclusions:

Mesenchymal and olfactory precursor proteins were downregulated by serum-free medium and promoted differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells into neurons and astroglial cells.

Effects of Electrical Stimulation on Stem Cells

Recent interest in developing new regenerative medicine- and tissue engineering-based treatments has motivated researchers to develop strategies for manipulating stem cells to optimize outcomes in these potentially, game-changing treatments. Cells communicate with each other, and with their surrounding tissues and organs via electrochemical signals. These signals originate from ions passing back and forth through cell membranes and play a key role in regulating cell function during embryonic development, healing, and regeneration. To study the effects of electrical signals on cell function, investigators have exposed cells to exogenous electrical stimulation and have been able to increase, decrease and entirely block cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, alignment, and adherence to scaffold materials. In this review, we discuss research focused on the use of electrical stimulation to manipulate stem cell function with a focus on its incorporation in tissue engineering-based treatments.

Therapeutic Potential of Amniotic Fluid Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Based on their Differentiation Capacity and Immunomodulatory Properties

BACKGROUND

Amniotic Fluid Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (AF-MSCs) are adult, fibroblast- like, self-renewable, multipotent stem cells. During the last decade, the therapeutic potential of AF-MSCs, based on their huge differentiation capacity and immunomodulatory characteristics, has been extensively explored in animal models of degenerative and inflammatory diseases.

OBJECTIVE

In order to describe molecular mechanisms responsible for the therapeutic effects of AFMSCs, we summarized current knowledge about phenotype, differentiation potential and immunosuppressive properties of AF-MSCs.

METHODS

An extensive literature review was carried out in March 2018 across several databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar), from 1990 to present. Keywords used in the selection were: "amniotic fluid derived mesenchymal stem cells", "cell-therapy", "degenerative diseases", "inflammatory diseases", "regeneration", "immunosuppression". Studies that emphasized molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for AF-MSC-based therapy were analyzed in this review.

RESULTS

AF-MSCs have huge differentiation and immunosuppressive potential. AF-MSCs are capable of generating cells of mesodermal origin (chondrocytes, osteocytes and adipocytes), neural cells, hepatocytes, alveolar epithelial cells, insulin-producing cells, cardiomyocytes and germ cells. AF-MSCs, in juxtacrine or paracrine manner, regulate proliferation, activation and effector function of immune cells. Due to their huge differentiation capacity and immunosuppressive characteristic, transplantation of AFMSCs showed beneficent effects in animal models of degenerative and inflammatory diseases of nervous, respiratory, urogenital, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal system.

CONCLUSION

Considering the fact that amniotic fluid is obtained through routine prenatal diagnosis, with minimal invasive procedure and without ethical concerns, AF-MSCs represents a valuable source for cell-based therapy of organ-specific or systemic degenerative and inflammatory diseases.

Therapeutic Potential of “Exosomes Derived Multiple Allogeneic Proteins Paracrine Signaling: Exosomes d-MAPPS” is Based on the Effects of Exosomes, Immunosuppressive and Trophic Factors

Due to their differentiation capacity and potent immunosuppressive and pro-angiogenic properties, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been considered as new therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine. Since most of MSC-mediated beneficent effects are a consequence of their paracrine action, we designed MSC-based product “Exosomes Derived Multiple Allogeneic Proteins Paracrine Signaling (Exosomes d-MAPPS), which activity is based on MSCs-derived growth factors and immunomodulatory cytokines capable to attenuate inflammation and to promote regeneration of injured tissues. Interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and IL-27 were found in high concentrations in Exosomes d-MAPPS samples indicating strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive potential of Exosomes d-MAPPS. Additionally, high concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR1) and chemokines (CXCL16, CCL21, CXCL14) were noticed at Exosomes d-MAPPS samples suggesting their potential to promote generation of new blood vessels and migration of CXCR6, CCR7 and CXCR4 expressing cells. Since all proteins which were found in high concentration in Exosomes d-MAPPS samples (IL-1Ra, CXCL16, CXCL14, CCL21, IL-27 and VEGFR1) are involved in modulation of lung, eye, and synovial inflammation, Exosomes d-MAPPS samples were prepared as inhalation and ophthalmic solutions in addition to injection formulations; their application in several patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoarthritis, and dry eye syndrome resulted with significant improvement of biochemical and functional parameters. In conclusion, Exosomes d-MAPPS, due to the presence of important anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and pro-angiogenic factors, represents potentially new therapeutic agent in regenerative medicine that should be further tested in large clinical studies.

