1
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Toghiani R, Azimian Zavareh V, Najafi H, Mirian M, Azarpira N, Abolmaali SS, Varshosaz J, Tamaddon AM. Hypoxia-preconditioned WJ-MSC spheroid-derived exosomes delivering miR-210 for renal cell restoration in hypoxia-reoxygenation injury. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:240. [PMID: 39080774 PMCID: PMC11289969 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03845-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent advancements in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) technology have paved the way for innovative treatment options for various diseases. These stem cells play a crucial role in tissue regeneration and repair, releasing local anti-inflammatory and healing signals. However, challenges such as homing issues and tumorigenicity have led to exploring MSC-exosomes as a promising alternative. MSC-exosomes have shown therapeutic potential in conditions like renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, but low production yields hinder their clinical use. METHODS To address this limitation, we examined hypoxic preconditioning of Wharton jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs) 3D-cultured in spheroids on isolated exosome yields and miR-21 expression. We then evaluated their capacity to load miR-210 into HEK-293 cells and mitigate ROS production, consequently enhancing their survival and migration under hypoxia-reoxygenation conditions. RESULTS MiR-210 overexpression was significantly induced by optimized culture and preconditioning conditions, which also improved the production yield of exosomes from grown MSCs. The exosomes enriched with miR-210 demonstrated a protective effect by improving survival, reducing apoptosis and ROS accumulation in damaged renal cells, and ultimately promoting cell migration. CONCLUSION The present study underscores the possibility of employing advanced techniques to maximize the therapeutic attributes of exosomes produced from WJ-MSC spheroid for improved recovery outcomes in ischemia-reperfusion injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Toghiani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Vajihe Azimian Zavareh
- Department of Plant and Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hanyieh Najafi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mina Mirian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Samira Sadat Abolmaali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jaleh Varshosaz
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Tamaddon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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2
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Kasturi M, Mathur V, Gadre M, Srinivasan V, Vasanthan KS. Three Dimensional Bioprinting for Hepatic Tissue Engineering: From In Vitro Models to Clinical Applications. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2024; 21:21-52. [PMID: 37882981 PMCID: PMC10764711 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-023-00576-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fabrication of functional organs is the holy grail of tissue engineering and the possibilities of repairing a partial or complete liver to treat chronic liver disorders are discussed in this review. Liver is the largest gland in the human body and plays a responsible role in majority of metabolic function and processes. Chronic liver disease is one of the leading causes of death globally and the current treatment strategy of organ transplantation holds its own demerits. Hence there is a need to develop an in vitro liver model that mimics the native microenvironment. The developed model should be a reliable to understand the pathogenesis, screen drugs and assist to repair and replace the damaged liver. The three-dimensional bioprinting is a promising technology that recreates in vivo alike in vitro model for transplantation, which is the goal of tissue engineers. The technology has great potential due to its precise control and its ability to homogeneously distribute cells on all layers in a complex structure. This review gives an overview of liver tissue engineering with a special focus on 3D bioprinting and bioinks for liver disease modelling and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Kasturi
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Vidhi Mathur
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Mrunmayi Gadre
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Varadharajan Srinivasan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Kirthanashri S Vasanthan
- Manipal Centre for Biotherapeutics Research, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India.
