Minimum criteria for defining induced mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising cell type for cell-based therapies. The therapeutic potential of MSCs has been verified in preclinical and clinical studies, however; low cell number in adult tissues, restricted expansion and differentiation capacity, and donor-related heterogeneity limit their use. To address these issues, there has been considerable interest in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived MSCs (induced mesenchymal stem cells [iMSCs]). Investigators obtain iMSCs from iPSCs of different origins, with variable methods of generation and expansion. Results of current studies have suggested iMSCs as a unique alternative source of MSCs. However, iMSCs are defined using the same criteria (proposed previously for primary MSCs by the International Society for Cellular Therapy [ISCT]) without realizing the distinct nature of iMSCs as compared to primary MSCs. To rationally define iMSCs, additional characterization is proposed along with ISCT's minimum criteria for defining primary MSCs. Minimum criteria for defining iMSCs should include (1) spindle-shaped morphology, (2) plastic adherent growth, (3) positive expression of CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, along with negative expression of hematopoietic markers (CD45, CD34, CD14 or CD11b, CD79α or CD19, HLA-DR), (4) lack of expression of iPSCs induction factors, (5) trilineage differentiation potential, (6) lack of ability to form teratoma, and (7) release of MSC relevant paracrine factors. Defining the minimum criteria for iMSCs will be of great interest in the field and will provide a uniform description and identification of iMSCs to expedite progress in the field. Furthermore, due to increased interest in the clinical use of iMSCs, the above-mentioned additional characterization before the clinical application is important to avoid unwanted complications for recipients.

Insight into generation of induced mesenchymal stem cells from induced pluripotent cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential for use in cell-based regenerative therapies. Currently, hundreds of clinical trials are using MSCs for the treatment of various diseases. However, MSCs are low in number in adult tissues; they show heterogeneity depending upon the cell source and exhibit limited proliferative potential and early senescence in in vitro cultures. These factors negatively impact the regenerative potential of MSCs and therefore restrict their use for clinical applications. As a result, novel methods to generate induced MSCs (iMSCs) from induced pluripotent stem cells have been explored. The development and optimization of protocols for generation of iMSCs from induced pluripotent stem cells is necessary to evaluate their regenerative potential in vivo and in vitro. In addition, it is important to compare iMSCs with primary MSCs (isolated from adult tissues) in terms of their safety and efficacy. Careful investigation of the properties of iMSCs in vitro and their long term behavior in animals is important for their translation from bench to bedside.

Strategies to improve regenerative potential of mesenchymal stem cells

In the last few decades, stem cell-based therapies have gained attention worldwide for various diseases and disorders. Adult stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are preferred due to their significant regenerative potential in cellular therapies and are currently involved in hundreds of clinical trials. Although MSCs have high self-renewal as well as differentiation potential, such abilities are compromised with “advanced age” and “disease status” of the donor. Similarly, cell-based therapies require high cell number for clinical applications that often require in vitro expansion of cells. It is pertinent to note that aged individuals are the main segment of population for stem cell-based therapies, however; autologous use of stem cells for such patients (aged and diseased) does not seem to give optimal results due to their compromised potential. In vitro expansion to obtain large numbers of cells also negatively affects the regenerative potential of MSCs. It is therefore essential to improve the regenerative potential of stem cells compromised due to “in vitro expansion”, “donor age” and “donor disease status” for their successful autologous use. The current review has been organized to address the age and disease depleted function of resident adult stem cells, and the strategies to improve their potential. To combat the problem of decline in the regenerative potential of cells, this review focuses on the strategies that manipulate the cell environment such as hypoxia, heat shock, caloric restriction and preconditioning with different factors.

