Nestin-expressing progenitor cells: function, identity and therapeutic implications

Targeting pericyte retention in Diabetic Retinopathy: a review

Diabetic retinopathy is a common yet severe complication of diabetes mellitus and is the leading cause of blindness in middle-aged adults. After years of poorly managed hyperglycemia, complications begin as non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy but can then progress into the proliferative stage marked by neovascularization of the retina. Multiple pathologic mechanisms caused by chronic hyperglycemia damage the retinal vasculature leading to pericyte drop out and the progression of the disease. This review outlines the major pathways of pathogenesis in diabetic retinopathy, highlighting the protective role pericytes play in preserving the blood-retinal barrier. Given the loss of this cell line is a defining feature of the disease, ways in which to prevent pericyte dropout within retinal vasculature is discussed, targeting various pathogenesis pathways of diabetic retinopathy.

Parental exposure to acrylamide disrupts sphingolipid metabolism and impairs transgenerational neurodevelopment in zebrafish (Danio rerio) offspring

Acrylamide exposure has become an emerging environmental and food safety issue, and its toxicity poses a potential threat to public health worldwide. However, limited studies have paid attention to the detrimental effects of parental exposure to acrylamide on the neurodevelopment in zebrafish offspring. In this study, the embryos were life-cycle exposed to acrylamide (0.125 and 0.25 mM) for 180 days. Subsequently, these zebrafish (F0) were allowed to mate, and their offspring (F1) were collected to culture in clean water from embryos to adults. We employed developmental and morphological observations, behavioral profiles, metabolomics analyses, and transcriptional level examinations to investigate the transgenerational neurotoxicity with parental exposure to acrylamide. Our results showed that parental exposure to acrylamide harms the birth, development, and behavior characterization of the F1 zebrafish larvae, including poor egg quality, increased mortality rates, abnormal heart rates, slowed swimming activity, and heightened anxiety behavior, and continuously disturbs mental health in F1 adult zebrafish. The transcriptional analysis showed that parental chronic exposure to acrylamide deteriorates the neurodevelopment in F1 larvae. In addition, metabolomics analyses revealed that sphingolipid metabolism disruption may be associated with the observed abnormal development and behavioral response in unexposed F1 offspring. Overall, the present study provides pioneer evidence that acrylamide induces transgenerational neurotoxicity via targeting and disrupting sphingolipid metabolism, which reveals intergenerational transmission of acrylamide exposure and unravels its spatiotemporal toxicological effect on neurodevelopment.

Engraftment of human mesenchymal stem cells in a severely immunodeficient mouse

The transplantation of human mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (hMSCs) has potential as a curative and permanent therapy for congenital skeletal diseases. However, the self-renewal and differentiation capacities of hMSCs markedly vary. Therefore, cell proliferation and trilineage differentiation capacities were tested in vitro to characterize hMSCs before their clinical use. However, it remains unclear whether the ability of hMSCs in vitro accurately predicts that in living animals. The xenograft model is an alternative method for validating clinical MSCs. Nevertheless, the protocol still needs refinement, and it has yet to be established whether hMSCs, which are expanded in culture for clinical use, retain the ability to engraft and differentiate into adipogenic, osteogenic, and chondrogenic lineage cells in transplantation settings. In the present study, to establish a robust xenograft model of MSCs, we examined the delivery routes of hMSCs and the immunological state of recipients. The intra-arterial injection of hMSCs into X-ray-irradiated (IR) NOG, a severely immunodeficient mouse, achieved the highest engraftment but failed to sustain long-term engraftment. We demonstrated that graft cells localized to a collagenase-released fraction (CR), in which endogenous colony-forming cells reside. We also showed that Pdgfrα+Sca1+ MSCs (PαS), which reside in the CR fraction, resisted IR. These results show that our protocol enables hMSCs to fulfill a high level of engraftment in mouse bone marrow in the short term. In contrast, long-term reconstitution was restricted, at least partially, because of IR-resistant endogenous MSCs.

The order of green and red LEDs irradiation affects the neural differentiation of human umbilical cord matrix-derived mesenchymal cells

Different wavelengths emitted from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are known as an influential factor in proliferation and differentiation of various cell types. Since human umbilical cord matrix-derived mesenchymal cells (hUCMs) are ideal tools for human regenerative medicine clinical trials and stem cell researches, in the present study we investigated the neurogenesis effects of single and intermittent green and red LED irradiation on hUCM cells. Exposure of hUCMs to single and intermittent green (530 nm, 1.59 J/cm2) and red (630 nm, 0.318 J/cm2) lights significantly increased the expression of specific genes including nestin, β-tubulin III and Olig2. Additionally, immunocytochemical analysis confirmed the expression of specific neural-related proteins including nestin, β-tubulin III, Olig2 and GFAP. Also, alternating exposure of hUCM cells to green and red lights increased the expression of some neural markers more than either light alone. Further research are required to develop the application of LED irradiation as a useful tool for therapeutic purposes including neural repair and regeneration.

Human neural stem cells derived from fetal human brain communicate with each other and rescue ischemic neuronal cells through tunneling nanotubes

Pre-clinical trials have demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of transplanted human neural stem cells (hNSCs) during the post-ischemic phase. However, the exact neuroprotective mechanism remains unclear. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long plasma membrane bridges that physically connect distant cells, enabling the intercellular transfer of mitochondria and contributing to post-ischemic repair processes. Whether hNSCs communicate through TNTs and their role in post-ischemic neuroprotection remains unknown. In this study, non-immortalized hNSC lines derived from fetal human brain tissues were examined to explore these possibilities and assess the post-ischemic neuroprotection potential of these hNSCs. Using Tau-STED super-resolution confocal microscopy, live cell time-lapse fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, and direct or non-contact homotypic co-cultures, we demonstrated that hNSCs generate nestin-positive TNTs in both 3D neurospheres and 2D cultures, through which they transfer functional mitochondria. Co-culturing hNSCs with differentiated SH-SY5Y (dSH-SY5Y) revealed heterotypic TNTs allowing mitochondrial transfer from hNSCs to dSH-SY5Y. To investigate the role of heterotypic TNTs in post-ischemic neuroprotection, dSH-SY5Y were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) followed by reoxygenation (OGD/R) with or without hNSCs in direct or non-contact co-cultures. Compared to normoxia, OGD/R dSH-SY5Y became apoptotic with impaired electrical activity. When OGD/R dSH-SY5Y were co-cultured in direct contact with hNSCs, heterotypic TNTs enabled the transfer of functional mitochondria from hNSCs to OGD/R dSH-SY5Y, rescuing them from apoptosis and restoring the bioelectrical profile toward normoxic dSH-SY5Y. This complete neuroprotection did not occur in the non-contact co-culture. In summary, our data reveal the presence of a functional TNTs network containing nestin within hNSCs, demonstrate the involvement of TNTs in post-ischemic neuroprotection mediated by hNSCs, and highlight the strong efficacy of our hNSC lines in post-ischemic neuroprotection. Human neural stem cells (hNSCs) communicate with each other and rescue ischemic neurons through nestin-positive tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). A Functional mitochondria are exchanged via TNTs between hNSCs. B hNSCs transfer functional mitochondria to ischemic neurons through TNTs, rescuing neurons from ischemia/reperfusion ROS-dependent apoptosis.

Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Neural Precursor Cell (NPC) Transplantation Synergistically Promote Anatomical and Functional Recovery in a Hypoxic-Ischemic Mouse Model

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by pronounced motor dysfunction and resulting in physical disability. Neural precursor cells (NPCs) have shown therapeutic promise in mouse models of hypoxic-ischemic (HI) perinatal brain injury, which mirror hemiplegic CP. Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) enhances the functional use of the impaired limb and has emerged as a beneficial intervention for hemiplegic CP. However, the precise mechanisms and optimal application of CIMT remain poorly understood. The potential synergy between a regenerative approach using NPCs and a rehabilitation strategy using CIMT has not been explored. We employed the Rice-Vannucci HI model on C57Bl/6 mice at postnatal day (PND) 7, effectively replicating the clinical and neuroanatomical characteristics of hemiplegic CP. NPCs were transplanted in the corpus callosum (CC) at PND21, which is the age corresponding to a 2-year-old child from a developmental perspective and until which CP is often not formally diagnosed, followed or not by Botulinum toxin injections in the unaffected forelimb muscles at PND23, 26, 29 and 32 to apply CIMT. Both interventions led to enhanced CC myelination and significant functional recovery (as shown by rearing and gait analysis testing), through the recruitment of endogenous oligodendrocytes. The combinatorial treatment indicated a synergistic effect, as shown by newly recruited oligodendrocytes and functional recovery. This work demonstrates the mechanistic effects of CIMT and NPC transplantation and advocates for their combined therapeutic potential in addressing hemiplegic CP.