Role of XIAP gene overexpressed bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of cerebral injury in rats with cerebral palsy

Background

This study is performed to investigate the effects of adenovirus-mediated X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) overexpressed bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on brain injury in rats with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

Rat’s BMSCs were cultured and identified. The XIAP gene of BMSCs was modified by adenovirus expression vector Ad-XIAP-GFP. The rat model of CP with ischemia and anoxia was established by ligating the left common carotid artery and anoxia for 2 h, and BMSCs were intracerebroventricularly injected to the modeled rats. The mRNA and protein expression of XIAP in brain tissue of rats in each group was detected by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. The neurobehavioral situation, content of acetylcholine (Ach), activity of acetylcholinesterase (AchE), brain pathological injury, apoptosis of brain nerve cells and the activation of astrocytes in CP rats were determined via a series of assays.

Results

Rats with CP exhibited obvious abnormalities, increased Ach content, decreased AchE activity, obvious pathological damage, increased brain nerve cell apoptosis, as well as elevated activation of astrocyte. XIAP overexpressed BMSCs improved the neurobehavioral situation, decreased Ach content and increased AchE activity, attenuated brain pathological injury, inhibited apoptosis of brain nerve cells and the activation of astrocytes in CP rats.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that XIAP overexpressed BMSCs can inhibit the apoptosis of brain nerve cells and the activation of astrocytes, increase AchE activity, and inhibit Ach content, so as to lower the CP caused by cerebral ischemia and hypoxia in rats.

YAP/TAZ Related BioMechano Signal Transduction and Cancer Metastasis

Mechanoreciprocity refers to a cell's ability to maintain tensional homeostasis in response to various types of forces. Physical forces are continually being exerted upon cells of various tissue types, even those considered static, such as the brain. Through mechanoreceptors, cells sense and subsequently respond to these stimuli. These forces and their respective cellular responses are prevalent in regulating everything from embryogenic tissue-specific differentiation, programmed cell death, and disease progression, the last of which being the subject of extensive attention. Abnormal mechanical remodeling of cells can provide clues as to the pathological status of tissues. This becomes particularly important in cancer cells, where cellular stiffness has been recently accepted as a novel biomarker for cancer metastasis. Several studies have also elucidated the importance of cell stiffness in cancer metastasis, with data highlighting that a reversal of tumor stiffness has the capacity to revert the metastatic properties of cancer. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis, which plays a prominent role in tissue mechanics. We also describe pathological disruption of the ECM, and the subsequent implications toward cancer and cancer metastasis. In addition, we highlight the most novel approaches toward understanding the mechanisms which generate pathogenic cell stiffness and provide potential new strategies which have the capacity to advance our understanding of one of human-kinds' most clinically significant medical pathologies. These new strategies include video-based techniques for structural dynamics, which have shown great potential for identifying full-field, high-resolution modal properties, in this case, as a novel application.

Characterisation of multipotent stem cells from human peripheral blood using an improved protocol

BACKGROUND

A promising approach of bone repair is to use stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Seeking available source of MSCs still remains a great challenge in tissue engineering and cell therapy. Peripheral blood (PB) emerges as an alternative source of MSCs which can be easily acquired with minimal invasiveness. This study was undertaken to evaluate the multipotency of PB-MSCs and effects of human PB-MSCs transplantation on ectopic bone regeneration in nude mice.

