Suppressive effect of compact bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells on chronic airway remodeling in murine model of asthma. Int Immunopharmacol. 2014;20:101-109. [PMID: 24613203 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.02.028]

Effects of human adipose tissue- and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on airway inflammation and remodeling in a murine model of chronic asthma

It is challenging to overcome difficult-to-treat asthma, and cell-based therapies are attracting increasing interest. We assessed the effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatments using a murine model of chronic ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged asthma. We developed a murine model of chronic allergic asthma using OVA sensitization and challenge. Human adipose-derived MSCs (hADSCs) or human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hBMSCs) were administered. We measured the levels of resistin-like molecule-β (RELM-β). We also measured RELM-β in asthma patients and normal controls. OVA-challenged mice exhibited increased airway hyper-responsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling. hBMSC treatment remarkably decreased airway hyper-responsiveness but hADSC treatment did not. Both MSCs alleviated airway inflammation, but hBMSCs tended to have a more significant effect. hBMSC treatment reduced Th2-cytokine levels but hADSC treatment did not. Both treatments reduced airway remodeling. The RELM-β level decreased in the OVA-challenged control group, but increased in both treatment groups. We found that the serum level of RELM-β was lower in asthma patients than controls. MSC treatments alleviated the airway inflammation, hyper-responsiveness, and remodeling associated with chronic asthma. hBMSCs were more effective than hADSCs. The RELM-β levels increased in both treatment groups; the RELM-β level may serve as a biomarker of MSC treatment efficacy.

Immunoregulatory effect of mesenchymal stem cell via mitochondria signaling pathways in allergic asthma

Asthma is a complicated lung disease, which has increased morbidity and mortality rates in worldwide. There is an overlap between asthma pathophysiology and mitochondrial dysfunction and MSCs may have regulatory effect on mitochondrial dysfunction and treats asthma. Therefore, immune-modulatory effect of MSCs and mitochondrial signaling pathways in asthma was studied.

After culturing of MSCs and producing asthma animal model, the mice were treated with MSCs via IV via IT. BALf's eosinophil Counting, The levels of IL-4, −5, −13, −25, –33, INF-γ, Cys-LT, LTB4, LTC4, mitochondria genes expression of COX-1, COX-2, ND1, Nrf2, Cytb were measured and lung histopathological study were done.

BALf's eosinophils, the levels of IL-4, −5, −13, −25, –33, LTB4, LTC4, Cys-LT, the mitochondria genes expression (COX-1, COX-2, Cytb and ND-1), perivascular and peribronchial inflammation, mucus hyper-production and hyperplasia of the goblet cell in pathological study were significantly decreased in MSCs-treated asthma mice and reverse trend was found about Nrf-2 gene expression, IFN-γ level and ratio of the INF-γ/IL-4.

MSC therapy can control inflammation, immune-inflammatory factors in asthma and mitochondrial related genes, and prevent asthma immune-pathology.

Old Friends with Unexploited Perspectives: Current Advances in Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapies in Asthma

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a great regenerative and immunomodulatory potential that was successfully tested in numerous pre-clinical and clinical studies of various degenerative, hematological and inflammatory disorders. Over the last few decades, substantial immunoregulatory effects of MSC treatment were widely observed in different experimental models of asthma. Therefore, it is tempting to speculate that stem cell-based treatment could become an attractive means to better suppress asthmatic airway inflammation, especially in subjects resistant to currently available anti-inflammatory therapies. In this review, we discuss mechanisms accounting for potent immunosuppressive properties of MSCs and the rationale for their use in asthma. We describe in detail an intriguing interplay between MSCs and other crucial players in the immune system as well as lung microenvironment. Finally, we reveal the potential of MSCs in maintaining airway epithelial integrity and alleviating lung remodeling.

Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells in orthopaedics and the emergence of compact bone mesenchymal stem cells as a promising surgical adjunct

The potential clinical and economic impact of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is immense. MSCs act through multiple pathways: (1) as “trophic” cells, secreting various factors that are immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, proangiogenic, proliferative, and chemoattractive; (2) in conjunction with cells native to the tissue they reside in to enhance differentiation of surrounding cells to facilitate tissue regrowth. Researchers have developed methods for the extraction and expansion of MSCs from animal and human tissues. While many sources of MSCs exist, including adipose tissue and iliac crest bone graft, compact bone (CB) MSCs have shown great potential for use in orthopaedic surgery. CB MSCs exert powerful immunomodulatory effects in addition to demonstrating excellent regenerative capacity for use in filling boney defects. CB MSCs have been shown to have enhanced response to hypoxic conditions when compared with other forms of MSCs. More work is needed to continue to characterize the potential applications for CB MSCs in orthopaedic trauma.

A narrative review of research advances in mesenchymal stem cell therapy for asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that involves multiple cells, including inflammatory cells, structural cells, and cellular components. Glucocorticoids and beta-receptor agonists are still the first choices for asthma treatment. However, the asthma symptoms may still be poorly controlled in some patients after an optimal treatment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are characterized by the potential for multi-directional differentiation and can exert immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Its role in treating asthma has increasingly been recognized in recent years. In this review article, we sought to summarize the recent advances in the therapeutic effects of MSCs on several types of asthma and explain the relevant mechanisms. Articles on asthma treatment with MSCs as of January 2020 were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases. It was found that MSCs have therapeutic effects on allergic asthma, non-allergic asthma and occupational asthma; gene-modified or pretreated MSCs improves the therapeutic effects of MSCs in asthma; MSC-derived conditioned medium or extracellular vesicles possess the considerable curative effect as MSC on asthma; and MSCs exert their therapeutic effects on asthma by restoring Th1/Th2 balance, reversing Th17/Tregs imbalance, inhibiting DC maturation, and promoting the switch of M1 to M2 and repairing epithelial injury. Thus, MSCs may be a promising treatment for asthma.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Asthma

Asthma is one of the worldwide respiratory health problem that affect children and adult. Current treatment strategies such as conventional and allergen immunotherapy still fall behind. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have wide regenerative capacity and immunoregulatory activity with their wide range of secretions and contact dependent manner. In this review, we focus on the current treatment strategies for asthma and MSCs as a new therapeutic tool.

Evaluation of Human MSCs Treatment Frequency on Airway Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Acute Asthma

BACKGROUND

Studies in experimental models of allergic asthma have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have therapeutic potential for T-helper 2 (T_H2) cell-mediated inflammation. However, the mechanisms underlying these therapeutic effects are not fully understood and their safety has not been confirmed.

METHODS

Using a mouse model of experimental allergic asthma, we investigated the efficacy of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) or human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) according to treatment frequency and timing.

RESULTS

Ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized and -challenged mice exhibited airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), airway inflammation, and significant increases in T_H2 cytokine levels. Both double and single human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) treatments significantly decreased AHR and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid counts. In addition, single treatment with hMSCs showed significant attenuation of allergic airway inflammation. However, double treatment with hMSCs during OVA -sensitization and -challenge further increased inflammatory cell infiltration, and T_H2 cytokine levels.

CONCLUSION

The results of treatment with hADSCs or hBMSCs suppresses AHR and airway inflammation. However, double hMSC treatment significantly induces eosinophilic airway inflammation and lung histological changes. Therefore, double hMSC treatment is ineffective against asthma and single injection frequency appears to be more important for the treatment of asthma. These results suggest that hMSC therapy can be used for treatment of asthma patients but that it should be used carefully.

Asthma immunotherapy and treatment approaches with mesenchymal stem cells

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways where exaggerated T helper 2 immune responses and inflammatory mediators play a role. Current asthma treatment options can effectively suppress symptoms and control the inflammatory process; however, cannot modulate the dysregulated immune response. Allergen-specific immunotherapy is one of the effective treatments capable of disease modification. Injecting allergens under the skin in allergen-specific immunotherapy can reduce asthma and improve the sensitivity of the lungs, however, has a risk of severe reactions. Mesenchymal stem cells have immunoregulatory activity with their soluble mediators and contact dependent manner. In this review, we focus on the current treatment strategies with mesenchymal stem cells in asthma as a new therapeutic tool and compare those with immunotherapy.