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3
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Thomaidou AC, Goulielmaki M, Tsintarakis A, Zoumpourlis P, Toya M, Christodoulou I, Zoumpourlis V. miRNA-Guided Regulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from the Umbilical Cord: Paving the Way for Stem-Cell Based Regeneration and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119189. [PMID: 37298143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is an abundant source of multipotent cells primed with unique properties that can be exploited in a multitude of applications and interventions. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a heterogenous population of undifferentiated cells programmed to self-renew and, depending on their origin, differentiate into distinct lineages. Alongside their proven ability to transmigrate toward inflammation sites, the secretion of various factors that participate in tissue regeneration and their immunoregulatory function render MSCs attractive candidates for use in the cytotherapy of a wide spectrum of diseases and conditions, as well as in different aspects of regenerative medicine. In particular, MSCs that can be found in fetal, perinatal, or neonatal tissues possess additional capabilities, including predominant proliferation potential, increased responsiveness to environmental stimuli, and hypoimmunogenicity. Since microRNA (miRNA)-guided gene regulation governs multiple cellular functions, miRNAs are increasingly being studied in the context of driving the differentiation process of MSCs. In the present review, we explore the mechanisms of miRNA-directed differentiation of MSCs, with a special focus on umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs), and we identify the most relevant miRNAs and miRNA sets and signatures. Overall, we discuss the potent exploitations of miRNA-driven multi-lineage differentiation and regulation of UCMSCs in regenerative and therapeutic protocols against a range of diseases and/or injuries that will achieve a meaningful clinical impact through maximizing treatment success rates, while lacking severe adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsinoe C Thomaidou
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Maria Goulielmaki
- Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Center, Cancer Research Center, Saint Savas Cancer Hospital, 11522 Athens, Greece
| | - Antonis Tsintarakis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Marialena Toya
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Christodoulou
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Biomedical Applications Unit, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation (NHRF), 11635 Athens, Greece
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4
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Ghorbani-Dalini S, Azarpira N, Sangtarash MH, Urbach V, Yaghobi R, Soleimanpour-Lichaei HR, Sarshar M. Optimization of 3D islet-like cluster derived from human pluripotent stem cells: an efficient in vitro differentiation protocol. Gene 2022; 845:146855. [PMID: 36058497 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Development of an optimized protocol to produce sufficient functional human insulin-producing islet-like cluster is important as a potential therapeutic strategy for diabetes as well as in vitro studies. Here, we described a stepwise protocol for differentiation of the human induced pluripotent stem cell line (R1-hiPSC1) into the islet-like cluster using several growth factors and small molecules. Therefore, various differentiation steps have been adopted to maximize mimicking of developmental processes in order to form functional islet like cluster. The differentiation protocol enables us to generate 3D islet-like clusters with highly viable cells, which are insulin producer and glucose responsive. Transcriptome analysis of transcription factors and functional genes revealed high coordination between gene expressions and resembling to those reported during natural development of islet cell. This coordination was further confirmed by hierarchical clustering of genes during differentiation. Furthermore, the islet-like clusters were enriched with insulin producing cells and formed glucose responsiveness behavior upon stimulation with glucose. Our protocol provides a robust platform and well-behaved model for additional developmental studies and shed light our clusters as a good candidate for in vitro model. Further studies are needed to assess the hormonal content of this cluster as well as transplantation into the animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Ghorbani-Dalini
- Department of Research and Development, CBSAlife Ltd., Richardson Center of Food Technology and Research, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | | | - Valérie Urbach
- Insitut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale, U1151 Paris, France
| | - Ramin Yaghobi
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Soleimanpour-Lichaei
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Sarshar
- Research Laboratories, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
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5
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Tang Y, Wu P, Li L, Xu W, Jiang J. Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Small Extracellular Vesicles as Crucial Immunological Efficacy for Hepatic Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:880523. [PMID: 35603168 PMCID: PMC9121380 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.880523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell small extracellular vesicles (MSC-sEVs) are a priority for researchers because of their role in tissue regeneration. sEVs act as paracrine factors and carry various cargos, revealing the state of the parent cells and contributing to cell–cell communication during both physiological and pathological circumstances. Hepatic diseases are mainly characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration and hepatocyte necrosis and fibrosis, bringing the focus onto immune regulation and other regulatory mechanisms of MSCs/MSC-sEVs. Increasing evidence suggests that MSCs and their sEVs protect against acute and chronic liver injury by inducing macrophages (MΦ) to transform into the M2 subtype, accelerating regulatory T/B (Treg/Breg) cell activation and promoting immunosuppression. MSCs/MSC-sEVs also prevent the proliferation and differentiation of T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells. This review summarizes the potential roles for MSCs/MSC-sEVs, including immunomodulation and tissue regeneration, in various liver diseases. There is also a specific focus on the use of MSC-sEVs for targeted drug delivery to treat hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Tang
- Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Aoyang Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosome Foundation and Transformation Application, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Peipei Wu
- Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Aoyang Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosome Foundation and Transformation Application, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Linli Li
- Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Aoyang Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosome Foundation and Transformation Application, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Wenrong Xu
- Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Aoyang Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosome Foundation and Transformation Application, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Wenrong Xu, ; Jiajia Jiang,
| | - Jiajia Jiang
- Aoyang Institute of Cancer, Affiliated Aoyang Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, China
- Zhenjiang Key Laboratory of High Technology Research on Exosome Foundation and Transformation Application, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Wenrong Xu, ; Jiajia Jiang,
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6
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Xie Y, Yao J, Jin W, Ren L, Li X. Induction and Maturation of Hepatocyte-Like Cells In Vitro: Focus on Technological Advances and Challenges. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:765980. [PMID: 34901010 PMCID: PMC8662991 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.765980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited by the poor proliferation and restricted sources of adult hepatocytes, there is an urgent need to find substitutes for proliferation and cultivation of mature hepatocytes in vitro for use in disease treatment, drug approval, and toxicity testing. Hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs), which originate from undifferentiated stem cells or modified adult cells, are considered good candidates because of their advantages in terms of cell source and in vitro expansion ability. However, the majority of induced HLCs are in an immature state, and their degree of differentiation is heterogeneous, diminishing their usability in basic research and limiting their clinical application. Therefore, various methods have been developed to promote the maturation of HLCs, including chemical approaches, alteration of cell culture systems, and genetic manipulation, to meet the needs of in vivo transplantation and in vitro model establishment. This review proposes different cell types for the induction of HLCs, and provide a comprehensive overview of various techniques to promote the generation and maturation of HLCs in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xie
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jia Yao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
| | - Weilin Jin
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Longfei Ren
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xun Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China.,The Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,The Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Institute of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
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7
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Zhang SY, Ren JY, Yang B. Priming strategies for controlling stem cell fate: Applications and challenges in dental tissue regeneration. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1625-1646. [PMID: 34909115 PMCID: PMC8641023 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i11.1625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have attracted intense interest in the field of dental tissue regeneration. Dental tissue is a popular source of MSCs because MSCs can be obtained with minimally invasive procedures. MSCs possess distinct inherent properties of self-renewal, immunomodulation, proangiogenic potential, and multilineage potency, as well as being readily available and easy to culture. However, major issues, including poor engraftment and low survival rates in vivo, remain to be resolved before large-scale application is feasible in clinical treatments. Thus, some recent investigations have sought ways to optimize MSC functions in vitro and in vivo. Currently, priming culture conditions, pretreatment with mechanical and physical stimuli, preconditioning with cytokines and growth factors, and genetic modification of MSCs are considered to be the main strategies; all of which could contribute to improving MSC efficacy in dental regenerative medicine. Research in this field has made tremendous progress and continues to gather interest and stimulate innovation. In this review, we summarize the priming approaches for enhancing the intrinsic biological properties of MSCs such as migration, antiapoptotic effect, proangiogenic potential, and regenerative properties. Challenges in current approaches associated with MSC modification and possible future solutions are also indicated. We aim to outline the present understanding of priming approaches to improve the therapeutic effects of MSCs on dental tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jia-Yin Ren
- Department of Oral Radiology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Bo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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8