Proneurogenic actions of follicle-stimulating hormone on neurospheres derived from ovarian cortical cells in vitro

BACKGROUND

Neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) from extra-neural origin represent a valuable tool for autologous cell therapy and research in neurogenesis. Identification of proneurogenic biomolecules on NSPCs would improve the success of cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Preliminary data suggested that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) might act in this fashion. This study was aimed to elucidate whether FSH promotes development, self-renewal, and is proneurogenic on neurospheres (NS) derived from sheep ovarian cortical cells (OCCs). Two culture strategies were carried out: (a) long-term, 21-days NS culture (control vs. FSH group) with NS morphometric evaluation, gene expression analyses of stemness and lineage markers, and immunolocalization of NSPCs antigens; (b) NS assay to demonstrate FSH actions on self-renewal and differentiation capacity of NS cultured with one of three defined media: M1: positive control with EGF/FGF2; M2: control; and M3: M2 supplemented with FSH.

RESULTS

In long-term cultures, FSH increased NS diameters with respect to control group (302.90 ± 25.20 μm vs. 183.20 ± 7.63 on day 9, respectively), upregulated nestin (days 15/21), Sox2 (day 21) and Pax6 (days 15/21) and increased the percentages of cells immunolocalizing these proteins. During NS assays, FSH stimulated NSCPs proliferation, and self-renewal, increasing NS diameters during the two expansion periods and the expression of the neuron precursor transcript DCX during the second one. In the FSH-group there were more frequent cell-bridges among neighbouring NS.

CONCLUSIONS

FSH is a proneurogenic hormone that promotes OCC-NSPCs self-renewal and NS development. Future studies will be necessary to support the proneurogenic actions of FSH and its potential use in basic and applied research related to cell therapy.

Differentiation of cultured hair follicle neural crest stem cells into functional melanocytes

Many autologous melanocytes are required for surgical treatment of depigmentation diseases such as vitiligo. However, primary cultured melanocytes have a limited number of in vitro passages. The production of functional epidermal melanocytes from stem cells provides an unprecedented source of cell therapy for vitiligo. This study explores the clinical application of melanocytes induced by hair follicle neural crest stem cells (HFNCSCs). This study established an in vitro differentiation model of HFNCSCs into melanocytes. Results demonstrate that most differentiated melanocytes expressed the proteins C-KIT, MITF, S-100B, TYRP1, TYRP2, and tyrosinase. The HFNCSC-derived melanocytes were successfully transplanted onto the dorsal skin of mice and survived in the local tissues, expressing marker protein of melanocytes. In conclusion, HFNCSCs in mice can be induced to differentiate into melanocytes under specific conditions. These induced melanocytes exhibit the potential to facilitate repigmentation in the lesion areas of vitiligo-affected mice, suggesting a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention.

Disruption of Circadian Clock Induces Abnormal Mammary Morphology and Aggressive Basal Tumorigenesis by Enhancing LILRB4 Signaling

Epidemiological studies have shown that circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) is associated with the risk of breast cancer. However, the role of CRD in mammary gland morphology and aggressive basal mammary tumorigenesis and the molecular mechanisms underlying CRD and cancer risk remain unknown. To investigate the effect of CRD on aggressive tumorigenesis, a genetically engineered mouse model that recapitulates the human basal type of breast cancer was used for this study. The effect of CRD on mammary gland morphology was investigated using wild-type mice model. The impact of CRD on the tumor microenvironment was investigated using the tumors from LD12:12 and CRD mice via scRNA seq. ScRNA seq was substantiated by multiplexing immunostaining, flow cytometry, and realtime PCR. The effect of LILRB4 immunotherapy on CRD-induced tumorigenesis was also investigated. Here we identified the impact of CRD on basal tumorigenesis and mammary gland morphology and identified the role of LILRB4 on CRD-induced lung metastasis. We found that chronic CRD disrupted mouse mammary gland morphology and increased tumor burden, and lung metastasis and induced an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by enhancing LILRB4a expression. Moreover, CRD increased the M2-macrophage and regulatory T-cell populations but decreased the M1-macrophage, and dendritic cell populations. Furthermore, targeted immunotherapy against LILRB4 reduced CRD-induced immunosuppressive microenvironment and lung metastasis. These findings identify and implicate LILRB4a as a link between CRD and aggressive mammary tumorigenesis. This study also establishes the potential role of the targeted LILRB4a immunotherapy as an inhibitor of CRD-induced lung metastasis.

Hippocampal neurogenesis modulated by Quinic acid: A therapeutic strategy for the neurodegenerative disorders

Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) reside in the brain and participate in the mechanism of neurogenesis that permits the brain to generate the building blocks for enhancement of cognitive abilities and acquisition of new skills. The existence of NPCs in brain has opened a novel dimension of research to explore their potential for treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders. The present study provides novel insights into the intracellular mechanisms in neuronal cells proliferation, maturation and differentiation regulated by Quinic acid (QA). Furthermore, this study might help in discovery and development of lead molecule that can overcome the challenges in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The growth supporting effect of QA was studied using MTT assay. For that purpose, hippocampal cell cultures of neonatal rats were treated with different concentrations of QA and incubated for 24, 48 and 72 h. Gene and protein expressions of the selected molecular markers nestin, neuron-specific class III beta-tubulin (Tuj-1), neuronal nuclear protein (NeuN), neuronal differentiation 1 (NeuroD1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), neuroligin (NLGN) and vimentin were analyzed. QA-induced cell proliferation and differentiation of hippocampal progenitor cells was also accompanied by significantly increased expression of progenitor and immature neuronal marker, mature neuronal marker and differentiating factor, that is, nestin, Tuj-1, NeuN and NeuroD1, respectively. On the other hand, vimentin downregulation and constant GFAP expression were observed following QA treatment. Additionally, the effects of QA on the recovery of stressed cells was studied using in vitro model of oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). It was observed that hippocampal cells were able to recover from OGD following the treatment with QA. These findings suggest that QA treatment promotes hippocampal neurogenesis by proliferating and differentiating of NPCs and recovers neurons from stress caused by OGD. Thus, the neurogenic potential of QA can be explored for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.

Exosomes as therapeutic and drug delivery vehicle for neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative disorders are complex, progressive, and life-threatening. They cause mortality and disability for millions of people worldwide. Appropriate treatment for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is still clinically lacking due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Developing an effective transport system that can cross the BBB and enhance the therapeutic effect of neuroprotective agents has been a major challenge for NDs. Exosomes are endogenous nano-sized vesicles that naturally carry biomolecular cargoes. Many studies have indicated that exosome content, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), possess biological activities by targeting several signaling pathways involved in apoptosis, inflammation, autophagy, and oxidative stress. Exosome content can influence cellular function in healthy or pathological ways. Furthermore, since exosomes reflect the features of the parental cells, their cargoes offer opportunities for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention of diseases. Exosomes have unique characteristics that make them ideal for delivering drugs directly to the brain. These characteristics include the ability to pass through the BBB, biocompatibility, stability, and innate targeting properties. This review emphasizes the role of exosomes in alleviating NDs and discusses the associated signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, the unique biological features of exosomes, making them a promising natural transporter for delivering various medications to the brain to combat several NDs, are also discussed.

Investigation of YAP-1, OTX-2, and nestin protein expressions in neuroblastoma: a preliminary study

OBJECTIVES

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood. YAP (Yes-associated protein) is a highly expressed protein in NB. Nestin is an important marker of neuronal differentiation in NB. Orthodenticle homeobox (OTX) is a transcription factor and is overexpressed in blastoma-derived tumors. The aim of this study was to examine the potential roles of YAP-1, Nestin, and OTX-2 proteins in prognosis and risk stratification in neuroblastoma METHODS: Tumor sections of 56 patients with different NB risk groups were analyzed. YAP-1, Nestin, and OTX-2 protein expression levels were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining in NB patient tissue samples.

RESULTS

YAP-1, Nestin, and OTX-2 protein expression levels were evaluated together with the clinical findings of NB patients. YAP-1 was expressed in 18% of all tissues, while Nestin was expressed in 20.4%. OTX-2 protein expression was found in 41.1% of the NB patients. YAP-1 was expressed in 26.9% of high-risk and 11.5% of low-risk patients. Nestin was expressed in 24.4% high-risk and 33.3% low-risk patients. OTX-2 was expressed in 68.2% high-risk and 60% low-risk patients.YAP-1 was shown to provide survival advantages among risk groups.

INTERPRETATION

The findings of this study support that YAP-1 may be a potential prognostic biomarker for staging and risk-group assignment of NB patients. YAP-1 expression in neuroblastoma is associated with significantly poorer survival probabilities and should be considered as a potential therapeutic target. OTX-2 is a promising predictive biomarker candidate, but its mechanisms need further investigation in neuroblastoma, as nestin expression is not significantly linked to patient survival.