Stem cell therapy for COVID-19: Possibilities and challenges

Since its eruption in China, novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been reported in most of the countries and territories (>200) of the world with ∼18 million confirmed cases (as of August 3, 2020). In most of the countries, COVID-19 upsurge is uncontrolled with a significant mortality rate. Currently, no treatment effective for COVID-19 is available in the form of vaccines or antiviral drugs and patients are currently treated symptomatically. Although the majority of the patients develop mild symptoms and recover without mechanical ventilation for respiratory management, severe respiratory illness develops in a significant portion of affected patients and may result in death. While the scientific community is working to develop vaccines and drugs against the COVID-19 pandemic, novel alternative therapies may reduce the mortality rate. Recent use of stem cells for critically ill COVID-19 patients in a small group of patients in China and subsequent Emergency Use Authorization of stem cells by Food and Drug Administration to Global Institute of Stem Cell Therapy and Research and Athersys has created excitement among the medical community. As a result, several clinical trials have been registered using stem cells for COVID-19 treatment that aim to use different cell sources, dosage, and importantly diverse targeted patient groups. In this brief review, the possibilities of stem cell use in COVID-19 patients and relevant challenges in their use have been discussed.

Adipose Tissue Grafting Improves Contour Deformities Related Hyperpigmentation of Face

Contour deformities of face are commonly associated with overlying skin hyperpigmentation. Such hyperpigmentation causes aesthetic problems as well as makes contour deformities more prominent. Conventional surgical and cosmetic approaches to treat hyperpigmentation have limitations and therefore it is imperative to use other innovative techniques to simultaneously heal the contour deformity and also to remove hyperpigmentation. The current study aims to evaluate the effect of autologous adipose tissue in improving contour deformities related hyperpigmentation of face. One hundred patients with contour deformities related hyper-pigmentation of overlying skin were enrolled from February 2017 to January 2018. Adipose tissue was harvested from each patient and processed under sterilized conditions. Purified fat collected in a 10cc Luer-Lok syringe was transferred to 1cc syringes and injected into affected areas of face. The patients were followed for 12 months after adipose tissue injections. Both subjective and objective assessment was performed before treatment and 12 months after adipose tissue injections. Results indicated that after adipose tissue grafting, there was a statistically significant improvement in hyperpigmentation of skin. Most of the patients were highly satisfied after use of adipose tissue injections. Image J scanning also showed significant changes in hyperpigmentation of face after adipose tissue use. In all parameters, the patient exhibited statistically significant improvement. In conclusion, autologous fat grafting is a promising and effective therapeutic approach for hyperpigmentation associated with contour deformities of face.

Stromal vascular fraction-enriched platelet-rich plasma therapy reverses the effects of androgenetic alopecia

BACKGROUND

Since antiquity, humans have been trying to devise remedies to cure androgenetic alopecia (AGA). These efforts include use of oral and topical concoctions and hair transplant strategies. As AGA affects people of all colors and creed, there has been a continuous effort to find a magic bullet against AGA. Unfortunately, to date, all the strategies to negate AGA effects have limitations and thus require new treatment options.

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of use of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) in androgenetic alopecia patients.

METHODS

Stromal vascular fraction was obtained by enzymatic digestion of autologous adipose tissue. The patients were divided into two groups, that is, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) group and SVF-PRP group. In PRP group, only PRP was injected, while in SVF-PRP group a mixture of PRP and SVF was injected in affected scalp areas. After two sessions (4 weeks apart), the patients in both groups were assessed and analyzed using various parameters.

RESULTS

Mean hair density in PRP group was increased from 52.44 hair/cm² to 63.72 hair/cm² (21.51% increase); while in SVF-PRP group, it was 37.66 hair/cm² before treatment and 57.11 hair/cm² after SVF-PRP therapy (51.64% increase). Percentage reduction in pull test was more significant in SVF-PRP group (80.78 ± 5.84) as compared to PRP group (34.01 ± 22.44). The physician and patient assessment scores also indicated a significant improvement in SVF-PRP group.

CONCLUSION

A combined SVF-PRP therapy reversed effects of AGA more efficiently as compared to PRP therapy alone.

Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Exhibit Osteogenic Differentiation Potential

Bone regeneration after trauma, pathologic and surgical procedures is considered a major medical challenge. Due to limitations in using conventional approaches, cell based regenerative strategies may provide an alternative option to address such issues. In the current study, we sought to determine the osteogenic potential of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) isolated from impacted 3^rd molars. DPSCs were isolated from human dental pulp tissue (n=6) using explant culture. Growth characteristics of DPSCs were determined using plating efficiency, and the number and time of population doublings. After characterization, DPSCs were induced to differentiate into osteoblasts and were assessed using polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and histological analysis. Results indicated that DPSCs can be isolated from impacted human third molars, and that DPSCs exhibited typical fibroblastic morphology and excellent proliferative potential. In addition, morphological changes, histological analysis and expression of lineage specific genes confirmed osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs. In conclusion, DPSCs isolated from impacted 3rd molars have high proliferative potential and ability to differentiate into osteoblasts.

Efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in androgenetic alopecia patients

BACKGROUND

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a patterned hair loss in both males and females, is a commonly occurring disease worldwide. Conventionally, no curative or satisfactory treatment is available for this condition. Therefore, in the current study, we aim to use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as an alternative treatment option for the AGA patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 patients (20 men and 10 women) with AGA were included in the study between February 2017 and November 2017. Blood (9 cc) from each AGA patient was collected in 10 cc syringe, and PRP was isolated using commercially available kit under sterilized conditions. Isolated PRP was injected in the bald areas of scalp of AGA patients. The whole procedure was repeated after one month (two treatment sessions), and patients were followed for six months. The efficacy of PRP for restoration of hair was assessed using parameters such as hair density, terminal to vellus hair ratio, photographs, pull test, physician global assessment score, and patient global assessment score.

RESULTS

Mean hair density on first visit (before treatment) was 34.18 ± 14.36/cm² which was increased to 50.20 ± 15.91/cm² after 6 months of first treatment (P value <0.05). On a scale of three, mean scores of physician and patient global assessments were 1.45 ± 0.57 and 1.60 ± 0.62, respectively. Mean percentage reduction of hair pulled was 29.2% (P value <0.05) after PRP treatment. Terminal to vellus hair ratio was increased in 60% of patients after PRP therapy. No remarkable adverse effects were noted in patients.

CONCLUSION

Results showed that PRP is an effective treatment option in androgenetic alopecia as indicated by higher hair density, satisfactory physician and patient global assessment scores, and increase in terminal to vellus hair ratio.

Human neonatal stem cell-derived skin substitute improves healing of severe burn wounds in a rat model

Conventional approaches can repair minor skin injuries; however, severe burn injuries require innovative approaches for efficient and better wound repair. Recent studies indicate that stem cell-based regenerative therapies can restore severe damaged skin both structurally and functionally. The current study aims to evaluate the wound healing potential of skin substitute derived from human neonatal stem cells (hNSCs) using a severe burn injury rat model. Amniotic epithelial cells (AECs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated from placenta (a source of neonatal stem cells) by explant culture method. After characterization, AECs and umbilical cord-MSCs were differentiated into keratinocyte and fibroblasts, respectively. Morphological changes, and expression of corresponding keratinocyte and fibroblast specific markers were used to verify differentiation into respective lineage. A skin substitute was developed by mixing hNSCs-derived skin cells (hNSCs-SCs) in plasma for transplantation in a rat model of severe burn injury. Results indicated that placenta-derived AECs and MSCs were efficiently differentiated into skin cells, that is, keratinocytes and fibroblasts, respectively, as indicated by morphological changes, immunostaining, and polymerase chain reaction analysis. Further, transplantation of hNSCs-SCs seeded in plasma significantly improved basic skin architecture, re-epithelization rate, and wound healing concurrent with reduced apoptosis. In conclusion, neonatal stem cell-derived skin substitute efficiently improved severe burn wounds in a rat model of burn injury. Unique properties of placenta-derived stem cells make them superlative candidates for the development of "off-the-shelf" artificial skin substitutes for future use.

