Microvesicles (MIVs) secreted from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) contain multiple microRNAs and promote the migration and invasion of endothelial cells

Adipose-derived miRNAs as potential biomarkers for predicting adulthood obesity and its complications: A systematic review and bioinformatic analysis

Adipose tissue is the first and primary target organ of obesity and the main source of circulating miRNAs in patients with obesity. This systematic review aimed to analyze and summarize the generation and mechanisms of adipose-derived miRNAs and their role as early predictors of various obesity-related complications. Literature searches in the PubMed and Web of Science databases using terms related to miRNAs, obesity, and adipose tissue. Pre-miRNAs from the Human MicroRNA Disease Database, known to regulate obesity-related metabolic disorders, were combined for intersection processing. Validated miRNA targets were sorted through literature review, and enrichment analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes via the KOBAS online tool, disease analysis, and miRNA transcription factor prediction using the TransmiR v. 2.0 database were also performed. Thirty miRNAs were identified using both obesity and adipose secretion as criteria. Seventy-nine functionally validated targets associated with 30 comorbidities of these miRNAs were identified, implicating pathways such as autophagy, p53 pathways, and inflammation. The miRNA precursors were analyzed to predict their transcription factors and explore their biosynthesis mechanisms. Our findings offer potential insights into the epigenetic changes related to adipose-driven obesity-related comorbidities.

Engineering pre-vascularized 3D tissue and rapid vascular integration with host blood vessels via co-cultured spheroids-laden hydrogel

Recent advances in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering have enabled the biofabrication of three-dimensional (3D) tissue analogues with the potential for use in transplants and disease modeling. However, the practical use of these biomimetic tissues has been hindered by the challenge posed by reconstructing anatomical-scale micro-vasculature tissues. In this study, we suggest that co-cultured spheroids within hydrogels hold promise for regenerating highly vascularized and innervated tissues, bothin vitroandin vivo. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) and human umbilical vein cells (HUVECs) were prepared as spheroids, which were encapsulated in gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels to fabricate a 3D pre-vascularized tissue. The vasculogenic responses, extracellular matrix production, and remodeling depending on parameters like co-culture ratio, hydrogel strength, and pre-vascularization time forin vivointegration with native vessels were then delicately characterized. The co-cultured spheroids with 3:1 ratio (hADSCs/HUVECs) within the hydrogel and with a pliable storage modulus showed the greatest vasculogenic potential, and ultimately formedin vitroarteriole-scale vasculature with a longitudinal lumen structure and a complex vascular network after long-term culturing. Importantly, the pre-vascularized tissue also showed anastomotic vascular integration with host blood vessels after transplantation, and successful vascularization that was positive for both CD31 and alpha-smooth muscle actin covering 18.6 ± 3.6μm2of the luminal area. The described co-cultured spheroids-laden hydrogel can therefore serve as effective platform for engineering 3D vascularized complex tissues.

Salivary Extracellular Vesicles: Biomarkers and Beyond in Human Diseases

Extracellular vesicles, as bioactive molecules, have been extensively studied. There are abundant studies in the literature on their biogenesis, secretion, structure, and content, and their roles in pathophysiological processes. Extracellular vesicles have been reviewed as biomarkers for use in diagnostic tools. Saliva contains many extracellular vesicles, and compared with other body fluids, it is easier to obtain in a non-invasive way, making its acquisition more easily accepted by patients. In recent years, there have been numerous new studies investigating the role of salivary extracellular vesicles as biomarkers. These studies have significant implications for future clinical diagnosis. Therefore, in this paper, we summarize and review the potential applications of salivary extracellular vesicles as biomarkers, and we also describe their other functions (e.g., hemostasis, innate immune defense) in both oral and non-oral diseases.

The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome (Extracellular Microvesicles and Exosomes) in Animals' Musculoskeletal and Neurologic-Related Disorders

The advances in regenerative medicine are very important for the development of medicine and the discovery of stem cells has shown a greater capacity to raise the level of therapeutic quality while their use becomes more accessible, especially in their mesenchymal form. In veterinary medicine, it is not different. The use of those cells, as well as recent advances related to the use of their extracellular vesicles, demonstrates a great opportunity to enhance therapeutic methods and ensure more life quality for patients, which can be in clinical or surgical treatments. Knowing the advances in these modalities and the growing clinical and surgery research and demands for innovations in orthopedic and neurology medicines, this paper aimed to review the literature about the methodologies of use and applications such as the pathways of action and the advances that were postulated for microvesicles and exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells in veterinary medicine, especially for musculoskeletal disorders and related injuries.

Adipose‑derived stem cell‑mediated alphastatin targeting delivery system inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth in glioma