The interferon-induced protein, IFIT2, requires RNA-binding activity and neuronal expression to protect mice from intranasal vesicular stomatitis virus infection

The interferon (IFN) system protects mammals from diseases caused by virus infections. IFN synthesis is induced by pattern recognition receptor signaling pathways activated by virus infection. IFN is secreted from the infected cells and acts upon neighboring cells by binding cell surface receptors and triggering induction of hundreds of IFN-stimulated genes and proteins, many of which block different steps of virus replication. The IFN-induced tetratricopeptide repeat proteins (IFIT) are a family of RNA-binding proteins. We and others have previously reported that IFIT2 protects mice from many neurotropic RNA viruses; indeed, Ifit2-/- mice are very susceptible to intranasal or subcutaneous infections with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Here, using a newly generated conditional knockout mouse, we report that ablation of Ifit2 expression only in neuronal cells was sufficient to render mice susceptible to neuropathogenesis caused by intranasal, but not subcutaneous, infection of VSV. Another genetically modified mouse line, expressing a mutant IFIT2 that cannot bind RNA, was as susceptible to VSV infection as Ifit2-/- mice. These results demonstrated that IFIT2 RNA-binding activity is essential for protecting mice against neurological diseases caused by intranasal infection of VSV.IMPORTANCEInterferon's (IFN's) antiviral effects are mediated by the proteins encoded by the interferon-stimulated genes. IFN-stimulated genes (IFIT2) is one such protein, which inhibits replication of many RNA viruses in the mouse brain and the resultant neuropathology. Our study sheds light on how IFIT2 works. By ablating Ifit2 expression only in neuronal cells, using a newly generated conditional knockout mouse line, we showed that Ifit2 induction in the neurons of the infected mouse was necessary for antiviral function of interferon. IFIT2 has no known enzyme activity; instead, it functions by binding to cellular or viral proteins or RNAs. We engineered a new mouse line that expressed a mutant IFIT2 that cannot bind RNA. These mice were very susceptible to infection with vesicular stomatitis virus indicating that the RNA-binding property of IFIT2 was essential for its antiviral function in vivo.

Nootkatone Counteracts Melamine-Mediated Nephrotoxicity via Modulation of Intermediate Filament Proteins, Oxidative, Inflammatory, and Apoptotic Events

Background

Nootkatone (NK), a bioactive sesquiterpene ketone, is a major ingredient in grapefruit that has distinguished biological activities. Melamine (MM), a food adulterant, was reported to induce toxic effects including renal disorders. Hence, this protocol was devoted to evaluate the renoprotective impact of NK toward MM-evoked renal damage.

Methods

Rats were either exposed to MM (700 mg/kg) or a combination of MM and two doses of NK (5 and 10 mg/kg).

Results

The results showed that NK therapy notably decreased the kidney functional parameters, along with KIM-1 and NGAL expressions of MM group. Furthermore, a decrease in MDA and NO levels as well as an elevation in SOD, CAT, GSH, and SOD and NRF2 mRNA expression in the NK group demonstrated NK's ability to enhance the renal antioxidant defense of the MM group. Significant suppression in renal inflammatory markers was achieved by NK via lessening of IL-1β and TNF-α, besides downregulation of NF-κB and IL-1β expressions. NK also downregulated vimentin, nestin, and desmin in the MM group. Additionally, in response to the MM exposure, NK hindered renal apoptosis by decreasing caspase-3 expression and restoring renal histopathological features.

Conclusion

These outcomes suggest that NK can be considered as a prospective candidate to guard against MM exposure-mediated renal toxic effects.

Electrospun PAN/PANI/CNT scaffolds and electrical pulses: a pathway to stem cell-derived nerve regeneration

Biocompatible polymer-based scaffolds hold great promise for neural repair, especially when they are coupled with electrostimulation to induce neural differentiation. In this study, a combination of polyacrylonitrile/polyaniline (PAN/PANI) and Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) were used to fabricate three different biomimetic electrospun scaffolds (samples 1, 2 and 3 containing 0.26 wt%, 1 wt% and 2 wt% of CNTs, respectively). These scaffolds underwent thorough characterization for assessing electroconductivity, tensile strength, wettability, degradability, swelling, XRD, and FTIR data. Notably, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed a three-dimensional scaffold morphology with aligned fibers ranging from 60 nm to 292 nm in diameter. To comprehensively investigate the impact of electrical stimulation on the nervous differentiation of the stem cells seeded on these scaffolds, cell morphology and adhesion were assessed based on SEM images. Additionally, scaffold biocompatibility was studied through MTT assay. Importantly, Real-Time PCR results indicated the expression of neural markers-Nestin,β-tubulin III, and MAP2-by the cells cultured on these samples. In comparison with the control group, samples 1 and 2 exhibited significant increases in Nestin marker expression, indicating early stages of neuronal differentiation, whileβ-tubulin III expression was significantly reduced and MAP2 expression remained statistically unchanged. In contrast, sample 3 did not display a statistically significant upturn in Nestin maker expression, while showcasing remarkable increases in the expression of both MAP2 andβ-tubulin III, as markers of the end stages of differentiation, leading to postmitotic neurons. These results could be attributed to the higher electroconductivity of S3 compared to other samples. Our findings highlight the biomimetic potential of the prepared scaffolds for neural repair, illustrating their effectiveness in guiding stem cell differentiation toward a neural lineage.

Significance of Nestin and CD133 as cancer stem cell markers in diffuse glioma and association with p53 expression and IDH status

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence suggests that the tumor stem cells that are responsible for the pathogenesis of gliomas have similar properties to those of neural stem cells. We have studied two of the most consistently expressed stem cell markers in gliomas, i.e., CD133 and Nestin, and compared them with respect to p53 expression and IDH status.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the level of expression of Nestin and CD133, and identify a correlation among various grades of diffuse glioma with IDH status and expression of p53.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional retrospective study with 102 subjects for the expression of cancer stem cell markers; CD133 and Nestin and the correlation of their expression with that of p53 and IDH1 status in adult diffuse glioma. The study was conducted in the Departments of Pathology and Neurosurgery. The expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections. The scoring of expression of CD133 and Nestin was adapted from Zhang et al. The scoring for p53 was adopted from Aruna et al. Results: The diffuse gliomas were graded based on WHO into grade II (30.3%), grade III (28.4%), and grade IV (41.3%). Among WHO grade IV, 59.4% were primary, and 40.4% were secondary glioblastomas. 73% of the diffuse gliomas were IDH mutant, and p53 showed an overall expression of 76.4%. The expression of CD133 and Nestin were compared with the increasing grades of diffuse gliomas, which, when plotted on ROC curves, had AUCs of 0.6806 and 0.6119, respectively. Their expression showed a positive correlation with the IDH status of the tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer stem cell markers CD133 and Nestin are expressed in diffuse glioma and have a higher expression with increasing WHO grade of malignancy. These cancer stem cell markers have shown significant association with the IDH-1 mutant status of diffuse gliomas. Hence, it can be inferred that diffuse gliomas with a higher expression of CD133 and Nestin have a poorer prognosis. Further, these cancer stem cell markers may be used as therapeutic targets in the future.

Human Neural Stem Cell Expansion in Natural Polymer Scaffolds Under Chemically Defined Condition

The maintenance and expansion of human neural stem cells (hNSCs) in 3D tissue scaffolds is a promising strategy in producing cost-effective hNSCs with quality and quantity applicable for clinical applications. A few biopolymers have been extensively used to fabricate 3D scaffolds, including hyaluronic acid, collagen, alginate, and chitosan, due to their bioactive nature and availability. However, these polymers are usually applied in combination with other biomolecules, leading to their responses difficult to ascribe to. Here, scaffolds made of chitosan, alginate, hyaluronic acid, or collagen, are explored for hNSC expansion under xeno-free and chemically defined conditions and compared for hNSC multipotency maintenance. This study shows that the scaffolds made of pure chitosan support the highest adhesion and growth of hNSCs, yielding the most viable cells with NSC marker protein expression. In contrast, the presence of alginate, hyaluronic acid, or collagen induces differentiation toward immature neurons and astrocytes even in the maintenance medium and absence of differentiation factors. The cells in pure chitosan scaffolds preserve the level of transmembrane protein profile similar to that of standard culture. These findings point to the potential of using pure chitosan scaffolds as a base scaffolding material for hNSC expansion in 3D.

Neural stem/progenitor cells from olfactory neuroepithelium collected by nasal brushing as a cell model reflecting molecular and cellular dysfunctions in schizophrenia

OBJECTIVES

Neural stem/progenitor cells derived from olfactory neuroepithelium (hereafter olfactory neural stem/progenitor cells, ONSPCs) are emerging as a potential tool in the exploration of psychiatric disorders. The present study intended to assess whether ONSPCs could help discern individuals with schizophrenia (SZ) from non-schizophrenic (NS) subjects by exploring specific cellular and molecular features.

METHODS

ONSPCs were collected from 19 in-patients diagnosed with SZ and 31 NS individuals and propagated in basal medium. Mitochondrial ATP production, expression of β-catenin and cell proliferation, which are described to be altered in SZ, were examined in freshly isolated or newly thawed ONSPCs after a few culture passages.

RESULTS

SZ-ONSPCs exhibited a lower mitochondrial ATP production and insensitivity to agents capable of positively or negatively affecting β-catenin expression with respect to NS-ONSPCs. As to proliferation, it declined in SZ-ONSPCs as the number of culture passages increased compared to a steady level of growth shown by NS-ONSPCs.

CONCLUSIONS

The ease and safety of sample collection as well as the differences observed between NS- and SZ-ONSPCs, may lay the groundwork for a new approach to obtain biological material from a large number of living individuals and gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying SZ pathophysiology.