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Zare S, Ahmadi R, Mohammadnia A, Nilforoushzadeh MA, Mahmoodi M. Biological Characteristics and Optical Reflectance Spectroscopy of Human Placenta Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Application in Regenerative Medicine. J Lasers Med Sci 2021; 12:e18. [PMID: 34733741 DOI: 10.34172/jlms.2021.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The efficiency of stem cell isolation, culture, and biological characterization techniques for treatment is facing serious challenges. The purpose of this study was to provide a protocol for isolation and culture of three types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from the human placenta, amniotic membrane, and umbilical cord with high efficiency used for cell therapy. Methods: During this experimental laboratory study, 10 complete placenta samples were prepared from cesarean section mothers. The protocol for isolation and culture of mesenchymal cells from the placenta tissue, umbilical cord, and amniotic membrane was enzymatically optimized. The morphological features of mesenchymal cells were investigated using an inverted microscope and their biological features were measured using flow cytometry. The differentiation potential of the cells was evaluated by measuring their differentiation capacity into osteocytes and adipocytes. The absorption and reflectance features of the cells were recorded by optical spectroscopy. Finally, the data were statistically analyzed. Results: The expression of CD44, CD73, CD90 and CD29 markers in human placenta tissue-derived cells was significant. CD14, CD34 and CD45 markers were not expressed or were slightly expressed. These cells were highly viable and successfully differentiated into osteocytes and adipocytes. MSCs absorbed more light than visible light by showing light absorption peaks at wavelengths of about 435 and 550 nm. Conclusion: The protocol used in this study for isolation and culture of human placenta tissue-derived MSCs had significant efficiency for the production of MSCs for use in cell therapy and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sona Zare
- Department of Biology, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Rahim Ahmadi
- Department of Biology, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Mohammadnia
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Minoo Mahmoodi
- Department of Biology, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
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9
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Xu H, Wu L, Yuan G, Liang X, Liu X, Li Z, Chen N, Farzaneh M. MicroRNAs: Crucial Players in the Differentiation of Human Pluripotent and Multipotent Stem Cells into Functional Hepatocyte-Like Cells. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 17:734-740. [PMID: 34615452 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x16666211006102039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hepatic disease negatively impacts liver function and metabolism. Primary human hepatocytes are the gold standard for the prediction and successful treatment of liver disease. However, the sources of hepatocytes for drug toxicity testing and disease modeling are limited. To overcome this issue, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have emerged as an alternative strategy for liver disease therapy. Human PSCs, including embryonic stem cells (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) can self-renew and give rise to all cells of the body. Human PSCs are attractive cell sources for regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, drug discovery, and developmental studies. Several recent studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can also differentiate (or trans-differentiate) into hepatocytes. Differentiation of human PSCs and MSCs into functional hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) opens new strategies to study genetic diseases, hepatotoxicity, infection of hepatotropic viruses, and analyze hepatic biology. Numerous in vitro and in vivo differentiation protocols have been established to obtain human PSCs/MSCs-derived HLCs and mimic their characteristics. It was recently discovered that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in controlling the ectopic expression of transcription factors and governing the hepatocyte differentiation of human PSCs and MSCs. In this review, we focused on the role of miRNAs in the differentiation of human PSCs and MSCs into hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Liying Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Guojia Yuan
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Xiaolu Liang
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Xiaoguang Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Zuobiao Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Nianping Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong. China
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz. Iran
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10
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Ghafouri-Fard S, Moghadam MHB, Shoorei H, Bahroudi Z, Taheri M, Taheriazam A. The impact of non-coding RNAs on normal stem cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:112050. [PMID: 34426251 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-renewal and differentiation into diverse cells are two main characteristics of stem cells. These cells have important roles in development and homeostasis of different tissues and are supposed to facilitate tissue regeneration. Function of stem cells is regulated by dynamic interactions between external signaling, epigenetic factors, and molecules that regulate expression of genes. Among the highly appreciated regulators of function of stem cells are long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). Impact of miR-342-5p, miR-145, miR-1297, miR-204-5p, miR-132, miR-128-3p, hsa-miR-302, miR-26b-5p and miR-10a are among miRNAs that regulate function of stem cells. Among lncRNAs, AK141205, ANCR, MEG3, Pnky, H19, TINCR, HULC, EPB41L4A-AS1 and SNHG7 have important roles in the regulation of stem cells. In the current paper, we aimed at reviewing the importance of miRNAs and lncRNAs in differentiation of stem cells both in normal and diseased conditions. For this purpose, we searched PubMed/Medline and google scholar databases using "stem cell" AND "lncRNA", or "long non-coding RNA", or "microRNA" or "miRNA".