Malignant glioma is a highly vascularized tumor. Therefore, inhibition of angiogenesis is an effective treatment strategy for it. Alphastatin is a 24‑amino acid peptide that has been demonstrated to inhibit glioma angiogenesis and tumor growth. Adipose‑derived stem cells (ADSCs) are considered an ideal targeted drug delivery system for glioma therapy due to their targeted tropism for cancer and the intrinsic attribute of autologous transplantation. The aim of the present study was to construct an ADSC‑mediated alphastatin targeted delivery system and investigate its effects on angiogenesis in glioma. The sequence encoding the human neurotrophin‑4 signal peptide and alphastatin fusion gene fragment was transferred into ADSCs using a lentiviral vector to construct the ADSC‑mediated alphastatin targeted delivery system (Al‑ADSCs). Flow cytometry was used to detect the stem cell surface markers of Al‑ADSCs. Western blot analysis and ELISA were used to detect the expression and secretion of alphastatin peptide in Al‑ADSCs. Cell migration assay was used to detect the tendency of Al‑ADSCs to target CD133+ glioma stem cells (GSCs). The effects of Al‑ADSCs on angiogenesis in vitro were detected by tube formation assay. A Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay was used to detect the effects of Al‑ADSCs on endothelial cell (EC) proliferation. Wound healing assay was used to examine the effects of Al‑ADSCs on EC migration. Intracranial xenograft models were constructed and in vivo fluorescence imaging was used to examine the effects of Al‑ADSCs on glioma growth. Fluorescence microscopy was used to detect the distribution of Al‑ADSCs in glioma tissue and CD133 immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the effects of Al‑ADSCs on GSCs in glioma tissue. The results revealed that ADSCs exhibited more marked tropism to GSCs than to other types of cells (P<0.01). Al‑ADSCs maintained the surface markers of ADSCs and there was no significant difference between the ADSCs and Al‑ADSCs regarding tropism to GSCs (P=0.639 for GSCs‑SHG44 cells; and P=0.386 for GSCs‑U87 cells). Al‑ADSCs were able to successfully secrete and express alphastatin peptide and inhibited EC‑mediated angiogenesis (P<0.01) and EC migration (P<0.01) and proliferation (P<0.01) in vitro. In vivo, Al‑ADSCs were detected in glioma tissue and were able to inhibit tumor growth. In addition, the Al‑ADSCs reduced the number of GSCs and microvascular density (P<0.01) in the tumors. Overall, the results of the present study indicated that the Al‑ADSCs were able to target glioma tissue and inhibit glioma angiogenesis and tumor growth. This anti‑angiogenic targeted therapy system may provide a new strategy for the treatment of glioma.

mir-98-5p regulates gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis by targeting PPP1R15B in hepatocytes

Several reports suggest that circulatory miRNAs are deregulated in diverse diseases and used as markers for disease diagnosis and prognosis. Here we show that miR-98-5p, that is down-regulated in the circulation during diabetes, regulates hepatic gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis by targeting PPP1R15B. miR-98-5p overexpression significantly decreased the transcript and protein levels of PPP1R15B in hepatic HepG2 cells and increased p-eIF2α expression and these were prevented in the presence of its inhibitor. Two major hepatic hallmarks during diabetes i.e. hepatic lipid accumulation and glucose output were explored towards physiological relevance. As compared to scramble, overexpression of miR-98-5p decreased the transcript levels of both gluconeogenic and lipogenic genes together with a significant reduction in hepatic glucose production and fat accumulation in HepG2 cells. Using PASTAA to detect common transcription factors regulating these altered genes, CREB emerged as the most significantly enriched transcription factor. While miR-98-5p overexpression did not change the transcript levels of CREB, there was a significant change in its protein levels. While similar effects on gluconeogenic and lipogenic gene expression were detected using the PPP1R15B siRNA, the opposite was observed in the presence of miR-98-5p inhibitor alone. All these suggest that by targeting PPP1R15B, miR-98-5p regulates hepatic steatosis and glucose output; deregulation of which are characteristic hepatic features during diabetes. Therapeutic intervention of the miR-98/PPP1R15B axis might offer a potential strategy to target aberrant hepatic metabolism during diabetes.

EV-miRNA-Mediated Intercellular Communication in the Breast Tumor Microenvironment

Cancer research has prioritized the study of the tumor microenvironment (TME) as a crucial area of investigation. Understanding the communication between tumor cells and the various cell types within the TME has become a focal point. Bidirectional communication processes between these cells support cellular transformation, as well as the survival, invasion, and metastatic dissemination of tumor cells. Extracellular vesicles are lipid bilayer structures secreted by cells that emerge as important mediators of this cell-to-cell communication. EVs transfer their molecular cargo, including proteins and nucleic acids, and particularly microRNAs, which play critical roles in intercellular communication. Tumor-derived EVs, for example, can promote angiogenesis and enhance endothelial permeability by delivering specific miRNAs. Moreover, adipocytes, a significant component of the breast stroma, exhibit high EV secretory activity, which can then modulate metabolic processes, promoting the growth, proliferation, and migration of tumor cells. Comprehensive studies investigating the involvement of EVs and their miRNA cargo in the TME, as well as their underlying mechanisms driving tumoral capacities, are necessary for a deeper understanding of these complex interactions. Such knowledge holds promise for the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment.

Niclosamide (NA) overcomes cisplatin resistance in human ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most lethal malignancies of the female reproductive system. OC patients are usually diagnosed at advanced stages due to the lack of early diagnosis. The standard treatment for OC includes a combination of debulking surgery and platinum-taxane chemotherapy, while several targeted therapies have recently been approved for maintenance treatment. The vast majority of OC patients relapse with chemoresistant tumors after an initial response. Thus, there is an unmet clinical need to develop new therapeutic agents to overcome the chemoresistance of OC. The anti-parasite agent niclosamide (NA) has been repurposed as an anti-cancer agent and exerts potent anti-cancer activities in human cancers including OC. Here, we investigated whether NA could be repurposed as a therapeutic agent to overcome cisplatin-resistant (CR) in human OC cells. To this end, we first established two CR lines SKOV3CR and OVCAR8CR that exhibit the essential biological characteristics of cisplatin resistance in human cancer. We showed that NA inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed cell migration, and induced cell apoptosis in both CR lines at a low micromole range. Mechanistically, NA inhibited multiple cancer-related pathways including AP1, ELK/SRF, HIF1, and TCF/LEF, in SKOV3CR and OVCAR8CR cells. NA was further shown to effectively inhibit xenograft tumor growth of SKOV3CR cells. Collectively, our findings strongly suggest that NA may be repurposed as an efficacious agent to combat cisplatin resistance in chemoresistant human OC, and further clinical trials are highly warranted.