Preenrichment with Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Improves Fat Graft Retention in Patients with Contour Deformities of the Face

Quick absorption of adipose tissue grafts makes the outcomes less satisfactory for clinical applications. In the current study, adipose tissue grafts were mixed with adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) to improve retention of adipose tissue grafts and to make the clinical outcomes of fat grafting more reliable. Adipose tissue was either injected alone (conventional group) or mixed with ASCs (stem cell group) before injection. In both groups, adipose tissue was injected at the site of contour throughout layers of tissues till visual clinical symmetry with the opposite side was achieved. The volume of injected fat graft was measured after 72 hours and 6 months using a B-mode ultrasound device connected with a 12 MH frequency probe. The percentage reduction in the volume of injected fat, physician satisfaction scores (Ph-SCs), and patient satisfaction scores (P-SCs) were also recorded. After 6 months, there was significantly lower fat absorption in the stem cell group as compared to the conventional group. Mean physician and patient satisfaction scores were significantly improved in the stem cell group. No significant adverse effects were noted in any patient. Significantly lower absorption of graft due to the use of ASCs improves the clinical outcomes of conventional fat grafting for contour deformities of the face. The current preenrichment strategy is noninvasive, safe and can be applied to other diseases that require major tissue augmentation such as breast surgery. This trial is registered with NCT02494752.

Unfiltered Nanofat Injections Rejuvenate Postburn Scars of Face

The aim of this study was to compare the quality of postburn facial scars before and after injection of unfiltered nanofat. The study was performed in the Plastic Surgery Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from January 2015 to December 2016. Forty-eight patients with postburn facial scars were included; age range was 4 to 32 years with Fitzpatrick skin types between 3 and 4. Patients with hypertrophic scars, contractures, or keloids were excluded. Scars were assessed by a senior plastic surgeon and the patient on the POSAS (Patient Observer Scar Assessment Scale). Fat was harvested from the abdomen and/or thighs with a 3-mm multiport liposuction cannula (containing several sharp side holes of 1 mm) using Coleman technique. The harvested fat was emulsified and transferred into 1-mL Luer-Lock syringes for injection into the subdermal or intradermal plane. Final follow-up was scheduled at 6 months, and scar was rated by the patient and the same surgeon on the POSAS. Preoperative and postoperative scar scores were compared, and P values were calculated. Results indicated that after nanofat grafting, there was a statistically significant improvement in scar quality. The most significant improvements on the observer scale were seen in pigmentation and pliability (P < 0.0001). Thickness and relief were the least improved variables (P = of 0.785 and 0.99, respectively). ImageJ scanning also showed pigmentation change (P = 0.076). A statistically significant improvement was seen in all parameters of the patient section of the POSAS (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, unfiltered nanofat grafting seems to be a promising and effective therapeutic approach in postburn facial scars, showing significant improvement in scar quality. The trial was registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov with following ID NCT03352297.

Outcome of Conventional Adipose Tissue Grafting for Contour Deformities of Face and Role of Ex Vivo Expanded Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells in Treatment of Such Deformities

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the outcomes of conventional fat grafting for facial contour deformities and to describe clinical outcome of a patient with contour deformity of face treated with ex vivo expanded adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) enriched fat graft.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

The Department of Plastic Surgery and Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from September 2015 to September 2017.

METHODS

Patients with contour deformities of face requiring soft tissue augmentation were included. Fat was harvested, processed, and injected following a standard protocol. Both subjective and objective assessments were performed and complications were also noted.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients underwent 51 fat-grafting sessions over a period of 24 months. Eighteen (72%) patients underwent multiple fat-grafting sessions. Mean (standard deviation) soft tissue thickness after 72 hours and 6 months of first fat graft session was 18.62 (7.2) and 12.88 (6.21) mm, respectively, which corresponds to 30.77 (13)% reduction of transplanted fat. Physician and patient assessment scores were 3.42 (0.92) and 4 (1.04), respectively. Few minor complications were observed. In the patient undergoing ex vivo expanded ASCs enriched fat graft, there was minimal decrease in soft tissue thickness of treated area (44 mm vs 42 mm) 6 months postoperatively and patient was highly satisfied with the outcome after the single session.