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hamed Shoorei
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahroudi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Department of Orthopedics, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Beldi G, Bahiraii S, Lezin C, Nouri Barkestani M, Abdelgawad ME, Uzan G, Naserian S. TNFR2 Is a Crucial Hub Controlling Mesenchymal Stem Cell Biological and Functional Properties. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:596831. [PMID: 33344453 PMCID: PMC7746825 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.596831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have drawn lots of attention as gold standard stem cells in fundamental and clinical researches during the last 20 years. Due to their tissue and vascular repair capacities, MSCs have been used to treat a variety of degenerative disorders. Moreover, MSCs are able to modulate immune cells’ functions, particularly T cells while inducing regulatory T cells (iTregs). MSCs are very sensitive to inflammatory signals. Their biological functions could remarkably vary after exposure to different pro-inflammatory cytokines, notably TNFα. In this article, we have explored the importance of TNFR2 expression in a series of MSCs’ biological and functional properties. Thus, MSCs from wild-type (WT) and TNFR2 knockout (TNFR2 KO) mice were isolated and underwent several ex vivo experiments to investigate the biological significance of TNFR2 molecule in MSC main functions. Hampering in TNFR2 signaling resulted in reduced MSC colony-forming units and proliferation rate and diminished the expression of all MSC characteristic markers such as stem cell antigen-1 (Sca1), CD90, CD105, CD44, and CD73. TNFR2 KO-MSCs produced more pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNFα, IFNγ, and IL-6 and less anti-inflammatory mediators such as IL-10, TGFβ, and NO and induced Tregs with less suppressive effect. Furthermore, the TNFR2 blockade remarkably decreased MSC regenerative functions such as wound healing, complex tube formation, and endothelial pro-angiogenic support. Therefore, our results reveal the TNFα–TNFR2 axis as a crucial regulator of MSC immunological and regenerative functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Beldi
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France
| | - Sheyda Bahiraii
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Chloé Lezin
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Mohamed Essameldin Abdelgawad
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France.,Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Georges Uzan
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Sina Naserian
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France.,CellMedEx, Saint Maur Des Fossés, France
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12
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Beldi G, Khosravi M, Abdelgawad ME, Salomon BL, Uzan G, Haouas H, Naserian S. TNFα/TNFR2 signaling pathway: an active immune checkpoint for mesenchymal stem cell immunoregulatory function. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:281. [PMID: 32669116 PMCID: PMC7364521 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01740-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to their multilineage potential, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a broad range of functions from tissue regeneration to immunomodulation. MSCs have the ability to modulate the immune response and change the progression of different inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. However, there are still many challenges to overcome before their widespread clinical administration including the mechanisms behind their immunoregulatory function. MSCs inhibit effector T cells and other immune cells, while inducing regulatory T cells (T regs), thus, reducing directly and indirectly the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. TNF/TNFR signaling plays a dual role: while the interaction of TNFα with TNFR1 mediates pro-inflammatory effects and cell death, its interaction with TNFR2 mediates anti-inflammatory effects and cell survival. Many immunosuppressive cells like T regs, regulatory B cells (B regs), endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) express TNFR2, and this is directly related to their immunosuppression efficiency. In this article, we investigated the role of the TNFα/TNFR2 immune checkpoint signaling pathway in the immunomodulatory capacities of MSCs. METHODS Co-cultures of MSCs from wild-type (WT) and TNFR2 knocked-out (TNFR2 KO) mice with T cells (WT and TNFα KO) were performed under various experimental conditions. RESULTS We demonstrate that TNFR2 is a key regulatory molecule which is strongly involved in the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs. This includes their ability to suppress T cell proliferation, activation, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production, in addition to their capacity to induce active T regs. CONCLUSIONS Our results reveal for the first time the importance of the TNFα/TNFR2 axis as an active immune checkpoint regulating MSC immunological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Beldi
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (INSAT), Carthage University, LR18ES40, Inflammation, environment and signalization pathologies, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Maryam Khosravi
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Mohamed Essameldin Abdelgawad
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Biochemistry Division, Chemistry department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Benoît L Salomon
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, France
| | - Georges Uzan
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France.,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Houda Haouas
- National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (INSAT), Carthage University, LR18ES40, Inflammation, environment and signalization pathologies, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Sina Naserian
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197, Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France. .,Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France. .,CellMedEx, Saint Maur Des Fossés, France.