Potential angiogenic, immunomodulatory, and antifibrotic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an intricate systemic autoimmune disease with pathological features such as vascular injury, immune dysregulation, and extensive fibrosis of the skin and multiple organs. Treatment options are limited; however, recently, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have been acknowledged in preclinical and clinical trials as being useful in treating autoimmune diseases and are likely superior to MSCs alone. Recent research has also shown that MSC-EVs can ameliorate SSc and the pathological changes in vasculopathy, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. This review summarizes the therapeutic effects of MSC-EVs on SSc and the mechanisms that have been discovered to provide a theoretical basis for future studies on the role of MSC-EVs in treating SSc.

Strategies to Improve AFT Volume Retention After Fat Grafting

BACKGROUND

Autologous fat grafting has gained increasing popularity used in plastic surgery as a strategy to improve functional and aesthetic outcome. However, variable augmentation results have concerned surgeons in that volume loss of grafted fat reported fluctuates unsteadily.

AIM

An optimal technique that clinically maximizes the long-term survival rate of transplantation is in urgent need to be identified.

METHOD

The PubMed/MEDLINE database was queried to search for animal and human studies published through March of 2022 with search terms related to adipose grafting encompassing liposuction, adipose graft viability, processing technique, adipose-derived stem cell, SVF and others.

RESULTS

45 in vivo studies met inclusion criteria. The principal of ideal processing technique is effective purification of fat and protection of tissue viability, such as gauze rolling and washing-filtration devices. Cell-assisted lipotransfer including SVF, SVF-gel and ADSCs significantly promotes graft retention via differentiation potential and paracrine manner. ADSCs induce polarization of macrophages to regulate inflammatory response, mediate extracellular matrix remodeling and promote endothelial cell migration and sprouting, and differentiate into adipocytes to replace necrotic cells, providing powerful evidence for the benefits and efficacy of cell-assisted lipotransfer.

CONCLUSION

Based on the current evidence, the best strategy can not be decided. Cell-assisted lipotransfer has great potential for use in regenerative medicine. But so far mechanically prepared SVF-gel is conducive to clinical promotion. PRP as endogenous growth factor sustained-release material shows great feasibility.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Modeling lung diseases using reversibly immortalized mouse pulmonary alveolar type 2 cells (imPAC2)

BACKGROUND

A healthy alveolar epithelium is critical to the gas exchange function of the lungs. As the major cell type of alveolar epithelium, alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells play a critical role in maintaining pulmonary homeostasis by serving as alveolar progenitors during lung injury, inflammation, and repair. Dysregulation of AT2 cells may lead to the development of acute and chronic lung diseases and cancer. The lack of clinically relevant AT2 cell models hampers our ability to understand pulmonary diseases. Here, we sought to establish reversibly immortalized mouse pulmonary alveolar type 2 cells (imPAC2) and investigate their potential in forming alveolar organoids to model pulmonary diseases.

METHODS

Primary mouse pulmonary alveolar cells (mPACs) were isolated and immortalized with a retroviral expression of SV40 Large T antigen (LTA). Cell proliferation and survival was assessed by crystal violet staining and WST-1 assays. Marker gene expression was assessed by qPCR, Western blotting, and/or immunostaining. Alveolar organoids were generated by using matrigel. Ad-TGF-β1 was used to transiently express TGF-β1. Stable silencing β-catenin or overexpression of mutant KRAS and TP53 was accomplished by using retroviral vectors. Subcutaneous cell implantations were carried out in athymic nude mice. The retrieved tissue masses were subjected to H & E histologic evaluation.

RESULTS

We immortalized primary mPACs with SV40 LTA to yield the imPACs that were non-tumorigenic and maintained long-term proliferative activity that was reversible by FLP-mediated removal of SV40 LTA. The EpCAM+ AT2-enriched subpopulation (i.e., imPAC2) was sorted out from the imPACs, and was shown to express AT2 markers and form alveolar organoids. Functionally, silencing β-catenin decreased the expression of AT2 markers in imPAC2 cells, while TGF-β1 induced fibrosis-like response by regulating the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers in the imPAC2 cells. Lastly, concurrent expression of oncogenic KRAS and mutant TP53 rendered the imPAC2 cells a tumor-like phenotype and activated lung cancer-associated pathways. Collectively, our results suggest that the imPAC2 cells may faithfully represent AT2 populations that can be further explored to model pulmonary diseases.

Macrophage-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: A Promising Tool for Personalized Cancer Therapy

The incidence of cancer is increasing dramatically, affecting all ages of the population and reaching an ever higher worldwide mortality rate. The lack of therapies' efficacy is due to several factors such as a delay in diagnosis, tumor regrowth after surgical resection and the occurrence of multidrug resistance (MDR). Tumor-associated immune cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) deeply affect the tumor's progression, leading to several physicochemical changes compared to physiological conditions. In this scenario, macrophages play a crucial role, participating both in tumor suppression or progression based on the polarization of onco-suppressive M1 or pro-oncogenic M2 phenotypes. Moreover, much evidence supports the pivotal role of macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) as mediators in TME, because of their ability to shuttle the cell-cell and organ-cell communications, by delivering nucleic acids and proteins. EVs are lipid-based nanosystems with a broad size range distribution, which reflect a similar composition of native parent cells, thus providing a natural selectivity towards target sites. In this review, we discuss the impact of macrophage-derived EVs in the cancer's fate as well as their potential implications for the development of personalized anticancer nanomedicine.