A novel method for culturing enteric neurons generates neurospheres containing functional myenteric neuronal subtypes

BACKGROUND

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is comprised of neurons, glia, and neural progenitor cells that regulate essential gastrointestinal functions. Advances in high-efficiency enteric neuron culture would facilitate discoveries surrounding ENS regulatory processes, pathophysiology, and therapeutics.

NEW METHOD

Development of a simple, robust, one-step method to culture murine enteric neurospheres in a 3D matrix that supports neural growth and differentiation.

RESULTS

Myenteric plexus cells isolated from the entire length of adult murine small intestine formed ≥3000 neurospheres within 7 days. Matrigel-embedded neurospheres exhibited abundant neural stem and progenitor cells expressing Sox2, Sox10 and Msi1 by day 4. By day 5, neural progenitor cell marker Nestin appeared in the periphery of neurospheres prior to differentiation. Neurospheres produced extensive neurons and neurites, confirmed by Tubulin beta III, PGP9.5, HuD/C, and NeuN immunofluorescence, including neural subtypes Calretinin, ChAT, and nNOS following 8 days of differentiation. Individual neurons within and external to neurospheres generated depolarization induced action potentials which were inhibited in the presence of sodium channel blocker, Tetrodotoxin. Differentiated neurospheres also contained a limited number of glia and endothelial cells.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS

This novel one-step neurosphere growth and differentiation culture system, in 3D format (in the presence of GDNF, EGF, and FGF2), allows for ∼2-fold increase in neurosphere count in the derivation of enteric neurons with measurable action potentials.

CONCLUSION

Our method describes a novel, robust 3D culture of electrophysiologically active enteric neurons from adult myenteric neural stem and progenitor cells.

Distribution, contribution and regulation of nestin+ cells

BACKGROUND

Nestin is an intermediate filament first reported in neuroepithelial stem cells. Nestin expression could be found in a variety of tissues throughout all systems of the body, especially during tissue development and tissue regeneration processes.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aimed to summarize and discuss current studies on the distribution, contribution and regulation of nestin+ cells in different systems of the body, to discuss the feasibility ofusing nestin as a marker of multilineage stem/progenitor cells, and better understand the potential roles of nestin+ cells in tissue development, regeneration and pathological processes.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

This review highlights the potential of nestin as a marker of multilineage stem/progenitor cells, and as a key factor in tissue development and tissue regeneration. The article discussed the current findings, limitations, and potential clinical implications or applications of nestin+ cells. Additionally, it included the relationship of nestin+ cells to other cell populations. We propose potential future research directions to encourage further investigation in the field.

Nestin expression in intact and hypertrophic myocardium of spontaneously hypertensive rats during aging

Nestin is a unique intermediate filament expressed for a short period in the developing heart. It was also documented in several cell types of the adult myocardium under pathological conditions such as myocardial infarction or fibrosis. However, circumstances of nestin re-occurrence in the diseased or aging heart have not been elucidated yet. In this work we immunohistochemically detected nestin to determine its expression and distribution pattern in the left ventricular myocardium of normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and in the hypertrophic ones of spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats, both at the age of 1 and 1.5 year. No nestin+ cells were identified in the intact myocardium of 1-year-old WKY rats, whereas in the aged 1.5-year-old WKY rats nestin+ endothelial cells in some blood vessels were discovered. In the hypertrophic myocardium of all SHR rats, nestin was rarely detected in desmin+ vimentin- cardiomyocytes and in some vimentin+ interstitial cells often accumulated in clusters, varying in intensity of desmin immunoreactivity. Moreover, nestin was infrequently expressed in the endothelial cells of some myocardial blood vessels in 1-year-old SHR rats, but not in 1.5-year-old ones. Quantitative image analysis of nestin expression in the myocardium confirmed significant increase in 1.5-year-old WKY rats and in SHR rats of both ages compared to the intact 1-year-old WKY rats. This study firstly documents nestin re-expression indicating cytoskeletal remodelling in different cell types of the aging intact and chronically pressure over-loaded hypertrophied myocardium. Our findings confirm nestin involvement in complex changes during myocardial hypertrophy and progressive aging.

Cerebral furin deficiency causes hydrocephalus in mice

Furin is a pro-protein convertase that moves between the trans-Golgi network and cell surface in the secretory pathway. We have previously reported that cerebral overexpression of furin promotes cognitive functions in mice. Here, by generating the brain-specific furin conditional knockout (cKO) mice, we investigated the role of furin in brain development. We found that furin deficiency caused early death and growth retardation. Magnetic resonance imaging showed severe hydrocephalus. In the brain of furin cKO mice, impaired ciliogenesis and the derangement of microtubule structures appeared along with the down-regulated expression of RAB28, a ciliary vesicle protein. In line with the widespread neuronal loss, ependymal cell layers were damaged. Further proteomics analysis revealed that cell adhesion molecules including astrocyte-enriched ITGB8 and BCAR1 were altered in furin cKO mice; and astrocyte overgrowth was accompanied by the reduced expression of SOX9, indicating a disrupted differentiation into ependymal cells. Together, whereas alteration of RAB28 expression correlated with the role of vesicle trafficking in ciliogenesis, dysfunctional astrocytes might be involved in ependymal damage contributing to hydrocephalus in furin cKO mice. The structural and molecular alterations provided a clue for further studying the potential mechanisms of furin.

SERS-based long-term mitochondrial pH monitoring during differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells to neural progenitor cells

As one of the important organelles in the process of cell differentiation, mitochondria regulate the whole process of differentiation by participating in energy supply and information transmission. Mitochondrial pH value is a key indicator of mitochondrial function. Therefore, real-time monitoring of mitochondrial pH value during cell differentiation is of great significance for understanding cell biochemical processes and exploring differentiation mechanisms. In this study, Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology was used to achieve the real-time monitoring of mitochondrial pH during induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) differentiation into neural progenitor cells (NPCs). The results showed that the variation trend of mitochondrial pH in normal and abnormal differentiated batches was different. The mitochondrial pH value of normal differentiated cells continued to decline from iPSCs to embryoid bodies (EB) day 4, and continued to rise from EB day 4 to the NPCs stage, and the mitochondrial microenvironment of iPSCs to NPCs differentiation became acidic. In contrast, the mitochondrial pH value of abnormally differentiated cells declined continuously during differentiation. This study improves the information on acid-base balance during cell differentiation and may provide a basis for further understanding of the changes and regulatory mechanisms of mitochondrial metabolism during cell differentiation. This also helps to improve more accurate and useful differentiation protocols based on the microenvironment within the mitochondria, improving the efficiency of cell differentiation.

Microglia-derived extracellular vesicles trigger age-related neurodegeneration upon DNA damage

DNA damage and neurodegenerative disorders are intimately linked but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that persistent DNA lesions in tissue-resident macrophages carrying an XPF-ERCC1 DNA repair defect trigger neuroinflammation and neuronal cell death in mice. We find that microglia accumulate dsDNAs and chromatin fragments in the cytosol, which are sensed thereby stimulating a viral-like immune response in Er1Cx/- and naturally aged murine brain. Cytosolic DNAs are packaged into extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are released from microglia and discharge their dsDNA cargo into IFN-responsive neurons triggering cell death. To remove cytosolic dsDNAs and prevent inflammation, we developed targeting EVs to deliver recombinant DNase I to Er1Cx/- brain microglia in vivo. We show that EV-mediated elimination of cytosolic dsDNAs is sufficient to prevent neuroinflammation, reduce neuronal apoptosis, and delay the onset of neurodegenerative symptoms in Er1Cx/- mice. Together, our findings unveil a causal mechanism leading to neuroinflammation and provide a rationalized therapeutic strategy against age-related neurodegeneration.

ADNP dysregulates methylation and mitochondrial gene expression in the cerebellum of a Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome autopsy case

BACKGROUND

Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which patients present with autism, intellectual disability, and frequent extra-neurological features such as feeding and gastrointestinal problems, visual impairments, and cardiac abnormalities. All patients exhibit heterozygous de novo nonsense or frameshift stop mutations in the Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP) gene, accounting for a prevalence of 0.2% of all autism cases worldwide. ADNP fulfills an essential chromatin remodeling function during brain development. In this study, we investigated the cerebellum of a died 6-year-old male patient with the c.1676dupA/p.His559Glnfs*3 ADNP mutation.