Lung Tissue Damage Associated with Allergic Asthma in BALB/c Mice Could Be Controlled with a Single Injection of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Human Bone Marrow up to 14 d After Transplantation

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) research has demonstrated the potential of these cells to modulate lung inflammatory processes and tissue repair; however, the underlying mechanisms and treatment durability remain unknown. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of human bone marrow-derived MSCs in the inflammatory process and pulmonary remodeling of asthmatic BALB/c mice up to 14 d after transplantation. Our study used ovalbumin to induce allergic asthma in male BALB/c mice. MSCs were injected intratracheally in the asthma groups. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected, and cytology was performed to measure the total protein, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and proinflammatory (IL-5, IL-13, and IL-17A) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) interleukin (IL) levels. The lungs were removed for the histopathological evaluation. On day zero, the eosinophil and lymphochte percentages, total protein concentrations, and IL-13 and IL-17A levels in the BALF were significantly increased in the asthma group, proving the efficacy of the experimental model of allergic asthma. On day 7, the MSC-treated group exhibited significant reductions in the eosinophil, lymphocyte, total protein, H2O2, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-17A levels in the BALF, while the IL-10 levels were significantly increased. On day 14, the total cell numbers and lymphocyte, total protein, IL-13, and IL-17A levels in the BALF in the MSC-treated group were significantly decreased. A significant decrease in airway remodeling was observed on days 7 and 14 in almost all bronchioles, which showed reduced inflammatory infiltration, collagen deposition, muscle and epithelial thickening, and mucus production. These results demonstrate that treatment with a single injection of MSCs reduces the pathophysiological events occurring in an experimental model of allergic asthma by controlling the inflammatory process up to 14 d after transplantation.

Mesenchymal stem cells in allergic diseases: Current status

Allergic diseases, which include asthma, allergic skin diseases, allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis, have already garnered worldwide public health attention over recent decades. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have gradually emerged as a potential method for treating allergic diseases due to their immunosuppressive characteristics, tissue repair ability and secretion of various biological factors. This potential of MSC-based therapy has been confirmed in clinical and preclinical studies, which report the therapeutic benefits of MSCs for various allergic diseases and explore the antiallergic mechanisms. In this review, we focus on the discoveries and biological mechanisms of MSCs as a therapeutic tool in allergic diseases. We discuss the challenges of conducting MSC studies as well as future directions.

Effect of mesenchymal stromal (stem) cell (MSC) transplantation in asthmatic animal models: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Over the years, mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (MSCs) have been pre-clinically applied in the treatment of variety kinds of diseases including asthma and chronic lung diseases. Aim of the current study was to systematically review and to conduct meta-analysis on the published studies of MSC treatment in asthma animal models.

METHODS

Publications on the MSC and asthma treatment was thoroughly searched in the electronic databases. Statistical analysis was then performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (Version 3). Effect of MSC therapy on asthma model was assessed by Hedges's g with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Random effect model was used due to the heterogeneity between the studies.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis of the 32 included studies showed that MSC transplantation was significantly in favor of attenuating lung injury and remodeling (Hedges's g = -9.104 ± 0.951 with 95% CI: -10.969 ∼ -7.240, P < 0.001) and airway inflammation (Hedges's g = -4.146 ± 0.688 with 95% CI: -5.495 ∼ -2.797, P < 0.001). The mechanism of MSC therapy in asthma seems to be regulating the balance of Th1 cytokine and Th2 cytokines (IFN-γ: Hedges's g = 4.779 ± 1.408 with 95% CI: 1.099-2.725, P < 0.001; IL-4: Hedges's g = -10.781 ± 1.062 with 95% CI: -12.863 ∼ -8.699, P < 0.001; IL-5: Hedges's g = -10.537 ± 1.269 with 95% CI: -13.025 ∼ -8.050, P < 0.001; IL-13: Hedges's g = -6.773 ± 0.788 with 95% CI: -8.318 ∼ -5.229, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Findings of the current systemic review suggested a potential role for MSCs in asthma treatment although it is still challenging in clinical practice. The mechanisms of MSCs in pre-clinical asthma treatment may be associated with attenuating airway inflammation through regulating Th1 and Th2 cytokines.