Reversibly immortalized keratinocytes (iKera) facilitate re-epithelization and skin wound healing: Potential applications in cell-based skin tissue engineering

Skin injury is repaired through a multi-phase wound healing process of tissue granulation and re-epithelialization. Any failure in the healing process may lead to chronic non-healing wounds or abnormal scar formation. Although significant progress has been made in developing novel scaffolds and/or cell-based therapeutic strategies to promote wound healing, effective management of large chronic skin wounds remains a clinical challenge. Keratinocytes are critical to re-epithelialization and wound healing. Here, we investigated whether exogenous keratinocytes, in combination with a citrate-based scaffold, enhanced skin wound healing. We first established reversibly immortalized mouse keratinocytes (iKera), and confirmed that the iKera cells expressed keratinocyte markers, and were responsive to UVB treatment, and were non-tumorigenic. In a proof-of-principle experiment, we demonstrated that iKera cells embedded in citrate-based scaffold PPCN provided more effective re-epithelialization and cutaneous wound healing than that of either PPCN or iKera cells alone, in a mouse skin wound model. Thus, these results demonstrate that iKera cells may serve as a valuable skin epithelial source when, combining with appropriate biocompatible scaffolds, to investigate cutaneous wound healing and skin regeneration.

Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Contribution to Angiogenic Processes in Tissue Regeneration

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are widely described in the context of their regenerative and immunomodulatory activity. MSCs are isolated from various tissues and organs. The most frequently described sources are bone marrow and adipose tissue. As stem cells, MSCs are able to differentiate into other cell lineages, but they are usually reported with respect to their paracrine potential. In this review, we focus on MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs) and their secretome in regeneration processes. Special attention is given to the contribution of AT-MSCs and their derivatives to angiogenic processes described mainly in the context of angiogenic dysfunction. Finally, we present clinical trials registered to date that concern the application of AT-MSCs and their secretome in various medical conditions.

OUP accepted manuscript

It is the hope of clinicians and patients alike that stem cell-based therapeutic products will increasingly become applicable remedies for many diseases and injuries. Whereas some multipotent stem cells are already routinely used in regenerative medicine, the efficacious and safe clinical translation of pluripotent stem cells is still hampered by their inherent immunogenicity and tumorigenicity. In addition, stem cells harbor the paracrine potential to affect the behavior of cells in their microenvironment. On the one hand, this property can mediate advantageous supportive effects on the overall therapeutic concept. However, in the last years, it became evident that both, multipotent and pluripotent stem cells, are capable of inducing adjacent cells to become motile. Not only in the context of tumor development but generally, deregulated mobilization and uncontrolled navigation of patient’s cells can have deleterious consequences for the therapeutic outcome. A more comprehensive understanding of this ubiquitous stem cell feature could allow its proper clinical handling and could thereby constitute an important building block for the further development of safe therapies.

Emerging Role of Epitranscriptomics in Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its related complications are among the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Substantial studies have explored epigenetic regulation that is involved in the modifications of DNA and proteins, but RNA modifications in diabetes are still poorly investigated. In recent years, posttranscriptional epigenetic modification of RNA (the so-called 'epitranscriptome') has emerged as an interesting field of research. Numerous modifications, mainly N⁶ -methyladenosine (m⁶A), have been identified in nearly all types of RNAs and have been demonstrated to have an indispensable effect in a variety of human diseases, such as cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, it is particularly important to understand the molecular basis of RNA modifications, which might provide a new perspective for the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and the discovery of new therapeutic targets. In this review, we aim to summarize the recent progress in the epitranscriptomics involved in diabetes and diabetes-related complications. We hope to provide some insights for enriching the understanding of the epitranscriptomic regulatory mechanisms of this disease as well as the development of novel therapeutic targets for future clinical benefit.

Nanostructured Modifications of Titanium Surfaces Improve Vascular Regenerative Properties of Exosomes Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Preliminary In Vitro Results

(1) Background: Implantation of metal-based scaffolds is a common procedure for treating several diseases. However, the success of the long-term application is limited by an insufficient endothelialization of the material surface. Nanostructured modifications of metal scaffolds represent a promising approach to faster biomaterial osteointegration through increasing of endothelial commitment of the mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). (2) Methods: Three different nanotubular Ti surfaces (TNs manufactured by electrochemical anodization with diameters of 25, 80, or 140 nm) were seeded with human MSCs (hMSCs) and their exosomes were isolated and tested with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to assess whether TNs can influence the secretory functions of hMSCs and whether these in turn affect endothelial and osteogenic cell activities in vitro. (3) Results: The hMSCs adhered on all TNs and significantly expressed angiogenic-related factors after 7 days of culture when compared to untreated Ti substrates. Nanomodifications of Ti surfaces significantly improved the release of hMSCs exosomes, having dimensions below 100 nm and expressing CD63 and CD81 surface markers. These hMSC-derived exosomes were efficiently internalized by HUVECs, promoting their migration and differentiation. In addition, they selectively released a panel of miRNAs directly or indirectly related to angiogenesis. (4) Conclusions: Preconditioning of hMSCs on TNs induced elevated exosomes secretion that stimulated in vitro endothelial and cell activity, which might improve in vivo angiogenesis, supporting faster scaffold integration.

Diverse RNAs in adipose-derived extracellular vesicles and their therapeutic potential

Adipose tissue, which is considered an energy storage and active endocrine organ, produces and secretes a large amount of adipokines to regulate distant targets through blood circulation, especially extracellular vesicles (EVs). As cell-derived, membranous nanoparticles, EVs have recently garnered great attention as novel mediators in establishing intercellular communications as well as in accelerating interorgan crosstalk. Studies have revealed that the RNAs, including coding RNAs (messenger RNAs) and noncoding RNAs (long noncoding RNAs, microRNAs, and circular RNAs) are key bioactive cargoes of EV functions in various pathophysiological processes, such as cell differentiation, metabolic homeostasis, immune signal transduction, and cancer. Moreover, certain EV-contained RNAs have gradually been recognized as novel biomarkers, prognostic indicators, or even therapeutic nanodrugs of diseases. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively summarize different classes of RNAs presented in adipose-derived EVs and discuss their therapeutic potential according to the latest research progress to provide valuable knowledge in this area.