RESULTS

The clinical presentation of the patient was representative of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. During his lifespan, he underwent two liver transplantations after which the child died because of multiple organ failure. An autopsy was performed, and various tissue samples were taken for further analysis. We performed a molecular characterization of the cerebellum, a brain region involved in motor coordination, known for its highest ADNP expression and compared it to an age-matched control subject. Importantly, epigenome-wide analysis of the ADNP cerebellum identified CpG methylation differences and expression of multiple pathways causing neurodevelopmental delay. Interestingly, transcription factor motif enrichment analysis of differentially methylated genes showed that the ADNP binding motif was the most significantly enriched. RNA sequencing of the autopsy brain further identified downregulation of the WNT signaling pathway and autophagy defects as possible causes of neurodevelopmental delay. Ultimately, label-free quantification mass spectrometry identified differentially expressed proteins involved in mitochondrial stress and sirtuin signaling pathways amongst others. Protein-protein interaction analysis further revealed a network including chromatin remodelers (ADNP, SMARCC2, HDAC2 and YY1), autophagy-related proteins (LAMP1, BECN1 and LC3) as well as a key histone deacetylating enzyme SIRT1, involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism. The protein interaction of ADNP with SIRT1 was further biochemically validated through the microtubule-end binding proteins EB1/EB3 by direct co-immunoprecipitation in mouse cerebellum, suggesting important mito-epigenetic crosstalk between chromatin remodeling and mitochondrial energy metabolism linked to autophagy stress responses. This is further supported by mitochondrial activity assays and stainings in patient-derived fibroblasts which suggest mitochondrial dysfunctions in the ADNP deficient human brain.

CONCLUSION

This study forms the baseline clinical and molecular characterization of an ADNP autopsy cerebellum, providing novel insights in the disease mechanisms of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. By combining multi-omic and biochemical approaches, we identified a novel SIRT1-EB1/EB3-ADNP protein complex which may contribute to autophagic flux alterations and impaired mitochondrial metabolism in the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome and holds promise as a new therapeutic target.

Reversal of Postnatal Brain Astrocytes and Ependymal Cells towards a Progenitor Phenotype in Culture

Astrocytes and ependymal cells have been reported to be able to switch from a mature cell identity towards that of a neural stem/progenitor cell. Astrocytes are widely scattered in the brain where they exert multiple functions and are routinely targeted for in vitro and in vivo reprogramming. Ependymal cells serve more specialized functions, lining the ventricles and the central canal, and are multiciliated, epithelial-like cells that, in the spinal cord, act as bi-potent progenitors in response to injury. Here, we isolate or generate ependymal cells and post-mitotic astrocytes, respectively, from the lateral ventricles of the mouse brain and we investigate their capacity to reverse towards a progenitor-like identity in culture. Inhibition of the GSK3 and TGFβ pathways facilitates the switch of mature astrocytes to Sox2-expressing, mitotic cells that generate oligodendrocytes. Although this medium allows for the expansion of quiescent NSCs, isolated from live rats by "milking of the brain", it does not fully reverse astrocytes towards the bona fide NSC identity; this is a failure correlated with a concomitant lack of neurogenic activity. Ependymal cells could be induced to enter mitosis either via exposure to neuraminidase-dependent stress or by culturing them in the presence of FGF2 and EGF. Overall, our data confirm that astrocytes and ependymal cells retain a high capacity to reverse to a progenitor identity and set up a simple and highly controlled platform for the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms that regulate this reversal.

Human olfactory neural progenitor cells reveal differences in IL-6, IL-8, thrombospondin-1, and MCP-1 in major depression disorder and borderline personality disorder

Background

Discovering biological markers is essential for understanding and treating mental disorders. Despite the limitations of current non-invasive methods, neural progenitor cells from the olfactory epithelium (hNPCs-OE) have been emphasized as potential biomarker sources. This study measured soluble factors in these cells in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and healthy controls (HC).

Methods

We assessed thirty-five participants divided into MDD (n=14), BPD (n=14), and HC (n=7). MDD was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. BPD was evaluated using the DSM-5 criteria and the Structured Clinical Interview for Personality Disorders. We isolated hNPCs-OE, collected intracellular proteins and conditioned medium, and quantified markers and soluble factors, including Interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and others. Analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test and linear regression.

Results

We found that hNPCs-OE of MDD and BPD decreased Sox2 and laminin receptor-67 kDa levels. MASH-1 decreased in BPD, while tubulin beta-III decreased in MDD compared to controls and BPD. Also, we found significant differences in IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and thrombospondin-1 levels between controls and MDD, or BPD, but not between MDD and BPD.

Conclusions

Altered protein markers are evident in the nhNPCs-OE in MDD and BPD patients. These cells also secrete higher concentrations of inflammatory cytokines than HC cells. The results suggest the potential utility of hNPCs-OE as an in vitro model for researching biological protein markers in psychiatric disorders. However, more extensive validation studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and specificity in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Evaluation of specific RBE in different cells of hippocampus under high-dose proton irradiation in rats

The study aimed to determine the specific relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of various cells in the hippocampus following proton irradiation. Sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to 5 groups receiving 20 or 30 Gy of proton or photon irradiation. Pathomorphological neuronal damage in the hippocampus was assessed using Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The expression level of NeuN, Nestin, Caspase-3, Olig2, CD68 and CD45 were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The RBE range established by comparing the effects of proton and photon irradiation at equivalent biological outcomes. Proton20Gy induced more severe damage to neurons than photon20Gy, but showed no difference compared to photon30Gy. The RBE of neuron was determined to be 1.65. Similarly, both proton20Gy and proton30Gy resulted in more inhibition of oligodendrocytes and activation of microglia in the hippocampal regions than photon20Gy and photon30Gy. However, the expression of Olig2 was higher and CD68 was lower in the proton20Gy group than in the photon30Gy group. The RBE of oligodendrocyte and microglia was estimated to be between 1.1 to 1.65. For neural stem cells (NSCs) and immune cells, there were no significant difference in the expression of Nestin and CD45 between proton and photon irradiation (both 20 and 30 Gy). Therefore, the RBE for NSCs and immune cell was determined to be 1.1. These findings highlight the varying RBE values of different cells in the hippocampus in vivo. Moreover, the actual RBE of the hippocampus may be higher than 1.1, suggesting that using as RBE value of 1.1 in clinical practice may underestimate the toxicities induced by proton radiation.

Pulsating Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields Influence Differentiation of Mouse Neural Stem Cells towards Astrocyte-like Phenotypes: In Vitro Pilot Study

Even though electromagnetic fields have been reported to assist endogenous neurogenesis, little is known about the exact mechanisms of their action. In this pilot study, we investigated the effects of pulsating extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields on neural stem cell differentiation towards specific phenotypes, such as neurons and astrocytes. Neural stem cells isolated from the telencephalic wall of B6(Cg)-Tyrc-2J/J mouse embryos (E14.5) were randomly divided into three experimental groups and three controls. Electromagnetic field application setup included a solenoid placed within an incubator. Each of the experimental groups was exposed to 50Hz ELF-EMFs of varied strengths for 1 h. The expression of each marker (NES, GFAP, β-3 tubulin) was then assessed by immunocytochemistry. The application of high-strength ELF-EMF significantly increased and low-strength ELF-EMF decreased the expression of GFAP. A similar pattern was observed for β-3 tubulin, with high-strength ELF-EMFs significantly increasing the immunoreactivity of β-3 tubulin and medium- and low-strength ELF-EMFs decreasing it. Changes in NES expression were observed for medium-strength ELF-EMFs, with a demonstrated significant upregulation. This suggests that, even though ELF-EMFs appear to inhibit or promote the differentiation of neural stem cells into neurons or astrocytes, this effect highly depends on the strength and frequency of the fields as well as the duration of their application. While numerous studies have demonstrated the capacity of EMFs to guide the differentiation of NSCs into neuron-like cells or β-3 tubulin+ neurons, this is the first study to suggest that ELF-EMFs may also steer NSC differentiation towards astrocyte-like phenotypes.

MSX1+PDGFRAlow limb mesenchyme-like cells as an efficient stem cell source for human cartilage regeneration

Degenerative bone disorders have a significant impact on global health, and regeneration of articular cartilage remains a challenge. Existing cell therapies using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have shown limited efficacy, highlighting the necessity for alternative stem cell sources. Here, we have identified and characterized MSX1+ mesenchymal progenitor cells in the developing limb bud with remarkable osteochondral-regenerative and microenvironment-adaptive capabilities. Single-cell sequencing further revealed the presence of two major cell compositions within the MSX1+ cells, where a distinct PDGFRAlow subset retained the strongest osteochondral competency and could efficiently regenerate articular cartilage in vivo. Furthermore, a strategy was developed to generate MSX1+PDGFRAlow limb mesenchyme-like (LML) cells from human pluripotent stem cells that closely resembled their mouse counterparts, which were bipotential in vitro and could directly regenerate damaged cartilage in a mouse injury model. Together, our results indicated that MSX1+PDGFRAlow LML cells might be a prominent stem cell source for human cartilage regeneration.