Ras homolog family member A/Rho-associated protein kinase 1 signaling modulates lineage commitment of mesenchymal stem cells in asthmatic patients through lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1

BACKGROUND

Numbers of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are increased in the airways after allergen challenge. Ras homolog family member A (RhoA)/Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK) signaling is critical in determining the lineage fate of MSCs in tissue repair/remodeling.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to investigate the role of RhoA/ROCK signaling in lineage commitment of MSCs during allergen-induced airway remodeling and delineate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Active RhoA expression in lung tissues of asthmatic patients and its role in cockroach allergen-induced airway inflammation and remodeling were investigated. RhoA/ROCK signaling-mediated MSC lineage commitment was assessed in an asthma mouse model by using MSC lineage tracing mice (nestin-Cre; ROSA26-EYFP). The role of RhoA/ROCK in MSC lineage commitment was also examined by using MSCs expressing constitutively active RhoA (RhoA-L63) or dominant negative RhoA (RhoA-N19). Downstream RhoA-regulated genes were identified by using the Stem Cell Signaling Array.

RESULTS

Lung tissues from asthmatic mice showed increased expression of active RhoA when compared with those from control mice. Inhibition of RhoA/ROCK signaling with fasudil, a RhoA/ROCK inhibitor, reversed established cockroach allergen-induced airway inflammation and remodeling, as assessed based on greater collagen deposition/fibrosis. Furthermore, fasudil inhibited MSC differentiation into fibroblasts/myofibroblasts but promoted MSC differentiation into epithelial cells in asthmatic nestin-Cre; ROSA26-EYFP mice. Consistently, expression of RhoA-L63 facilitated differentiation of MSCs into fibroblasts/myofibroblasts, whereas expression of RhoA-19 switched the differentiation toward epithelial cells. The gene array identified the Wnt signaling effector lymphoid enhancer-binding factor 1 (Lef1) as the most upregulated gene in RhoA-L63-transfected MSCs. Knockdown of Lef1 induced MSC differentiation away from fibroblasts/myofibroblasts but toward epithelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings uncover a previously unrecognized role of RhoA/ROCK signaling in MSC-involved airway repair/remodeling in the setting of asthma.

Effects of mesenchymal stromal cells play a role the oxidant/antioxidant balance in a murine model of asthma

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterised by chronic airway inflammation. One of the most devastating consequences of this inflammatory process is the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species responsible for oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to analyse the efficiency of treatment with human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSC) in maintaining the oxidative balance in a murine model of allergic asthma by quantifying nitrotyrosine in lung tissues. After confirmation of asthma in the experimental model, samples of lung parenchyma were submitted to immunohistochemical assessment. Intravenous administration of hMSC reduced the levels of nitrotyrosine in the ASTHMA-hMSC group compared to those in the ASTHMA-SAL group. In conclusion, therapeutic administration of hMSC had a beneficial effect on oxidative stress, reducing the levels of nitrotyrosine in lung tissues in a model of allergic asthma.

The genes involved in asthma with the treatment of human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

Asthma is affecting more than 300 million people worldwide, which represents the most common chronic disease among children. We previously found that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) modulated the immune response on Th2-mediated asthma in vivo and in vitro. This study further evaluated the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) on asthma.

METHODS

Multipotent hESC-MSCs were obtained using a feeder-free method. The hESC-MSCs were analysed for the expression of stem cell surface markers by flow cytometry, their differentiation potentials were analysed using in vitro trilineage differentiation methods hESC-MSCs were transplanted into the murine model with ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway allergic inflammation. The expression levels of allergic related genes were measured by the mRNA PCR arrays.