CONCLUSION

Conventional fat grafting is safe for correction of facial contour deformities. However, procedure needs to be repeated multiple times to produce satisfactory results. Beneficial effects of ex vivo expanded ASCs enriched fat grafting have a potential to alter the current treatment paradigm of fat grafting for soft tissue reconstruction.

Umbilical Cord Tissue Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells can Differentiate into Skin Cells

Autologous skin grafts are used to treat severe burn wounds, however, the availability of adequate donor sites makes this option less practical. Recently, stem cells have been used successfully in tissue engineering and in regenerative medicine. The current study aims to differentiate umbilical cord tissue derived mesenchymal stem cells (CT-MSCs) into skin cells (fibroblasts and keratinocytes) for use to treat severe burn wounds. After isolation, MSCs were characterized and their growth characteristics were determined. The cells were induced to differentiate into fibroblasts and keratinocytes using respective induction medium. Results indicated that CT-MSCs were spindle shaped, plastic adherent and positive for CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90 markers. CT-MSCs also showed high proliferative potential as indicated by cumulative population doubling, doubling time and plating efficiency. The MSCs were successfully differentiated into fibroblast and keratinocytes as indicated by morphological changes and expression of lineage specific genes. We propose that these differentiated skin cells which are derived from CT-MSCs can thus be used for the development of bioengineered skin; however, further studies are required to evaluate the utility of these substitutes.

Effect of mild heat stress on the proliferative and differentiative ability of human mesenchymal stromal cells

BACKGROUND AIMS

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are an attractive candidate for autologous cell therapy, but regenerative potential can be compromised with extensive in vitro cell passaging. Development of viable cell therapies must address the effect of in vitro passaging to maintain overall functionality of expanded MSCs.

METHODS

We examined the effect of repeated mild heat shock on the proliferation and differentiation capability of human adipose-derived MSCs. Adipose tissue MSCs were characterized by means of fluorescence activated cell sorting analysis for expression of CD3, CD14, CD19, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD73, CD90 and CD105. Similarly, the expression of SIRT-1, p16(INK4a) and p21 was determined by means of polymerase chain reaction. Measurements of population doubling, doubling time and superoxide dismutase activity were also determined. Differentiation of expanded MSCs into bone and adipose were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively.

RESULTS

The strategy led to an increase in expression of SIRT-1 concomitant with enhanced viability, proliferation and delayed senescence. The stressed MSCs showed better differentiation into osteoblasts and adipocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that mild heat shock could be used to maintain MSC proliferative and differentiation potential.

Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cell Utility Is Independent of Anatomical Harvest Site

One of the challenges for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is to obtain suitably large cell numbers for therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can easily be expanded in vitro to obtain large numbers of cells, but this approach may induce cellular senescence. The characteristics of cells are dependent on variables like age, body mass index (BMI), and disease conditions, however, and in the case of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs), anatomical harvest site is also an important variable that can affect the regenerative potential of isolated cells. We therefore had kept the parameters (age, BMI, disease conditions) constant in this study to specifically assess influence of anatomical sites of individual donors on utility of ASCs. Adipose tissue was obtained from multiple anatomical sites in individual donors, and viability and nucleated cell yield were determined. MSC frequency was enumerated using colony forming unit assay and cells were characterized by flow cytometry. Growth characteristics were determined by long-term population doubling analysis of each sample. Finally, MSCs were induced to undergo adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic differentiation. To validate the findings, these results were compared with similar single harvest sites from multiple individual patients. The results of the current study indicated that MSCs obtained from multiple harvest sites in a single donor have similar morphology and phenotype. All adipose depots in a single donor exhibited similar MSC yield, viability, frequency, and growth characteristics. Equivalent differentiation capacity into osteocytes, adipocytes, and chondrocytes was also observed. On the basis of results, we conclude that it is acceptable to combine MSCs obtained from various anatomical locations in a single donor to obtain suitably large cell numbers required for therapy, avoiding in vitro senescence and lengthy and expensive in vitro culturing and expansion steps.