Extracellular vesicles derived from lipoaspirate fluid promote fat graft survival

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are specific subcellular vesicles released by cells under various environmental conditions. Tumescent liposuction is a commonly used procedure in plastic surgery practice. In the present study, we aimed to extract EVs derived from lipoaspirate fluid (LF-EVs) and characterize them using transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and western blotting. The global profiles of proteins and microRNAs from LF-EVs were identified, strongly suggesting a potential regulatory function of LF-EVs. In addition, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of LF-EVs on fat graft survival. Cell functional tests showed that LF-EVs promoted the proliferation, migration, and tube structure formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. LF-EVs also promoted the adipogenic differentiation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells. The results of animal experiments showed that the average weights of fat grafts in the LF-EVs-treated group were significantly higher than those in the control group. Histologically, there was less fibrosis, fewer cysts, and increased fat tissue survival in the LF-EVs group. Further investigations of angiogenic and adipogenic factors revealed that LF-EVs also promoted angiogenesis and exerted a pro-adipogenic effect in vivo. Our findings will help to elucidate the functions of LF-EVs and provide a reference dataset for future translational studies.

OUHP: an optimized universal hairpin primer system for cost-effective and high-throughput RT-qPCR-based quantification of microRNA (miRNA) expression

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are single-stranded, ∼22-nucleotide noncoding RNAs that regulate many cellular processes. While numerous miRNA quantification technologies are available, a recent analysis of 12 commercial platforms revealed high variations in reproducibility, sensitivity, accuracy, specificity and concordance within and/or between platforms. Here, we developed a universal hairpin primer (UHP) system that negates the use of miRNA-specific hairpin primers (MsHPs) for quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR)-based miRNA quantification. Specifically, we analyzed four UHPs that share the same hairpin structure but are anchored with two, three, four and six degenerate nucleotides at 3'-ends (namely UHP2, UHP3, UHP4 and UHP6), and found that the four UHPs yielded robust RT products and quantified miRNAs with high efficiency. UHP-based RT-qPCR miRNA quantification was not affected by long transcripts. By analyzing 14 miRNAs, we demonstrated that UHP4 closely mimicked MsHPs in miRNA quantification. Fine-tuning experiments identified an optimized UHP (OUHP) mix with a molar composition of UHP2:UHP4:UHP6 = 8:1:1, which closely recapitulated MsHPs in miRNA quantification. Using synthetic LET7 isomiRs, we demonstrated that the OUHP-based qPCR system exhibited high specificity and sensitivity. Collectively, our results demonstrate that the OUHP system can serve as a reliable and cost-effective surrogate of MsHPs for RT-qPCR-based miRNA quantification for basic research and precision medicine.

ADSCs enhance VEGFR3-mediated lymphangiogenesis via METTL3-mediated VEGF-C m6A modification to improve wound healing of diabetic foot ulcers

BACKGROUND

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) are an important focus in regenerative medicine. However, the biological function of ADSCs in the wound repair of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the underlying mechanisms of ADSCs involved in the wound healing of DFUs.

METHODS

The cell surface markers cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34), stromal cell antigen 1 (Stro-1), cluster of differentiation 90 (CD90) and cluster of differentiation 105 (CD105) on ADSCs were identified by flow cytometry. Oil Red O staining and Alizarin Red S staining were performed to identify the multipotential differentiation of ADSCs into adipocytes and bone. The levels of Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) and insulin-like growth factor 2 binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) were assessed by RT-qPCR. CCK-8, Transwell and tubule formation assays were conducted to assess lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) viability, migration and tubule formation ability, respectively. RIP and RNA pulldown assays were conducted to assess the interaction between IGF2BP2 and VEGF-C. The levels of VEGF-C, VEGFR3, LYVE-1 and IGF2BP2 proteins were assessed by Western blotting. The levels of VEGF-C in LECs were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Our findings illustrated that ADSCs accelerate LEC proliferation, migration and lymphangiogenesis via the METTL3 pathway and regulate VEGF-C expression via the METTL3/IGF2BP2-m6A pathway VEGF-C-mediated lymphangiogenesis via the METTL3/IGF2BP2-m6A pathway in DFU mice.

CONCLUSION

ADSCs enhance VEGFR3-mediated lymphangiogenesis via METTL3-mediated VEGF-C m6A modification to improve wound healing in DFUs, indicating that ADSCs may be regarded as a promising therapeutic strategy to promote wound healing in DFUs.

Angiogenic Effects and Crosstalk of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Extracellular Vesicles with Endothelial Cells

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (ASCs) are an adult stem cell population able to self-renew and differentiate into numerous cell lineages. ASCs provide a promising future for therapeutic angiogenesis due to their ability to promote blood vessel formation. Specifically, their ability to differentiate into endothelial cells (ECs) and pericyte-like cells and to secrete angiogenesis-promoting growth factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs) makes them an ideal option in cell therapy and in regenerative medicine in conditions including tissue ischemia. In recent angiogenesis research, ASCs have often been co-cultured with an endothelial cell (EC) type in order to form mature vessel-like networks in specific culture conditions. In this review, we introduce co-culture systems and co-transplantation studies between ASCs and ECs. In co-cultures, the cells communicate via direct cell-cell contact or via paracrine signaling. Most often, ASCs are found in the perivascular niche lining the vessels, where they stabilize the vascular structures and express common pericyte surface proteins. In co-cultures, ASCs modulate endothelial cells and induce angiogenesis by promoting tube formation, partly via secretion of EVs. In vivo co-transplantation of ASCs and ECs showed improved formation of functional vessels over a single cell type transplantation. Adipose tissue as a cell source for both mesenchymal stem cells and ECs for co-transplantation serves as a prominent option for therapeutic angiogenesis and blood perfusion in vivo.