METHODS

Human venous blood collected was mixed with heparin and then red blood cells were removed using red blood cell lysis buffer. Cell suspension was cultured in normoxia-culture and hypoxia-culture conditions, respectively. The non-adherent cells were removed by half changing culture media every three days. Cells were selected due to plastic adherence. The adherent cells were then passaged and subjected to multi-differentiation induction assays in vitro and in vivo ectopic bone formation assay.

RESULTS

Characterization assays indicated that cells cultured under hypoxia possessed potent multi-lineage differentiation capacity and expressed Nanog and Lgr5, as well as a series of MSC surface antigens (including CD29, CD90, CD105, and CD73). Additionally, regenerated bone tissues by transplantation of human PB-MSCs in vivo were confirmed by histological examinations of ectopic osteogenesis assay. A purified population of MSCs can be obtained within a short period of time using this protocol with a successful rate of 60%.

CONCLUSION

We reported an effective and reliable method to harvest highly purified MSCs with potent multi-differentiation potential from human peripheral blood. Lgr5 may be a potential biomarker for identification of a subpopulation of PB-MSCs.

THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE

PB-MSCs is an alternative cell source for cell therapy, which may be harvested, culture expanded and PB-MSCs loaded with β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) may be used to promote bone repair.

Human orbital adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells possess neuroectodermal differentiation and repair ability

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used extensively in cell therapy for repair and regeneration of several organs and tissues. Cell therapy is a valuable option to treat neurodegenerative diseases and MSCs have been shown to improve neuronal function through direct differentiation or secretion of neurotrophic factors. In the present study, we isolated and characterized stem cells from medial and central orbital adipose tissue and found that they could be grown in a monolayer culture. The orbital adipose tissue-derived cells were identical to bone marrow-derived MSCs in their cell surface marker expression, gene expression and multilineage differentiation abilities. The orbital adipose-derived MSCs (OAMSCs) express several neurotrophic factors, possess neuroectodermal differentiation ability and secreted factors from OAMSCs abrogated neuronal cell damage induced by oxidative stress. Thus, OAMSCs might be a valuable cell source for treatment of neurological diseases and to reverse oxidative damage in the neuronal cells.

The effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban on neural differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro

Background

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, known as Indian Pennywort, is a tropical medicinal plant from Apiaceae family native to Southeast Asian countries. It has been widely used as a nerve tonic in Ayuverdic medicine since ancient times. However, whether it can substitute for neurotrophic factors to induce human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSCs) differentiation into the neural lineage remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a raw extract of C. asiatica (L.) (RECA) on the neural differentiation of hMSCs in vitro.

Methods

The hMSCs derived from human Wharton’s jelly umbilical cord (hWJMSCs; n = 6) were treated with RECA at different concentrations; 400, 800, 1200, 1600, 2000 and 2400 μg/ml. The cytotoxicity of RECA was evaluated via the MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and cell proliferation assays. The hWJMSCs were then induced to neural lineage for 9 days either with RECA alone or RECA in combination with neurotrophic factors (NF). Cell morphological changes were observed under an inverted microscope, while the expression of the neural markers S100β, p75 NGFR, MBP, GFAP and MOG was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. The cell cycle profile of differentiated and undifferentiated hWJMSCs was investigated through cell cycle analysis.

Results

RECA exerted effects on both proliferation and neural differentiation of hWJMSCs in a dose-dependent manner. RECA reduced the proliferation of hWJMSCs and was cytotoxic to cells above 1600 μg/ml, with IC₅₀ value, 1875 ± 55.67 μg/ml. In parallel with the reduction in cell viability, cell enlargement was also observed at the end of the induction. Cells treated with RECA alone had more obvious protein expression of the neural markers compared to the other groups. Meanwhile, gene expression of the aforementioned markers was detected at low levels across the experimental groups. The supplementation of hWJMSCs with RECA did not change the normal life cycle of the cells.