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13
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Wang X, Yuan W, Xu Y, Yuan H, Li F. Sensitive multiplex detection of MicroRNAs based on liquid suspension nano-chip. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1112:24-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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14
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Ghorbani-Dalini S, Azarpira N, Sangtarash MH, Soleimanpour-Lichaei HR, Yaghobi R, Lorzadeh S, Sabet A, Sarshar M, Al-Abdullah IH. Optimization of activin-A: a breakthrough in differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell into definitive endoderm. 3 Biotech 2020; 10:215. [PMID: 32355589 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-02215-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The first step in differentiation of pluripotent stem cell toward endoderm-derived cell/organ is differentiation to definitive endoderm (DE) which is the central issue in developmental biology. Based on several evidences, we hypothesized that activin-A optimization as well as replacement of fetal bovine serum (FBS) with knockout serum replacement (KSR) is important for differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line into DE. Therefore, a stepwise differentiation protocol was applied on R1-hiPSC1 cell line. At first, activin-A concentration (30, 50, 70 and 100 ng/ml) was optimized. Then, substitution of FBS with KSR was evaluated across four treatment groups. The amount of differentiation of iPSC toward DE was determined by quantitative gene expression analyses of pluripotency (NANOG and OCT4), definitive endoderm (SOX17 and FOXA2) and endoderm-derived organs (PDX1, NEUROG3, and PAX6). Based on gene expression analyses, the more decrease in concentrations of activin-A can increase the differentiation of iPSC into DE, therefore, 30 ng/ml activin-A was chosen as the best concentration for the differentiation of R1-hiPSC1 line toward endoderm-derived organ. Moreover, complete replacement of FBS with gradually increased KSR improved the differentiation of iPSC toward DE. For this reason, the addition of 0% KSR at day 1, 0.2% at day 2 and 2% for the next 3 days was the best optimal protocol of the differentiation of iPSC toward DE. Overall, our results demonstrate that optimization of activin-A is important for differentiation of iPSC line. Furthermore, the replacement of FBS with KSR can improve the efficiency of iPSC differentiation toward DE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Negar Azarpira
- 1Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Reza Soleimanpour-Lichaei
- 3Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Yaghobi
- 1Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Lorzadeh
- 1Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alice Sabet
- 1Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Meysam Sarshar
- 4Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, 00185 Rome, Italy
- 5Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, 1316943551 Tehran, Iran
| | - Ismail H Al-Abdullah
- 6Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, USA
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15
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Tricot T, De Boeck J, Verfaillie C. Alternative Cell Sources for Liver Parenchyma Repopulation: Where Do We Stand? Cells 2020; 9:E566. [PMID: 32121068 PMCID: PMC7140465 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute and chronic liver failure is a highly prevalent medical condition with high morbidity and mortality. Currently, the therapy is orthotopic liver transplantation. However, in some instances, chiefly in the setting of metabolic diseases, transplantation of individual cells, specifically functional hepatocytes, can be an acceptable alternative. The gold standard for this therapy is the use of primary human hepatocytes, isolated from livers that are not suitable for whole organ transplantations. Unfortunately, primary human hepatocytes are scarcely available, which has led to the evaluation of alternative sources of functional hepatocytes. In this review, we will compare the ability of most of these candidate alternative cell sources to engraft and repopulate the liver of preclinical animal models with the repopulation ability found with primary human hepatocytes. We will discuss the current shortcomings of the different cell types, and some of the next steps that we believe need to be taken to create alternative hepatocyte progeny capable of regenerating the failing liver.