Antiparasitic mebendazole (MBZ) effectively overcomes cisplatin resistance in human ovarian cancer cells by inhibiting multiple cancer-associated signaling pathways

Ovarian cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most common cause of gynecologic cancer death in women. Its routine clinical management includes surgical resection and systemic therapy with chemotherapeutics. While the first-line systemic therapy requires the combined use of platinum-based agents and paclitaxel, many ovarian cancer patients have recurrence and eventually succumb to chemoresistance. Thus, it is imperative to develop new strategies to overcome recurrence and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer. Repurposing previously-approved drugs is a cost-effective strategy for cancer drug discovery. The antiparasitic drug mebendazole (MBZ) is one of the most promising drugs with repurposing potential. Here, we investigate whether MBZ can overcome cisplatin resistance and sensitize chemoresistant ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin. We first established and characterized two stable and robust cisplatin-resistant (CR) human ovarian cancer lines and demonstrated that MBZ markedly inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed cell wounding healing/migration, and induced apoptosis in both parental and CR cells at low micromole range. Mechanistically, MBZ was revealed to inhibit multiple cancer-related signal pathways including ELK/SRF, NFKB, MYC/MAX, and E2F/DP1 in cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. We further showed that MBZ synergized with cisplatin to suppress cell proliferation, induce cell apoptosis, and blunt tumor growth in xenograft tumor model of human cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that MBZ may be repurposed as a synergistic sensitizer of cisplatin in treating chemoresistant human ovarian cancer, which warrants further clinical studies.

Extracellular Vesicles of Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Therapeutic Properties Discovered with Extraordinary Success

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the cells distributed in the stromas of the body, are known for various properties including replication, the potential of various differentiations, the immune-related processes including inflammation. About two decades ago, these cells were shown to play relevant roles in the therapy of numerous diseases, dependent on their immune regulation and their release of cytokines and growth factors, with ensuing activation of favorable enzymes and processes. Such discovery induced great increase of their investigation. Soon thereafter, however, it became clear that therapeutic actions of MSCs are risky, accompanied by serious drawbacks and defects. MSC therapy has been therefore reduced to a few diseases, replaced for the others by their extracellular vesicles, the MSC-EVs. The latter vesicles recapitulate most therapeutic actions of MSCs, with equal or even better efficacies and without the serious drawbacks of the parent cells. In addition, MSC-EVs are characterized by many advantages, among which are their heterogeneities dependent on the stromas of origin, the alleviation of cell aging, the regulation of immune responses and inflammation. Here we illustrate the MSC-EV therapeutic effects, largely mediated by specific miRNAs, covering various diseases and pathological processes occurring in the bones, heart and vessels, kidney, and brain. MSC-EVs operate also on the development of cancers and on COVID-19, where they alleviate the organ lesions induced by the virus. Therapy by MSC-EVs can be improved by combination of their innate potential to engineering processes inducing precise targeting and transfer of drugs. The unique properties of MSC-EVs explain their intense studies, carried out with extraordinary success. Although not yet developed to clinical practice, the perspectives for proximal future are encouraging.

A functional autophagy pathway is essential for BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are capable of differentiating into bone, cartilage and adipose tissues. We identified BMP9 as the most potent osteoinductive BMP although detailed mechanism underlying BMP9-regulated osteogenesis of MSCs is indeterminate. Emerging evidence indicates that autophagy plays a critical role in regulating bone homeostasis. We investigated the possible role of autophagy in osteogenic differentiation induced by BMP9. We showed that BMP9 upregulated the expression of multiple autophagy-related genes in MSCs. Autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) inhibited the osteogenic activity induced by BMP9 in MSCs. While overexpression of ATG5 or ATG7 did not enhance osteogenic activity induced by BMP9, silencing Atg5 expression in MSCs effectively diminished BMP9 osteogenic signaling activity and blocked the expression of the osteogenic regulator Runx2 and the late marker osteopontin induced by BMP9. Stem cell implantation study revealed that silencing Atg5 in MSCs profoundly inhibited ectopic bone regeneration and bone matrix mineralization induced by BMP9. Collectively, our results strongly suggest a functional autophagy pathway may play an essential role in regulating osteogenic differentiation induced by BMP9 in MSCs. Thus, restoration of dysregulated autophagic activity in MSCs may be exploited to treat fracture healing, bone defects or osteoporosis.

Extracellular Vesicles from Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Review of Common Cargos

In recent years, the interest in adipose tissue mesenchymal cell–derived extracellular vesicles (AT-MSC-EVs) has increasingly grown. Numerous articles support the potential of human AT-MSC-EVs as a new therapeutic option for treatment of diverse diseases in the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, kidney, skin, and immune system, among others. This approach makes use of the molecules transported inside of EVs, which play an important role in cell communication and in transmission of macromolecules. However, to our knowledge, there is no database where essential information about AT-MSC-EVs cargo molecules is gathered for easy reference. The aim of this study is to describe the different molecules reported so far in AT-MSC- EVs, their main molecular functions, and biological processes in which they are involved. Recently, the presence of 591 proteins and 604 microRNAs (miRNAs) has been described in human AT-MSC-EVs. The main molecular function enabled by both proteins and miRNAs present in human AT-MSC-EVs is the binding function. Signal transduction and gene silencing are the biological processes in which a greater number of proteins and miRNAs from human AT-MSC-EVs are involved, respectively. In this review we highlight the therapeutics effects of AT-MSC-EVs related with their participation in relevant biological processes including inflammation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration, among others.