In Vitro Differentiation Potential of Human Placenta Derived Cells into Skin Cells

Skin autografting is the most viable and aesthetic technique for treatment of extensive burns; however, this practice has potential limitations. Harvesting cells from neonatal sources (such as placental tissue) is a simple, inexpensive, and noninvasive procedure. In the current study authors sought to evaluate in vitro potential of human placenta derived stem cells to develop into skin-like cells. After extensive washing, amniotic membrane and umbilical cord tissue were separated to harvest amniotic epithelial cells (AECs) and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs), respectively. Both types of cells were characterized for the expression of embryonic lineage markers and their growth characteristics were determined. AECs and UC-MSCs were induced to differentiate into keratinocytes-like and dermal fibroblasts-like cells, respectively. After induction, morphological changes were detected by microscopy. The differentiation potential was further assessed using immunostaining and RT-PCR analyses. AECs were positive for cytokeratins and E-Cadherin while UC-MSCs were positive for fibroblast specific makers. AECs differentiated into keratinocytes-like cells showed positive expression of keratinocyte specific cytokeratins, involucrin, and loricrin. UC-MSCs differentiated into dermal fibroblast-like cells indicated expression of collagen type 3, desmin, FGF-7, fibroblast activation protein alpha, procollagen-1, and vimentin. In conclusion, placenta is a potential source of cells to develop into skin-like cells.

Cryopreservation of whole adipose tissue for future use in regenerative medicine

BACKGROUND

Human adipose tissue (AT) is an ideal stem cell source for autologous cell-based therapies. The preferred setting for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications is the availability of clinically acceptable off-the-shelf cells and cell products. As AT is not always available for use, cryopreserved tissue represents an alternative approach. The aim of the present study was to compare the different properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from cryopreserved AT. We have measured cell recovery, viability, phenotype, proliferative potential, and differentiation into mesenchymal (adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic) and nonmesenchymal (neuron-like cells) lineages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AT (n = 10) was harvested from donors and either processed fresh or cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen dewars. Both fresh and thawed tissues were enzymatically digested. MSCs were analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting for CD3, CD14, CD19, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD73, CD90, and CD105 expression. Growth characteristics of both groups were investigated for population doublings, doubling time, saturation density, and plating efficiency. MSCs derived from fresh and thawed tissues were assessed for differentiation potential both qualitatively and quantitatively.

RESULTS

Adherent cells from fresh and thawed tissues displayed similar fibroblastic morphology. Cryopreservation did not alter expression of phenotypic markers. Similarly, the proliferative potential of MSCs was not compromised by cryopreservation. Furthermore, cryopreservation did not alter the differentiation capability of MSCs as determined with histochemistry, immunofluorescence, and real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that human AT could be successfully cryopreserved for future clinical application and the recovered MSCs were equivalent in functionality to the freshly processed MSCs.

Donor age negatively impacts adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell expansion and differentiation

BACKGROUND

Human adipose tissue is an ideal autologous source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for various regenerative medicine and tissue engineering strategies. Aged patients are one of the primary target populations for many promising applications. It has long been known that advanced age is negatively correlated with an organism's reparative and regenerative potential, but little and conflicting information is available about the effects of age on the quality of human adipose tissue derived MSCs (hAT-MSCs).

METHODS

To study the influence of age, the expansion and in vitro differentiation potential of hAT-MSCs from young (<30 years), adult (35-50 years) and aged (>60 years) individuals were investigated. MSCs were characterized for expression of the genes p16(INK4a) and p21 along with measurements of population doublings (PD), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, cellular senescence and differentiation potential.

RESULTS

Aged MSCs displayed senescent features when compared with cells isolated from young donors, concomitant with reduced viability and proliferation. These features were also associated with significantly reduced differentiation potential in aged MSCs compared to young MSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, advancing age negatively impacts stem cell function and such age related alterations may be detrimental for successful stem cell therapies.