RESULTS

The hESC-MSCs expressed classical MSC markers and held the capability of differentiation into multiple mesoderm-type cell lineages. hESC-MSCs were able to suppress allergic inflammation by modulating Th2 cells and eosinophils in the mice, and reversed the reduction of regulatory T cells. By using PCR array, 5 mRNAs- chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 11 (Ccl11), Ccl24, interleukin13 (Il13), Il33 and eosinophil-associated, ribonuclease A family, member 11 (Ear11) were identified the most relevant in murine airway allergic inflammation and hESC-MSCs treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic effects of hESC-MSCs were identified in the murine model of airway allergic inflammation with key mRNAs involved. This study will provide a better understanding regarding the mechanisms underlying hESC-MSCs therapeutic application in airway allergic inflammation.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Recruit CCR2+ Monocytes To Suppress Allergic Airway Inflammation

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) exert immune modulatory properties and previous studies demonstrated suppressive effects of MSC treatment in animal models of allergic airway inflammation. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. We studied the role of MSC in immune activation and subsequent recruitment of monocytes in suppressing airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation using a mouse model of allergic airway inflammation. MSC administration prior to or after allergen challenge inhibited the development of airway inflammation in allergen-sensitized mice. This was accompanied by an influx of CCR2-positive monocytes, which were localized around injected MSC in the lungs. Notably, IL-10-producing monocytes and/or macrophages were also increased in the lungs. Systemic administration of liposomal clodronate or a CCR2 antagonist significantly prevented the suppressive effects of MSC. Activation of MSC by IFN-γ leading to the upregulation of CCL2 expression was essential for the suppressive effects, as administration of wild-type MSC into IFN-γ-deficient recipients, or IFN-γ receptor-deficient or CCL2-deficient MSC into wild-type mice failed to suppress airway inflammation. These results suggest that MSC activation by IFN-γ, followed by increased expression of CCL2 and recruitment of monocytes to the lungs, is essential for suppression by MSC in allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation.

Mesenchymal stem cell exosomes promote immunosuppression of regulatory T cells in asthma

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) are both potent immune-modulators. The aberrant proliferation and function of Tregs plays an important role in the development of asthma. Our previous studies have demonstrated the role of MSCs in promoting proliferation and immune-modulating of Tregs, as well as alleviating airway inflammation of asthmatic mice. In the present study, we isolated exosomes secreted by MSCs and investigated their immunomodulation effect on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of asthmatic patient. We found that MSC exosomes upregulated IL-10 and TGF-β1 from PBMCs, thus promoting proliferation and immune-suppression capacity of Tregs. Furthermore, antigen presenting cells (APCs) but not CD4+ T cells-dependent pathway was shown to be possible mechanism involved in MSC exosome-mediated regulation. Our data elucidated the key role of exosomes in immune-modulation of MSCs, and suggested the therapeutic potential of MSC exosomes for asthma.

Placenta‑derived mesenchymal stem cells improve airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation in asthmatic rats by modulating the Th17/Treg balance

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess reparative and immunoregulatory properties, representing a hope for stem cell-based treatments. However, the mechanisms by which transplanted MSCs affect T helper (Th)17/regulatory T cell (Treg) balance in asthma patients remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to assess the therapeutic effects of human placenta MSCs (hPMSCs) in asthma, and explore the underlying mechanisms; in addition, the impact of hPMSCs transplantation on Th17/Treg balance in lymph and serum samples from asthmatic animals was evaluated. Sprague-Dawley rats were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA). Administration of hPMSCs from human placenta resulted in increased Th17 and Treg in lymph samples compared with peripheral blood specimens. Enhanced pause values in OVA-treated animals were significantly higher than those in the control and hPMSCs treatment groups. The numbers of total cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils were markedly increased in the OVA group compared with those of control + hPMSCs and control groups. In addition, interleukin 10, forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) and Treg levels in lymph, peripheral blood and lung tissue samples from asthma rats were increased significantly following hPMSC transplantation. Furthermore, Foxp3 protein levels increased, while those of RAR-related orphan receptor γ (RORγt) decreased after hPMSCs transplantation compared with the asthma group. Reduced IL-17, RORγt and Th17 levels were accompanied by reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, sub-epithelial smooth layer attenuation and mucus production in lung tissues. These results suggest that hPMSCs may improve airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation by regulating the Th17/Treg balance in rats with asthma.

Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for laryngotracheal stenosis: A systematic review of preclinical studies

Background

Laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) can be either congenital or acquired. Laryngeal stenosis is most often encountered after prolonged intubation. The mechanism for stenosis following intubation is believed to be hypertrophic scarring. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy has shown promising results in regenerative medicine. We aimed to systematically review the literature on MSC therapy for stenosis of the conductive airways.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched from January 1980–January 2017 with the purpose of identifying all studies addressing the effect of MSC therapy on the airway. We assessed effect on inflammation, fibrosis, and MSC as a component in tissue engineering for treating defects in the airway.

Results

We identified eleven studies (n = 256 animals) from eight countries evaluating the effect of MSCs as a regenerative therapy in the upper airways. The studies indicate that MSC therapy may lead to a more constructive inflammatory response as well as support tissue regeneration.

Conclusion

There may be a favorable effect of MSCs in inhibiting inflammation and as a component in tissue engineering. Given the heterogeneous nature of the included animal studies, any clear conclusion regarding the effect of tracheal stenosis in human subjects cannot be drawn. The included preclinical studies are however encouraging for further research.

Chronic asthma and Mesenchymal stem cells: Hyaluronan and airway remodeling

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that ovalbumin sensitization promotes chronic asthma phenotype in murine asthma model. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are multipotent cells in vitro that have been shown to decrease inflammation and can reverse airway remodeling when infused into an in vivo chronic asthma model. However, the mechanism by which hMSCs reverse remodeling is still unclear. In this study, we hypothesized that hMSCs influence remodeling by decreasing extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, more specifically by decreasing collagen I, collagen III, and hyaluronan synthesis.

METHODS

Chronic asthma phenotype was produced in an in vitro model with 3 T3 murine airway fibroblast cells by stimulating with GM-CSF. Collagen I and collagen III gene expression was investigated using RT-PCR and Taqman techniques. Hyaluronan was evaluated using FACE and Western Blots. The chronic asthma phenotype was produced in vivo in murine model using sensitization with ovalbumin with and without hMSC infusion therapy. ECM deposition (specifically trichrome staining, soluble and insoluble collagen deposition, and hyaluronan production) was evaluated. Image quantification was used to monitor trichrome staining changes.

RESULTS

GM-CSF which induced collagen I and collagen III production was down-regulated with hMSC using co-culture. In the in vivo model, Ovalbumin induced enhanced ECM deposition, soluble and insoluble collagen production, and lung elastance. hMSC infusions decreased ECM deposition as evidenced by decreases in soluble and insoluble collagen production.

CONCLUSION

hMSCs participate in improved outcomes of remodeling by reversing excess collagen deposition and changing hyaluronan levels.

The effects of chrysophanol on ovalbumin (OVA)-induced chronic lung toxicology by inhibiting Th17 response

Chrysophanol (CH), extracted from plants of Rheum genus, possesses various pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the protective effects and the underlying mechanisms of CH on ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma in mice. Fifty mice were randomly assigned to five experimental groups: control group, model group, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) group and CH (5 and 10 mg/kg) groups. The number of eosinophil cells and the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, IL-17 A and tumor necrosis factor-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were measured. In addition, pulmonary histopathology, airway resistance (Raw), T-helper17 (Th17) cells frequency and RORγt expression were evaluated. Our study demonstrated that CH effectively decreased eosinophil count and inflammatory cytokines production in BALF. In addition, treatment with CH significantly inhibited the Raw, Th17 percentage and RORγt expression in OVA-induced animals compared with those in model group. Histological studies also demonstrated that CH significantly suppressed OVA-induced eosinophilia in lung tissue compared with model group. Our findings supported that CH can prevent allergic asthma in the mouse model.