Exosomes secreted from mesenchymal stem cells mediate the regeneration of endothelial cells treated with rapamycin by delivering pro-angiogenic microRNAs

Delayed endothelial healing after drug eluting stent (DES) implantation is a critical clinical problem in treatment of coronary artery diseases. Exosomes exhibit proangiogenic potential in a variety of ischemic diseases. However, the association of exosomes with endothelial regeneration after DES implantation has been rarely reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes on endothelial cells treated with rapamycin and explore the potential mechanisms of MSC-derived exosomes in promoting endothelial regeneration. Exosomes were isolated from MSCs by ultracentrifugation and identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and Western blot assay. The in vitro effects of MSC-derived exosomes on the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells treated with rapamycin were evaluated by integrated experiment, cell counting kit-8, scratch, tube formation, and transwell assays. And the apoptosis of rapamycin-induced endothelial cells loaded with MSC-derived exosomes was detected using TUNEL and Annexin-V FITC and PI double-staining assays. The microRNA (miRNA) cargo of MSC-derived exosomes was identified by high-throughput RNA sequencing. Pro-angiogenic miRNAs and key pathways were further characterized. Our results indicated that MSC-derived exosomes could be ingested into umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and significantly enhanced cell proliferation rate, migratory and tube-forming capabilities in vitro. MSC-derived exosomes also inhibited the apoptosis of HUVECs induced by rapamycin. A distinct class of exosomal miRNAs was further identified, including six miRNAs tightly related to neovasculogenesis. Silencing the expression of exosomal miRNA-21-5p and let-7c-5p attenuated the pro-proliferative and pro-migratory capacity of MSC-derived exosomes. Moreover, functional enrichment analysis indicated that metabolic pathways might contribute to reendothelialization. This study highlights a proregenerative effect of MSC-derived exosomes in vitro, which may be partly explained by the delivery of pro-angiogenic miRNAs to endothelial cells.

Extracellular Vesicles from Adipose Tissue Stem Cells in Diabetes and Associated Cardiovascular Disease; Pathobiological Impact and Therapeutic Potential

Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells found in relatively high percentages in the adipose tissue and able to self-renew and differentiate into many different types of cells. “Extracellular vesicles (EVs), small membrane vesicular structures released during cell activation, senescence, or apoptosis, act as mediators for long distance communication between cells, transferring their specific bioactive molecules into host target cells”. There is a general consensus on how to define and isolate ADSCs, however, multiple separation and characterization protocols are being used in the present which complicate the results’ integration in a single theory on ADSCs’ and their derived factors’ way of action. Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are mainly caused by abnormal adipose tissue size, distribution and metabolism and so ADSCs and their secretory factors such as EVs are currently investigated as therapeutics in these diseases. Moreover, due to their relatively easy isolation and propagation in culture and their differentiation ability, ADSCs are being employed in preclinical studies of implantable devices or prosthetics. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge on EVs secreted from ADSCs both as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutics in diabetes and associated cardiovascular disease, the molecular mechanisms involved, as well as on the use of ADSC differentiation potential in cardiovascular tissue repair and prostheses.

FAMSi: A Synthetic Biology Approach to the Fast Assembly of Multiplex siRNAs for Silencing Gene Expression in Mammalian Cells

RNA interference (RNAi) is mediated by an ∼21-nt double-stranded small interfering RNA (siRNA) and shows great promise in delineating gene functions and in developing therapeutics for human diseases. However, effective gene silencing usually requires the delivery of multiple siRNAs for a given gene, which is often technically challenging and time-consuming. In this study, by exploiting the type IIS restriction endonuclease-based synthetic biology methodology, we developed the fast assembly of multiplex siRNAs (FAMSi) system. In our proof-of-concept experiments, we demonstrated that multiple fragments containing three, four, or five siRNA sites targeting common Smad4 and/or BMPR-specific Smad1, Smad5, and Smad8 required for BMP9 signaling could be assembled efficiently. The constructed multiplex siRNAs effectively knocked down the expression of Smad4 and/or Smad1, Smad5, and Smad8 in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and they inhibited all aspects of BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation in bone marrow MSCs (BMSCs), including decreased expression of osteogenic regulators/markers, reduced osteogenic marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and diminished in vitro matrix mineralization and in vivo ectopic bone formation. Collectively, we demonstrate that the engineered FAMSi system provides a fast-track platform for assembling multiplexed siRNAs in a single vector, and thus it may be a valuable tool to study gene functions or to develop novel siRNA-based therapeutics.

Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) promotes hepatic glycogen accumulation and reduces glucose level in hepatocytes through mTORC2 signaling pathway

Liver is an important organ for regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Recent studies have shown that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) may play important roles in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. In our previous studies, we demonstrated that BMP4 significantly inhibits hepatic steatosis and lowers serum triglycerides, playing a protective role against the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the direct impact of BMP4 on hepatic glucose metabolism is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the regulatory roles of BMP4 in hepatic glucose metabolism. Through a comprehensive analysis of the 14 types of BMPs, we found that BMP4 was one of the most potent BMPs in promoting hepatic glycogen accumulation, reducing the level of glucose in hepatocytes and effecting the expression of genes related to glucose metabolism. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that BMP4 reduced the hepatic glucose levels through the activation of mTORC2 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our findings strongly suggest that BMP4 may play an essential role in regulating hepatic glucose metabolism. This knowledge should aid us to understand the molecular pathogenesis of NAFLD, and may lead to the development of novel therapeutics by exploiting the inhibitory effects of BMPs on hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism.