Nestin-expressing cells are mitotically active in the mammalian inner ear

Nestin expression is associated with pluripotency. Growing evidence suggests nestin is involved in hair cell development. The objective of this study was to investigate the morphology and role of nestin-expressing cells residing in the early postnatal murine inner ear. A lineage-tracing nestin reporter mouse line was used to further characterize these cells. Their cochleae and vestibular organs were immunostained and whole-mounted for cell counting. We found Nestin-expressing cells present in low numbers throughout the inner ear. Three morphotypes were observed: bipolar, unipolar, and globular. Mitotic activity was noted in nestin-expressing cells in the cochlea, utricle, saccule, and crista. Nestin-expressing cell characteristics were then observed after hair cell ablation in two mouse models. First, a reporter model demonstrated nestin expression in a significantly higher proportion of hair cells after hair cell ablation than in control cochleae. However, in a lineage tracing nestin reporter mouse, none of the new hair cells which repopulated the organ of Corti after hair cell ablation expressed nestin, nor did the nestin-expressing cells change in morphotype. In conclusion, Nestin-expressing cells were identified in the cochlea and vestibular organs. After hair cell ablation, nestin-expressing cells did not react to the insult. However, a small number of nestin-expressing cells in all inner ear tissues exhibited mitotic activity, supporting progenitor cell potential, though perhaps not involved in hair cell regeneration.

Distinctive mesenchymal-like neurofibroma stem cells shape NF1 clinical phenotypes controlled by BDNF microenvironment

BACKGROUND

Neurofibroma type I (NF1) often presents with multiple clinical phenotypes due to mutations of NF1 gene. The aim of this study was to determine the phenotypic and therapeutic relevance of tumor microenvironment in NF1 patients.

METHODS

Tumor stem cells (TSCs) from NF1 were isolated and cultured using fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and colony formation experiments. Then, flow cytometry was used to detect the surface markers, osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation were performed as well. Its tumorigenesis ability was confirmed by subcutaneous tumorigenesis in nude mice. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on neurofibroma tissues from the head and trunk with different phenotypes. The expression of BDNF in neurofibroma tissues was detected by Elisa and immunohistochemical staining. Western Blotting was used to detect the expression of p38 MAPK pathway in TSCs. The effect of BDNF neutralizing antibody on the tumorigenesis of TSCs was observed.

RESULTS

Herein, we advocate that NF1 contain a new subgroup of mesenchymal-like neurofibroma stem cells (MNSCs). Such colony-forming MNSCs preserved self-renewal, multiple differentiation and tumorigenic capabilities. More interestingly, the MNSCs isolated from neurofibroma tissues of the same patient with different phenotypes presented site-specific capabilities. Moreover, different levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in neurofibroma tissues can impact the MNSCs by activating the TrkB/p38 MAPK pathway. Systemic administration of BDNF neutralizing antibodies inhibited MNSCs' characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that BDNF can modulate MNSCs and thereby controlling different tumor phenotypes between the head and trunk regions. Application of BDNF neutralizing antibodies may inhibit p38 MAPK pathway, therefore providing a promising strategy for managing NF1.

Generation of a stably transfected mouse embryonic stem cell line for inducible differentiation to excitatory neurons

In vitro differentiation of stem cells into various cell lineages is valuable in developmental studies and an important source of cells for modelling physiology and pathology, particularly for complex tissues such as the brain. Conventional protocols for in vitro neuronal differentiation often suffer from complicated procedures, high variability and low reproducibility. Over the last decade, the identification of cell fate-determining transcription factors has provided new tools for cellular studies in neuroscience and enabled rapid differentiation driven by ectopic transcription factor expression. As a proneural transcription factor, Neurogenin 2 (Ngn2) expression alone is sufficient to trigger rapid and robust neurogenesis from pluripotent cells. Here, we established a stable cell line, by piggyBac (PB) transposition, that conditionally expresses Ngn2 for generation of excitatory neurons from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) using an all-in-one PB construct. Our results indicate that Ngn2-induced excitatory neurons have mature and functional characteristics consistent with previous studies using conventional differentiation methods. This approach provides an all-in-one PB construct for rapid and high copy number gene delivery of dox-inducible transcription factors to induce differentiation. This approach is a valuable in vitro cell model for disease modeling, drug screening and cell therapy.

The generation of glioma organoids and the comparison of two culture methods

BACKGROUND

The intra- and inter-tumoral heterogeneity of gliomas and the complex tumor microenvironment make accurate treatment of gliomas challenging. At present, research on gliomas mainly relies on cell lines, stem cell tumor spheres, and xenotransplantation models. The similarity between traditional tumor models and patients with glioma is very low.

AIMS

In this study, we aimed to address the limitations of traditional tumor models by generating patient-derived glioma organoids using two methods that summarized the cell diversity, histological features, gene expression, and mutant profiles of their respective parent tumors and assess the feasibility of organoids for personalized treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We compared the organoids generated using two methods through growth analysis, immunohistological analysis, genetic testing, and the establishment of xenograft models.

RESULTS

Both types of organoids exhibited rapid infiltration when transplanted into the brains of adult immunodeficient mice. However, organoids formed using the microtumor method demonstrated more similar cellular characteristics and tissue structures to the parent tumors. Furthermore, the microtumor method allowed for faster culture times and more convenient operational procedures compared to the Matrigel method.

DISCUSSION

Patient-derived glioma organoids, especially those generated through the microtumor method, present a promising avenue for personalized treatment strategies. Their capacity to faithfully mimic the cellular and molecular characteristics of gliomas provides a valuable platform for elucidating tumor biology and evaluating therapeutic modalities.

CONCLUSION

The success rates of the Matrigel and microtumor methods were 45.5% and 60.5%, respectively. The microtumor method had a higher success rate, shorter establishment time, more convenient passage and cryopreservation methods, better simulation of the cellular and histological characteristics of the parent tumor, and a high genetic guarantee.

NFE2L1/Nrf1 serves as a potential therapeutical target for neurodegenerative diseases

The failure of the proper protein turnover in the nervous system is mainly linked to a variety of neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, a better understanding of key protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system is critical for effective prevention and treatment of those disorders. The proteasome expression is tightly regulated by a CNC (cap'n'collar) family of transcription factors, amongst which the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-like bZIP factor 1 (NFE2L1, also known as Nrf1, with its long isoform TCF11 and short isoform LCR-F1) has been identified as an indispensable regulator of the transcriptional expression of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. However, much less is known about how the pivotal role of NFE2L1/Nrf1, as compared to its homologous NFE2L2 (also called Nrf2), is translated to its physiological and pathophysiological functions in the nervous system insomuch as to yield its proper cytoprotective effects against neurodegenerative diseases. The potential of NFE2L1 to fulfill its unique neuronal function to serve as a novel therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases is explored by evaluating the hitherto established preclinical and clinical studies of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In this review, we have also showcased a group of currently available activators of NFE2L1, along with an additional putative requirement of this CNC-bZIP factor for healthy longevity based on the experimental evidence obtained from its orthologous SKN1-A in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Developmental Anomalies in Human Teeth: Odontoblastic Differentiation in Hamartomatous Calcifying Hyperplastic Dental Follicles Presenting with DSP, Nestin, and HES1

Hyperplastic dental follicles (HDFs) represent odontogenic hamartomatous lesions originating from the pericoronal tissues and are often associated with impacted or embedded teeth. These lesions may occasionally feature unique calcifying bodies, known as calcifying whorled nodules (CWNs), characterized by stromal cells arranged in a whorled or spiral fashion. CWNs are typically observed in multiple calcifying hyperplastic dental follicles or regional odontodysplasia. In our study, we examined 40 cases of HDFs, including nine instances with characteristics of CWNs, referred to as calcifying hyperplastic dental follicles (CHDFs), which are infrequently accompanied by odontodysplasia. The median ages of the HDFs and CHDFs were 16 (ranging from 3 to 66) and 15 (ranging from 11 to 50) years, respectively. The lower third molars were the most frequently affected by HDSFs and CHDFs, followed by the upper canines. A histological examination was conducted on all 40 cases, with an immunohistochemical analysis performed on 21 of them. Among the cases with CWN, nine affected a single embedded tooth, with one exception. CWNs exhibited diverse calcifications featuring sparse or entirely deposited psammoma bodies, and some displayed dentinoid formation. Immunohistochemically, the stromal cells of HDFs were frequently positive for CD56 and nestin. By contrast, CWNs were negative for CD56 but positive for nestin as well as hairy and enhancer split 1 (HES1), with a few dentin sialoprotein (DSP)-positive calcified bodies. Our results revealed that hamartomatous CHDFs can impact multiple and single-embedded teeth. CWNs composed of nestin and HES1-positive ectomesenchymal cells demonstrated the potential to differentiate into odontoblasts and contribute to dentin matrix formation under the influence of HES1. This study is the first report documenting odontoblastic differentiation in HDFs. The rare occurrence of HDFs and CHDFs contributes to limited comprehension. To prevent misdiagnosis, a better understanding of these conditions is necessary.

Development of a Smart Wireless Multisensor Platform for an Optogenetic Brain Implant

Implantable cell replacement therapies promise to completely restore the function of neural structures, possibly changing how we currently perceive the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. One of the major clinical hurdles for the routine implementation of stem cell therapies is poor cell retention and survival, demanding the need to better understand these mechanisms while providing precise and scalable approaches to monitor these cell-based therapies in both pre-clinical and clinical scenarios. This poses significant multidisciplinary challenges regarding planning, defining the methodology and requirements, prototyping and different stages of testing. Aiming toward an optogenetic neural stem cell implant controlled by a smart wireless electronic frontend, we show how an iterative development methodology coupled with a modular design philosophy can mitigate some of these challenges. In this study, we present a miniaturized, wireless-controlled, modular multisensor platform with fully interfaced electronics featuring three different modules: an impedance analyzer, a potentiostat and an optical stimulator. We show the application of the platform for electrical impedance spectroscopy-based cell monitoring, optical stimulation to induce dopamine release from optogenetically modified neurons and a potentiostat for cyclic voltammetry and amperometric detection of dopamine release. The multisensor platform is designed to be used as an opto-electric headstage for future in vivo animal experiments.