Conclusions

Although RECA reduced the proliferation of hWJMSCs, a low dose of RECA (400 μg/ml), alone or in combination of neurotrophic factors (NF + RECA 400 μg/ml), has the potential to differentiate hWJMSCs into Schwann cells and other neural lineage cells.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-019-2581-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Therapeutic effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on tubal factor infertility using a chronic salpingitis murine model

BACKGROUND

The study was conducted to evaluate the application of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) in the treatment of tubal factor infertility (TFI) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, and investigate their effect on fertility in animal models of chronic salpingitis.

METHODS

In this study, we investigated the therapy effects of the transplantation of hUCMSCs in tubal factor infertility using a chronic salpingitis murine model which induced Chlamydia trachomatis. Twenty rats were divided into two groups: control group (n = 10) and treatment group (n = 10). hUCMSCs were given to mice after exposure to C. trachomatis for 4 weeks. After treatment for 4 weeks, five mice were randomly selected from each of the two groups to sacrifice and we examined the organ morphology and pathology, inflammatory cytokines, proliferation, and apoptosis in fallopian tube (FT).The remaining five mice from each group were caged 2:1 with male mice for another 4 weeks, the numbers of pregnant mice and the mean number of pups in the different groups were enumerated and calculated.

RESULTS

Intravaginal inoculation of hUCMSCs alleviated hydrosalpinx of the oviduct. EdU-labeled hUCMSCs are located at the interstitial site of the fallopian tube. Macrophage (F4/80) infiltration was significantly reduced in the treatment group compared with the control group and expression levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 were increased after hUCMSCs treatment. Furthermore, mRNA and protein expression levels of PCNA and Caspase-3 were increased and decreased, respectively, in the hUCMSCs' treatment group compared with the control. Moreover, hUCMSCs' transplantation improved murine fertility.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of hUCMSCs may play an important role in TFI. Our data suggest that hUCMSCs' transplantation contributed to the repair of tubal injury and improvement of fertility, providing a basis for assessing the contribution of stem cells in the oviduct for direct repair of the tube to assist reproduction.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Injury: Current Options, Limitations, and Future of Cell Therapy

Spinal cord injury (SCI) constitutes an inestimable public health issue. The most crucial phase in the pathophysiological process of SCI concerns the well-known secondary injury, which is the uncontrolled and destructive cascade occurring later with aberrant molecular signaling, inflammation, vascular changes, and secondary cellular dysfunctions. The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represents one of the most important and promising tested strategies. Their appeal, among the other sources and types of stem cells, increased because of their ease of isolation/preservation and their properties. Nevertheless, encouraging promise from preclinical studies was followed by weak and conflicting results in clinical trials. In this review, the therapeutic role of MSCs is discussed, together with their properties, application, limitations, and future perspectives.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived and Cultured from Glioblastoma Multiforme Increase Tregs, Downregulate Th17, and Induce the Tolerogenic Phenotype of Monocyte-Derived Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess immunosuppressive properties and have been described in the tumor microenvironment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). This manuscript has two major topics-first, to describe isolated and cultured MSCs derived from GBM (GB-MSCs) and second, to examine their in vitro immunosuppressive capacity. Our results display cells with morphology and phenotype, clonogenic ability, and osteogenic potential, typical for MSCs. Furthermore, the cultured cells show intracellular expression of the neural markers Nestin and GFAP. They express PD-L1 and secrete TGFβ, CCL-2, PGE2, IL-6, and sVEGF. Coculturing of GB-MSCs with PBMCs isolated from healthy donors results in a decreased percentage of Th17 lymphocytes and an increased percentage of Tregs. Regarding the impact of GB-MSCs on monocytes, we establish an augmented expression of CD14 and CD86 along with diminished expression of HLA-DR and CD80, which is associated with tolerogenic phenotype monocyte-derived cells. In conclusion, our results describe in detail GBM-derived and cultured cells that meet the criteria for MSCs but at the same time express Nestin and GFAP. GB-MSCs express and secrete suppressive molecules, influencing in vitro T cells and monocytes, and are probably another factor involved in the immune suppression exerted by GBM.