Blockade of IGF/IGF-1R signaling axis with soluble IGF-1R mutants suppresses the cell proliferation and tumor growth of human osteosarcoma

Primary bone tumor, also known as osteosarcoma (OS), is the most common primary malignancy of bone in children and young adults. Current treatment protocols yield a 5-year survival rate of near 70% although approximately 80% of patients have metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. However, long-term survival rates have remained virtually unchanged for nearly four decades, largely due to our limited understanding of the disease process. One major signaling pathway that has been implicated in human OS tumorigenesis is the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling axis. IGF1R is a heterotetrameric α2β2 receptor, in which the α subunits comprise the ligand binding site, whereas the β subunits are transmembrane proteins containing intracellular tyrosine kinase domains. Although numerous strategies have been devised to target IGF/IGF1R axis, most of them have failed in clinical trials due to the lack of specificity and/or limited efficacy. Here, we investigated whether a more effective and specific blockade of IGF1R activity in human OS cells can be accomplished by employing dominant-negative IGF1R (dnIGF1R) mutants. We engineered the recombinant adenoviruses expressing two IGF1R mutants derived from the α (aa 1-524) and β (aa 741-936) subunits, and found that either dnIGF1Rα and/or dnIGF1Rβ effectively inhibited cell migration, colony formation, and cell cycle progression of human OS cells, which could be reversed by exogenous IGF1. Furthermore, dnIGF1Rα and/or dnIGF1Rβ inhibited OS xenograft tumor growth in vivo, with the greatest inhibition of tumor growth shown by dnIGF1Rα. Mechanistically, the dnIGF1R mutants down-regulated the expression of PI3K/AKT and RAS/RAF/MAPK, BCL2, Cyclin D1 and most EMT regulators, while up-regulating pro-apoptotic genes in human OS cells. Collectively, these findings strongly suggest that the dnIGF1R mutants, especially dnIGF1Rα, may be further developed as novel anticancer agents that target IGF signaling axis with high specificity and efficacy.

Exosomal MicroRNAs and Organotropism in Breast Cancer Metastasis

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy for women in which one in eight women will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. Despite advances made in treating primary breast cancer, there is still no effective treatment for metastatic breast cancer. Consequently, metastatic breast cancer is responsible for 90% of breast cancer-related deaths while only accounting for approximately one third of all breast cancer cases. To help develop effective treatments for metastatic breast cancer, it is important to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which breast cancer metastasizes, particularly, those underlying organotropism towards brain, bone, and lungs. In this review, we will primarily focus on the roles that circulating exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) play in organotropism of breast cancer metastasis. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that play critical roles in intercellular communication. MicroRNAs can be encapsulated in exosomes; cargo-loaded exosomes can be secreted by tumor cells into the tumor microenvironment to facilitate tumor-stroma interactions or released to circulation to prime distant organs for subsequent metastasis. Here, we will summarize our current knowledge on the biogenesis of exosomes and miRNAs, mechanisms of cargo sorting into exosomes, the exosomal miRNAs implicated in breast cancer metastasis, and therapeutic exosomal miRNAs.

The Proosteogenic and Proangiogenic Effects of Small Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Are Attenuated in Steroid-Induced Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) from individuals with steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) have not been studied. The objective of the present study was to compare the proosteogenic and proangiogenic effects of sEVs derived from BMMSCs from rats with steroid-induced ONFH (oBMMSCs-sEVs) and sEVs derived from BMMSCs from normal rats (nBMMSCs-sEVs). BMMSCs were isolated from steroid-induced ONFH rats and healthy rats. sEVs were isolated and characterized by Western blotting analysis of exosomal surface biomarkers and by transmission electron microscopy. The impacts of nBMMSCs-sEVs and oBMMSCs-sEVs on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs were determined via cell proliferation assay, alizarin red staining, and alkaline phosphatase activity assay. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and tube formation assay were conducted to investigate the effect of nBMMSCs-sEVs and oBMMSCs-sEVs on the angiogenic potential of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The expression of relevant genes was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, and the expression of β-catenin was detected by immunofluorescence. Both nBMMSCs-sEVs and oBMMSCs-sEVs promoted proliferation, osteogenic differentiation, and β-catenin expression of BMMSCs and enhanced angiogenesis of HUVECs. However, compared with nBMMSCs-sEVs, oBMMSCs-sEVs exhibited attenuated effects. Our findings indicated that the proosteogenic and proangiogenic effects of sEVs were partially attenuated in steroid-induced ONFH. Therefore, this study might offer guidance for the selection of source cells for sEV therapy in the future.

Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) alleviates hepatic steatosis by increasing hepatic lipid turnover and inhibiting the mTORC1 signaling axis in hepatocytes

Liver has numerous critical metabolic functions including lipid metabolism, which is usually dysregulated in obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Increasing evidence indicates bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play an important role in adipogenesis and thermogenic balance in adipogenic progenitors and adipose tissue. However, the direct impact of BMPs on hepatic steatosis and possible association with NAFLD are poorly understood. Here, we found that BMP4 was up-regulated in oleic acid-induced steatosis and during the development of high fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD. Exogenous BMP4 reduced lipid accumulation and up-regulated the genes involved in lipid synthesis, storage and breakdown in hepatocytes. Exogenous BMP4 inhibited hepatic steatosis, reduced serum triglyceride levels and body weight, and alleviated progression of NAFLD in vivo. Mechanistically, BMP4 overexpression in hepatocytes down-regulated most components of the mTORC1 signaling axis. Collectively, these findings strongly suggest that BMP4 may play an essential role in regulating hepatic lipid metabolism and the molecular pathogenesis of NAFLD. Manipulating BMP4 and/or mTORC1 signaling axis may lead to the development of novel therapeutics for obesity, metabolic syndrome, and NAFLD.