Nestin may be a candidate marker for differential diagnosis between small duct type and large duct type intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is subclassified into small and large duct types. These two subtypes show distinct differences in various clinicopathological features and possible cell origin and pathways of carcinogenesis, however, a differential diagnosis may be sometimes difficult. Given the type IV intermediate filament, Nestin, may be a candidate diagnostic marker for combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) and small duct type iCCAs, the significance of nestin as a differential diagnostic marker between small and large duct types of iCCAs was addressed in the present study.

METHODS

Nestin expression was immunohistochemically assessed in the sections from 36 patients with small duct-type iCCA, 30 with large duct-type iCCA, and 27 with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Nestin expression and its relationship with clinicopathological features and genetic alterations were investigated in small duct type iCCAs.

RESULTS

Nestin expression was detected in 17 small duct type iCCAs (47.2%), one large duct type iCCA (3.8%) and zero extrahepatic CCA. Nestin expression was significantly more frequent in the patients with small duct type iCCAs than in those with large duct type iCCA and extrahepatic CCA (p < 0.01). In 10 liver biopsies, all samples with nestin expression were small duct type iCCAs. Nestin-positive small duct type iCCAs were characterized by a higher histological grade, compared to Nestin-negative small duct type iCCAs (p < 0.01). Nestin-positive small duct type iCCAs tended to have 2 or more genetic alterations, but there was no statistic difference (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Different nestin expression may reflect differences between small duct type iCCA and large duct type/extrahepatic CCA and may be a useful diagnostic marker for small duct type iCCAs.

Ecological insights into hematopoiesis regulation: unraveling the influence of gut microbiota

The gut microbiota constitutes a vast ecological system within the human body, forming a mutually interdependent entity with the host. In recent years, advancements in molecular biology technologies have provided a clearer understanding of the role of the gut microbiota. They not only influence the local immune status and metabolic functions of the host's intestinal tract but also impact the functional transformation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) through the gut-blood axis. In this review, we will discuss the role of the gut microbiota in influencing hematopoiesis. We analyze the interactions between HSCs and other cellular components, with a particular emphasis on the direct functional regulation of HSCs by the gut microbiota and their indirect influence through cellular components in the bone marrow microenvironment. Additionally, we propose potential control targets for signaling pathways triggered by the gut microbiota to regulate hematopoietic function, filling crucial knowledge gaps in the development of this research field.

Potential of Nano-Engineered Stem Cells in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and degrading autoimmune disorder mainly targeting the central nervous system, leading to progressive neurodegeneration, demyelination, and axonal damage. Current treatment options for MS are limited in efficacy, generally linked to adverse side effects, and do not offer a cure. Stem cell therapies have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for MS, potentially promoting remyelination, exerting immunomodulatory effects and protecting against neurodegeneration. Therefore, this review article focussed on the potential of nano-engineering in stem cells as a therapeutic approach for MS, focusing on the synergistic effects of combining stem cell biology with nanotechnology to stimulate the proliferation of oligodendrocytes (OLs) from neural stem cells and OL precursor cells, by manipulating neural signalling pathways-PDGF, BMP, Wnt, Notch and their essential genes such as Sox, bHLH, Nkx. Here we discuss the pathophysiology of MS, the use of various types of stem cells in MS treatment and their mechanisms of action. In the context of nanotechnology, we present an overview of its applications in the medical and research field and discuss different methods and materials used to nano-engineer stem cells, including surface modification, biomaterials and scaffolds, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. We further elaborate on nano-engineered stem cell techniques, such as nano script, nano-exosome hybrid, nano-topography and their potentials in MS. The article also highlights enhanced homing, engraftment, and survival of nano-engineered stem cells, targeted and controlled release of therapeutic agents, and immunomodulatory and tissue repair effects with their challenges and limitations. This visual illustration depicts the process of utilizing nano-engineering in stem cells and exosomes for the purpose of delivering more accurate and improved treatments for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This approach targets specifically the creation of oligodendrocytes, the breakdown of which is the primary pathological factor in MS.

Shinbaro2 enhances axonal extension beyond the glial scar for functional recovery in rats with contusive spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event that often results in the inflammatory condition of glial scar tissue formation, impeding neural regeneration and recovery. Reducing the inflammatory response and inhibiting glial formation are promising strategies for improving SCI outcomes. Here, we introduce a new role for Shinbaro2 (Sh2), known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing effects, in ameliorating glial scars formed in the damaged spinal cord and promoting axon growth after SCI. Sh2 was applied at various concentrations to cultivate primary spinal cord neurons. Concentrations of 1 and 2 mg/mL effectively enhanced cell viability and axonal outgrowth in spinal cord neurons subjected to hydrogen peroxide or laceration injury. Sh2 helped reduce neuroinflammation by increasing anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages (arginase 1) and decreasing inflammatory cells, ultimately reducing lesion size. In scar formation, Sh2 inhibited the expression of β-catenin and nestin in reactive astrocytes in the injured spinal cord. Moreover, Sh2 suppressed the expression of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and SOX9, which are involved in scar formation. Furthermore, Sh2 promoted the sprouting of serotonergic axons and the growth of neurofibrillary tangles, enhancing motor function recovery in SCI. These findings highlight the potential of Sh2 as an SCI therapeutic intervention, offering hope for neural and functional restoration in individuals with this debilitating condition.

Upregulated expression of miR-4443 and miR-4488 in drug resistant melanomas promotes migratory and invasive phenotypes through downregulation of intermediate filament nestin

BACKGROUND

BRAF-mutant melanoma patients benefit from the combinatorial treatments with BRAF and MEK inhibitors. However, acquired drug resistance strongly limits the efficacy of these targeted therapies in time. Recently, many findings have underscored the involvement of microRNAs as main drivers of drug resistance. In this context, we previously identified a subset of oncomiRs strongly up-regulated in drug-resistant melanomas. In this work, we shed light on the molecular role of two as yet poorly characterized oncomiRs, miR-4443 and miR-4488.

METHODS

Invasion and migration have been determined by wound healing, transwell migration/invasion assays and Real Time Cell Analysis (RTCA) technology. miR-4488 and miR-4443 have been measured by qRT-PCR. Nestin levels have been tested by western blot, confocal immunofluorescence, immunohistochemical and flow cytometry analyses.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that the two oncomiRs are responsible for the enhanced migratory and invasive phenotypes, that are a hallmark of drug resistant melanoma cells. Moreover, miR-4443 and miR-4488 promote an aberrant cytoskeletal reorganization witnessed by the increased number of stress fibers and cellular protrusions-like cancer cell invadopodia. Mechanistically, we identified the intermediate filament nestin as a molecular target of both oncomiRs. Finally, we have shown that nestin levels are able to predict response to treatments in melanoma patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether these findings have profound translational implications in the attempt i) to develop miRNA-targeting therapies to mitigate the metastatic phenotypes of BRAF-mutant melanomas and ii) to identify novel biomarkers able to guide clinical decisions.

SDF-1 Bound Heparin Nanoparticles Recruit Progenitor Cells for Their Differentiation and Promotion of Angiogenesis after Stroke

Angiogenesis after stroke is correlated with enhanced tissue repair and functional outcomes. The existing body of research in biomaterials for stroke focuses on hydrogels for the delivery of stem cells, growth factors, or small molecules or drugs. Despite the ability of hydrogels to enhance all these delivery methods, no material has significantly regrown vasculature within the translatable timeline of days to weeks after stroke. Here, two novel biomaterial formulations of granular hydrogels are developed for tissue regeneration after stroke: highly porous microgels (i.e., Cryo microgels) and microgels bound with heparin-norbornene nanoparticles with covalently bound SDF-1α. The combination of these materials results in perfused vessels throughout the stroke core in only 10 days, in addition to increased neural progenitor cell recruitment, maintenance, and increased neuronal differentiation.

Immune Privileges as a Result of Mutual Regulation of Immune and Stem Systems

Immune privileges of cancer stem cells is a well-known and widely studied problem, as presence of such cells in tumors is associated with refractoriness, recurrence, and metastasis. Accumulating evidence also suggests presence of immune privileges in non-pathological stem cells in addition to their other defense mechanisms against damaging factors. This similarity between pathological and normal stem cells raises the question of why stem cells have such a potentially dangerous property. Regulation of vital processes of autoimmunity control and regeneration realized through interactions between immune cells, stem cells, and their microenvironment are reviewed in this work as causes of formation of the stem cell immune privilege. Deep mutual integration between regulations of stem and immune cells is noted. Considering diversity and complexity of mutual regulation of stem cells, their microenvironment, and immune system, I suggest the term "stem system".