Utility of cryopreserved umbilical cord tissue for regenerative medicine

MSCs can be isolated from adult sources such as bone marrow and adipose tissue. In contrast to these adult tissue sources, harvesting MSCs from cord tissue is a non-invasive procedure and poses no risk to the donor. Stem cell banks offer the opportunity to cryopreserve cord tissue as a source of MSCs for future autologous or allogeneic stem cell based regenerative medicine applications. There is little published data however, characterizing MSCs isolated from cryopreserved cord tissue. The goal of this study was to determine if MSCs isolated from cryopreserved cord tissue are functionally equivalent to MSCs isolated from fresh cord tissue. Umbilical cords were collected from 10 donors. Cords were segmented into 4-6 inch pieces and either cryopreserved or used immediately. Fresh and thawed cord segments were cultured in 7-14 days for outgrowth of MSCs. MSCs were analyzed by FACS for CD45, CD73, CD90 and CD105 expression. FACs analysis confirmed cells isolated from both fresh and frozen tissue expressed MSC markers. Adherent cells were obtained from both fresh and cryopreserved cord tissue segments at a similar plating efficiency. There was no difference in either the number or time of population doublings. MSCs isolated from fresh and frozen tissue were capable of differentiating along adipogenic, chondrogenic, osteogenic and neurogenic pathways, as confirmed by histology and RT-PCR analysis of tissue specific mRNAs. No significant functional differences were observed between MSCs from frozen cord tissue as compared to fresh cord tissue. Cryopreserving cord tissue allows for isolation of MSCs at the point of care when the specific clinical application is known. This may be advantageous as MSC isolation protocols continue to be optimized dependent on intended use.

Preconditioning diabetic mesenchymal stem cells with myogenic medium increases their ability to repair diabetic heart

INTRODUCTION

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential for treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy; however, the repair capability of MSCs declines with age and disease. MSCs from diabetic animals exhibit impaired survival, proliferation, and differentiation and therefore require a strategy to improve their function. The aim of the study was to develop a preconditioning strategy to augment the ability of MSCs from diabetes patients to repair the diabetic heart.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced in C57BL/6 mice (6 to 8 weeks) with streptozotocin injections (55 mg/kg) for 5 consecutive days. MSCs isolated from diabetic animals were preconditioned with medium from cardiomyocytes exposed to oxidative stress and high glucose (HG/H-CCM).

RESULTS

Gene expression of VEGF, ANG-1, GATA-4, NKx2.5 MEF2c, PCNA, and eNOS was upregulated after preconditioning with HG/H-CCM, as evidenced by reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Concurrently, increased AKT phosphorylation, proliferation, angiogenic ability, and reduced levels of apoptosis were observed in HG/H-CCM-preconditioned diabetic MSCs compared with nontreated controls. HG/H-CCM-preconditioned diabetic-mouse-derived MSCs (dmMSCs) were transplanted in diabetic animals and demonstrated increased homing concomitant with augmented heart function. Gene expression of angiogenic and cardiac markers was significantly upregulated in conjunction with paracrine factors (IGF-1, HGF, SDF-1, FGF-2) and, in addition, reduced fibrosis, apoptosis, and increased angiogenesis was observed in diabetic hearts 4 weeks after transplantation of preconditioned dmMSCs compared with hearts with nontreated diabetic MSCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Preconditioning with HG/H-CCM enhances survival, proliferation, and the angiogenic ability of dmMSCs, augmenting their ability to improve function in a diabetic heart.

Comparison of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose and cord tissue

BACKGROUND AIMS

Stem cell therapies can provide an alternative approach for repair and regeneration of tissues and organs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising candidates for cell-based therapies. Although bone marrow-derived MSCs have multi-lineage differentiation potential, bone marrow is not an optimal source because of the isolation process and low yield. The goal of this study was to investigate comparatively for the first time the in vitro regenerative potential of human MSCs from two other sources: umbilical cord tissue and adipose tissue.