Pleiotropic effects of Erythropoietin. Influence of Erythropoietin on processes of mesenchymal stem cells differentiation

Structure and synthesis of Erythropoietin: Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone.

Recombinant Erythropoietin (Epoetin): Human recombinant erythropoietin is characterised as a factor which stimulates differentiation and proliferation of erythroid precursor cells, and as a tissue protective factor.

Anti-ischemic effects of recombinant Erythropoietin: Erythropoietin is one of the most perspective humoral agents which are involved in the preconditioning phenomenon.

Erythropoietin receptors and signal transduction pathways: Erythropoietin effects on cells through their interconnection with erythropoietin receptors, which triggers complex intracellular signal cascades, such as JAK2/STAT signaling pathway, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase C, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathways.

Mechanisms of the effect of Erythropoietin on hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells and tissues: In addition to regulation of haemopoiesis, erythropoietin mediates bone formation as it has an effect on hematopoietic stem cells and osteoblastic niche, and this illustrates connection between the processes of haematopoiesis and osteopoiesis which take place in the red bone marrow.

The effect of Erythropoietin on mesenchymal stem cells and process of bone tissue formation: Erythropoietin promotes mesenchymal stem cells proliferation, migration and differentiation in osteogenic direction. The evidence of which is expression of bone phenotype by cells under the influence of EPO, including activation of bone specific transcription factors Runx2, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein.

Conclusion: Erythropoietin has a pleiotropic effect on various types of cells and tissues. But the mechanisms which are involved in the process of bone tissue restoration via erythropoietin are still poorly understood.

MPP+ decreases store-operated calcium entry and TRPC1 expression in Mesenchymal Stem Cell derived dopaminergic neurons

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder involving the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons (DNs), with currently available therapeutics, such as L-Dopa, only able to relieve some symptoms. Stem cell replacement is an attractive therapeutic option for PD patients, and DNs derived by differentiating patient specific stem cells under defined in-vitro conditions may present a viable opportunity to replace dying neurons. We adopted a previously published approach to differentiate Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) into DN using a 12-day protocol involving FGF-2, bFGF, SHH ligand and BDNF. While MSC-derived DNs have been characterized for neuronal markers and electrophysiological properties, we investigated store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) mechanisms of these DNs under normal conditions, and upon exposure to environmental neurotoxin, 1-methyl, 4-phenyl pyridinium ion (MPP+). Overall, we show that MSC-derived DNs are functional with regard to SOCE mechanisms, and MPP+ exposure dysregulates calcium signaling, making them vulnerable to neurodegeneration. Since in-vitro differentiation of MSCs into DNs is an important vehicle for PD disease modeling and regenerative medicine, the results of this study may help with understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying PD.

Repeated Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Treatment Sustainably Alleviates Machado-Joseph Disease

Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) or spinocerebellar ataxia type 3, the most common dominant spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) worldwide, is caused by over-repetition of a CAG repeat in the ATXN3/MJD1 gene, which translates into a polyglutamine tract within the ataxin-3 protein. There is no treatment for this fatal disorder. Despite evidence of the safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in delaying SCA disease progression in exploratory clinical trials, unanticipated regression of patients to the status prior to treatment makes the investigation of causes and solutions urgent and imperative. In the present study, we compared the efficacy of a single intracranial injection with repeated systemic MSC administration in alleviating the MJD phenotype of two strongly severe genetic rodent models. We found that a single MSC transplantation only produces transient effects, whereas periodic administration promotes sustained motor behavior and neuropathology alleviation, suggesting that MSC therapies should be re-designed to get sustained beneficial results in clinical practice. Furthermore, MSC promoted neuroprotection, increased the levels of GABA and glutamate, and decreased the levels of Myo-inositol, which correlated with motor improvements, indicating that these metabolites may serve as valid neurospectroscopic biomarkers of disease and treatment. This study makes important contributions to the design of new clinical approaches for MJD and other SCAs/polyglutamine disorders.