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16
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Afshari A, Shamdani S, Uzan G, Naserian S, Azarpira N. Different approaches for transformation of mesenchymal stem cells into hepatocyte-like cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:54. [PMID: 32033595 PMCID: PMC7007672 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-1555-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the prominent role of the liver in the body and detoxification, its functionality can be affected in an irreversible manner by diseases. This phenomenon renders the liver to stop working, leading to morbidity and mortality. Therefore, liver transplantation is the only way to tackle this issue.In order to compensate for the lack of adequate healthy liver tissue for transplantation, therapeutic approaches such as hepatocyte transplantation have been proposed as an alternative. Recognizing the fact that mesenchymal stem cells are adult stem cells with the capacity to differentiate into several cell types, different methods have been invented to produce hepatocyte-like cells from mesenchymal stem cells. They can be divided into three main categories, such as addition of cytokines and growth factors, genetic modifications, and adjustment of microenvironment as well as physical parameters.In this review, we attempted to introduce diverse efficient methods for differentiating mesenchymal stem cells and their capability for transformation into hepatocyte-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsoon Afshari
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Khalili street, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sara Shamdani
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197/Ministry of the Armed Forces, Biomedical Research Institute of the Armed Forces (IRBA), Paul-Brousse Hospital Villejuif and CTSA Clamart, 94807, Villejuif, France.,SivanCell, Tehran, Iran.,CellMedEx, Saint Maur Des Fossés, France
| | - Georges Uzan
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197/Ministry of the Armed Forces, Biomedical Research Institute of the Armed Forces (IRBA), Paul-Brousse Hospital Villejuif and CTSA Clamart, 94807, Villejuif, France
| | - Sina Naserian
- INSERM UMR-S-MD 1197/Ministry of the Armed Forces, Biomedical Research Institute of the Armed Forces (IRBA), Paul-Brousse Hospital Villejuif and CTSA Clamart, 94807, Villejuif, France.,SivanCell, Tehran, Iran.,CellMedEx, Saint Maur Des Fossés, France
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Khalili street, Shiraz, Iran.
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17
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Hu C, Wu Z, Li L. Pre-treatments enhance the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells in liver diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:40-49. [PMID: 31691463 PMCID: PMC6933358 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases caused by viral infection, alcohol abuse and metabolic disorders can progress to end‐stage liver failure, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, which are a growing cause of death worldwide. Although liver transplantation and hepatocyte transplantation are useful strategies to promote liver regeneration, they are limited by scarce sources of organs and hepatocytes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) restore liver injury after hepatogenic differentiation and exert immunomodulatory, anti‐inflammatory, antifibrotic, antioxidative stress and antiapoptotic effects on liver cells in vivo. After isolation and culture in vitro, MSCs are faced with nutrient and oxygen deprivation, and external growth factors maintain MSC capacities for further applications. In addition, MSCs are placed in a harsh microenvironment, and anoikis and inflammation after transplantation in vivo significantly decrease their regenerative capacity. Pre‐treatment with chemical agents, hypoxia, an inflammatory microenvironment and gene modification can protect MSCs against injury, and pre‐treated MSCs show improved hepatogenic differentiation, homing capacity, survival and paracrine effects in vitro and in vivo in regard to attenuating liver injury. In this review, we mainly focus on pre‐treatments and the underlying mechanisms for improving the therapeutic effects of MSCs in various liver diseases. Thus, we provide evidence for the development of MSC‐based cell therapy to prevent acute or chronic liver injury. Mesenchymal stem cells have potential as a therapeutic to prolong the survival of patients with end‐stage liver diseases in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxia Hu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhongwen Wu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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18
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Yin F, Wang WY, Jiang WH. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo: From biological characteristics to therapeutic mechanisms. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:548-564. [PMID: 31523373 PMCID: PMC6716089 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i8.548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic injuries, characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix or scar tissue within the liver; in addition, its formation is associated with multiple cytokines as well as several cell types and a variety of signaling pathways. When liver fibrosis is not well controlled, it can progress to liver cirrhosis, but it is reversible in principle. Thus far, no efficient therapy is available for treatment of liver fibrosis. Although liver transplantation is the preferred strategy, there are many challenges remaining in this approach, such as shortage of donor organs, immunological rejection, and surgical complications. Hence, there is a great need for an alternative therapeutic strategy. Currently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is considered a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis; advantageously, the characteristics of MSCs are continuous self-renewal, proliferation, multipotent differentiation, and immunomodulatory activities. The human umbilical cord-derived (hUC)-MSCs possess not only the common attributes of MSCs but also more stable biological characteristics, relatively easy accessibility, abundant source, and no ethical issues (e.g., bone marrow being the adult source), making hUC-MSCs a good choice for treatment of liver fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics of hUC-MSCs and their paracrine effects, exerted by secretion of various cytokines, which ultimately promote liver repair through several signaling pathways. Additionally, we discuss the capacity of hUC-MSCs to differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells for compensating the function of existing hepatocytes, which may aid in amelioration of liver fibrosis. Finally, we discuss the current status of the research field and its future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Yin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Ying Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Hua Jiang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Basic Medical College of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
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