METHODS

Cells from each tissue were isolated with 100% efficiency and characterized by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis for CD3, CD14, CD19, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD73, CD90 and CD105. Growth characteristics were investigated by population doublings, saturation density and plating efficiency. MSCs derived from both types of tissues were assessed for differentiation potential qualitatively and quantitatively.

RESULTS

FACS analysis showed no differences in expression of CD3, CD14, CD19, CD34, CD44, CD45, CD73, CD90 and CD105 between cord tissue MSCs (CT-MSCs) and adipose tissue MSCs (AT-MSCs). CT-MSCs showed more proliferative potential than AT-MSCs. When cultured in low numbers to determine colony-forming units (CFUs), CT-MSCs showed less CFUs than AT-MSCs. Cells from both sources efficiently differentiated into adipose, bone, cartilage and neuronal structures as determined with histochemistry, immunofluorescence and real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

MSCs can easily be obtained from umbilical cord and adipose tissues, and it appears that both tissues are suitable sources of stem cells for potential use in regenerative medicine.

Mesenchymal stem cells conditioned with glucose depletion augments their ability to repair-infarcted myocardium

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an attractive candidate for autologous cell therapy, but their ability to repair damaged myocardium is severely compromised with advanced age. Development of viable autologous cell therapy for treatment of heart failure in the elderly requires the need to address MSC ageing. In this study, MSCs from young (2 months) and aged (24 months) C57BL/6 mice were characterized for gene expression of IGF-1, FGF-2, VEGF, SIRT-1, AKT, p16(INK4a) , p21 and p53 along with measurements of population doubling (PD), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and apoptosis. Aged MSCs displayed senescent features compared with cells isolated from young animals and therefore were pre-conditioned with glucose depletion to enhance age affected function. Pre-conditioning of aged MSCs led to an increase in expression of IGF-1, AKT and SIRT-1 concomitant with enhanced viability, proliferation and delayed senescence. To determine the myocardial repair capability of pre-conditioned aged MSCs, myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in 24 months old C57BL/6 wild type mice and GFP expressing untreated and pre-conditioned aged MSCs were transplanted. Hearts transplanted with pre-conditioned aged MSCs showed increased expression of paracrine factors, such as IGF-1, FGF-2, VEGF and SDF-1α. This was associated with significantly improved cardiac performance as measured by dp/dt(max), dp/dt(min), LVEDP and LVDP, declined left ventricle (LV) fibrosis and apoptosis as measured by Masson's Trichrome and TUNEL assays, respectively, after 30 days of transplantation. In conclusion, pre-conditioning of aged MSCs with glucose depletion can enhance proliferation, delay senescence and restore the ability of aged cells to repair senescent infarcted myocardium.

Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells from aged mice have reduced wound healing, angiogenesis, proliferation and anti-apoptosis capabilities

Decline in the function of stem cells with age, such as other cells of the body, results in an imbalance between loss and renewal. Increasing age of the donor thus diminishes the effectiveness of MSCs (mesenchymal stem cells) transplantation in age-related diseases. The clinical use of stem cell therapies needs autologous stem cell transplantation; it is essential therefore to study the repair ability and survivability of cells before transplantation. Bone marrow derived MSCs possess multi-lineage differentiation potential, but aging adversely affects their therapeutic efficacy. MSCs from young (2-3 months) and aged (23-24 months) GFP (green fluorescent protein)-expressing C57BL/6 mice were isolated and their regenerative potential was assessed in vitro. Real-time RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase-PCR) showed significantly higher expression of Sirt1 in MSCs isolated from young than older animals. Down-regulation of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), SDF-1 (stromal-cell-derived factor 1), AKT (also known as protein kinase B) and up-regulation of p53, p21, Bax and p16 occurred in aged cells. Tube formation, wound healing and proliferative abilities of the young MSCs were better than the aged MSCs. The results suggest that age-related increased expression of apoptotic and senescent genes, with concomitant decrease in Sirt1 gene expression, inhibits to some extent stem cell functioning.