Redox Homeostasis and Beyond: The Role of Wild-Type Isocitrate Dehydrogenases for the Pathogenesis of Glioblastoma

Significance: Glioblastoma is an aggressive and devastating brain tumor characterized by a dismal prognosis and resistance to therapeutic intervention. To support catabolic processes critical for unabated cellular growth and defend against harmful reactive oxygen species, glioblastoma tumors upregulate the expression of wild-type isocitrate dehydrogenases (IDHs). IDH enzymes catalyze the oxidative decarboxylation of isocitrate to α-ketoglutarate (α-KG), NAD(P)H, and CO2. On molecular levels, IDHs epigenetically control gene expression through effects on α-KG-dependent dioxygenases, maintain redox balance, and promote anaplerosis by providing cells with NADPH and precursor substrates for macromolecular synthesis. Recent Advances: While gain-of-function mutations in IDH1 and IDH2 represent one of the most comprehensively studied mechanisms of IDH pathogenic effects, recent studies identified wild-type IDHs as critical regulators of normal organ physiology and, when transcriptionally induced or down regulated, as contributing to glioblastoma progression. Critical Issues: Here, we will discuss molecular mechanisms of how wild-type IDHs control glioma pathogenesis, including the regulation of oxidative stress and de novo lipid biosynthesis, and provide an overview of current and future research directives that aim to fully characterize wild-type IDH-driven metabolic reprogramming and its contribution to the pathogenesis of glioblastoma. Future Directions: Future studies are required to further dissect mechanisms of metabolic and epigenomic reprogramming in tumors and the tumor microenvironment, and to develop pharmacological approaches to inhibit wild-type IDH function. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 923-941.

The mesodermal and myogenic specification of hESCs depend on ZEB1 and are inhibited by ZEB2

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) can differentiate into any cell lineage. Here, we report that ZEB1 and ZEB2 promote and inhibit mesodermal-to-myogenic specification of hESCs, respectively. Knockdown and/or overexpression experiments of ZEB1, ZEB2, or PAX7 in hESCs indicate that ZEB1 is required for hESC Nodal/Activin-mediated mesodermal specification and PAX7+ human myogenic progenitor (hMuP) generation, while ZEB2 inhibits these processes. ZEB1 downregulation induces neural markers, while ZEB2 downregulation induces mesodermal/myogenic markers. Mechanistically, ZEB1 binds to and transcriptionally activates the PAX7 promoter, while ZEB2 binds to and activates the promoter of the neural OTX2 marker. Transplanting ZEB1 or ZEB2 knocked down hMuPs into the muscles of a muscular dystrophy mouse model, showing that hMuP engraftment and generation of dystrophin-positive myofibers depend on ZEB1 and are inhibited by ZEB2. The mouse model results suggest that ZEB1 expression and/or downregulating ZEB2 in hESCs may also enhance hESC regenerative capacity for human muscular dystrophy therapy.

Trim9 regulates the directional differentiation of retinal Müller cells to retinal ganglion cells

OBJECTIVES

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, and effective therapies to reverse the visual system damage caused by glaucoma are still lacking. Recently, the stem cell therapy enable the repair and regeneration of the damaged retinal neurons, but challenges regarding the source of stem cells remain. This study aims to investigate a protocol that allows the dedifferentiation of Müller cells into retinal stem cells, following by directed differentiation into retinal ganglion cells with high efficiency, and to provide a new method of cellular acquisition for retinal stem cells.

METHODS

Epidermal cell growth factor and fibroblast growth factor 2 were used to induce the dedifferentiation of rat retinal Müller cells into retinal neural stem cells. Retinal stem cells derived from Müller cells were infected with a Trim9 overexpression lentiviral vector (PGC-FU-Trim9-GFP), and the efficiency of viral infection was assessed by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Retinoic acid and brain-derived neurotrophic factor treatments were used to induce the differentiation of the retinal stem cells into neurons and glial cells with or without the overexpression of Trim9. The expressions of each cellular marker (GLAST, GS, rhodopsin, PKC, HPC-1, Calbindin, Thy1.1, Brn-3b, Nestin, Pax6) were detected by immunofluorescence, PCR/real-time RT-PCR or Western blotting.

RESULTS

Rat retinal Müller cells expressed neural stem cells markers (Nestin and Pax6) with the treatment of epidermal cell growth factor and fibroblast growth factor 2. The Thy1.1 positive cell rate of retinal stem cells overexpressing Trim9 was significantly increased, indicating their directional differentiation into retinal ganglion cells after treatment with retinoic acid and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, rat retinal Müller cells are dedifferentiated into retinal stem cells successfully, and Trim9 promotes the directional differentiation from retinal stem cells to retinal ganglion cells effectively.

TP53-PTEN-NF1 depletion in human brain organoids produces a glioma phenotype in vitro

Glioblastoma (GBM) is fatal and the study of therapeutic resistance, disease progression, and drug discovery in GBM or glioma stem cells is often hindered by limited resources. This limitation slows down progress in both drug discovery and patient survival. Here we present a genetically engineered human cerebral organoid model with a cancer-like phenotype that could provide a basis for GBM-like models. Specifically, we engineered a doxycycline-inducible vector encoding shRNAs enabling depletion of the TP53, PTEN, and NF1 tumor suppressors in human cerebral organoids. Designated as inducible short hairpin-TP53-PTEN-NF1 (ish-TPN), doxycycline treatment resulted in human cancer-like cerebral organoids that effaced the entire organoid cytoarchitecture, while uninduced ish-TPN cerebral organoids recapitulated the normal cytoarchitecture of the brain. Transcriptomic analysis revealed a proneural GBM subtype. This proof-of-concept study offers a valuable resource for directly investigating the emergence and progression of gliomas within the context of specific genetic alterations in normal cerebral organoids.

Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Promote the Regeneration of Corneal Endothelium Through Ameliorating Senescence

Purpose

Human corneal endothelial cells (hCECs) have been considered unable to regenerate in vivo, resulting in corneal decompensation after significant loss of hCECs. adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ASC)-derived exosomes can regenerate tissues and organs. In this study, we investigated whether ASC-derived exosomes could protect and regenerate CECs.

Methods

We performed cell viability and cell-cycle analyses to evaluate the effect of ASC-derived exosomes on the regeneration capacity of cultured hCECs. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were used to induce biological stress in CECs. The effect of ASC-derived exosomes on CECs was investigated in vivo. ASC-derived exosomes were introduced into rat CECs using electroporation, and rat corneas were injured using cryoinjury. Next-generation sequencing analysis was performed to compare the differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) between ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes.

Results

ASC-derived exosomes induced CEC proliferation and suppressed TGF-β- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress and senescence. ASC-derived exosomes protect hCECs against TGF-β- or H2O2-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition and mitophagy. In an in vivo study, ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing of rat CECs and protected the corneal endothelium against cryoinjury-induced corneal endothelium damage. Next-generation sequencing analysis revealed differentially expressed miRNAs for ASC-derived and hCEC-derived exosomes. They are involved in lysine degradation, adherens junction, the TGF-β signaling pathway, the p53 signaling pathway, the Hippo signaling pathway, the forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling pathway, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and RNA degradation based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis.

Conclusions

ASC-derived exosomes promoted wound healing and regeneration of endothelial cells by inducing a shift in the cell cycle and suppressing senescence and autophagy.

Markers of dental pulp stem cells in in vivo developmental context

Teeth and their associated tissues contain several populations of mesenchymal stem cells, one of which is represented by dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). These cells have mainly been characterised in vitro and numerous positive and negati ve markers for these cells have been suggested. To investigate the presence and localization of these molecules during development, forming dental pulp was examined using the mouse first mandibular molar as a model. The stages corresponding to postnatal (P) days 0, 7, 14, and 21 were investigated. The expression was monitored using customised PCR Arrays. Additionally, in situ localization of the key trio of markers (Cd73, Cd90, Cd105 coded by genes Nt5e, Thy1, Eng) was performed at prenatal and postnatal stages using immunohistochemistry. The expression panel of 24 genes assigned as in vitro markers of DPSCs or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) revealed their developmental dynamics during formation of dental pulp mesenchyme. Among the positive markers, Vcam1, Fgf2, Nes were identified as increasing and Cd44, Cd59b, Mcam, Alcam as decreasing between perinatal vs. postnatal stages towards adulthood. Within the panel of negative DPSC markers, Cd14, Itgb2, Ptprc displayed increased and Cd24a decreased levels at later stages of pulp formation. Within the key trio of markers, Nt5e did not show any significant expression difference within the investigated period. Thy1 displayed a strong decrease between P0 and P7 while Eng increased between these stages. In situ localization of Cd73, Cd90 and Cd105 showed them overlap in differentiated odontoblasts and in the sub-odontoblastic layer that is speculated to host odontoblast progenitors. The highly prevalent expression of particularly Cd73 and Cd90 opens the question of potential multiple functions of these molecules. The results from this study add to the in vitro based knowledge by showing dynamics in the expression of DPSC/MSC markers during dental pulp formation in an in vivo context and thus with respect to the natural environment important for commitment of stem cells.