Intranasal administration of mesenchymoangioblast-derived mesenchymal stem cells abrogates airway fibrosis and airway hyperresponsiveness associated with chronic allergic airways disease

Structural changes known as airway remodeling (AWR) characterize chronic/severe asthma and contribute to lung dysfunction. Thus, we assessed the in vivo efficacy of induced pluripotent stem cell and mesenchymoangioblast-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MCA-MSCs) on AWR in a murine model of chronic allergic airways disease (AAD)/asthma. Female Balb/c mice were subjected to a 9-wk model of ovalbumin (Ova)-induced chronic AAD and treated intravenously or intranasally with MCA-MSCs from weeks 9 to 11. Changes in airway inflammation (AI), AWR, and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) were assessed. Ova-injured mice presented with AI, goblet cell metaplasia, epithelial thickening, increased airway TGF-β1 levels, subepithelial myofibroblast and collagen accumulation, total lung collagen concentration, and AHR (all P < 0.001 vs. uninjured control group). Apart from epithelial thickness, all other parameters measured were significantly, although not totally, decreased by intravenous delivery of MCA-MSCs to Ova-injured mice. In comparison, intranasal delivery of MCA-MSCs to Ova-injured mice significantly decreased all parameters measured (all P < 0.05 vs. Ova group) and, most notably, normalized aberrant airway TGF-β1 levels, airway/lung fibrosis, and AHR to values measured in uninjured animals. MCA-MSCs also increased collagen-degrading gelatinase levels. Hence, direct delivery of MCA-MSCs offers great therapeutic benefit for the AWR and AHR associated with chronic AAD.-Royce, S. G., Rele, S., Broughton, B. R. S., Kelly, K., Samuel, C. S. Intranasal administration of mesenchymoangioblast-derived mesenchymal stem cells abrogates airway fibrosis and airway hyperresponsiveness associated with chronic allergic airways disease.

Anti-fibrotic actions of relaxin

Fibrosis refers to the hardening or scarring of tissues that usually results from aberrant wound healing in response to organ injury, and its manifestations in various organs have collectively been estimated to contribute to around 45-50% of deaths in the Western world. Despite this, there is currently no effective cure for the tissue structural and functional damage induced by fibrosis-related disorders. Relaxin meets several criteria of an effective anti-fibrotic based on its specific ability to inhibit pro-fibrotic cytokine and/or growth factor-mediated, but not normal/unstimulated, fibroblast proliferation, differentiation and matrix production. Furthermore, relaxin augments matrix degradation through its ability to up-regulate the release and activation of various matrix-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and/or being able to down-regulate tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase activity. Relaxin can also indirectly suppress fibrosis through its other well-known (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-hypertrophic, anti-apoptotic, angiogenic, wound healing and vasodilator) properties. This review will outline the organ-specific and general anti-fibrotic significance of exogenously administered relaxin and its mechanisms of action that have been documented in various non-reproductive organs such as the cardiovascular system, kidney, lung, liver, skin and tendons. In addition, it will outline the influence of sex on relaxin's anti-fibrotic actions, highlighting its potential as an emerging anti-fibrotic therapeutic.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.

Immunomodulatory oligonucleotide IMT504: Effects on mesenchymal stem cells as a first-in-class immunoprotective/immunoregenerative therapy

The immune responses of humans and animals to insults (i.e., infections, traumas, tumoral transformation and radiation) are based on an intricate network of cells and chemical messengers. Abnormally high inflammation immediately after insult or abnormally prolonged pro-inflammatory stimuli bringing about chronic inflammation can lead to life-threatening or severely debilitating diseases. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplant has proved to be an effective therapy in preclinical studies which evaluated a vast diversity of inflammatory conditions. MSCs lead to resolution of inflammation, preparation for regeneration and actual regeneration, and then ultimate return to normal baseline or homeostasis. However, in clinical trials of transplanted MSCs, the expectations of great medical benefit have not yet been fulfilled. As a practical alternative to MSC transplant, a synthetic drug with the capacity to boost endogenous MSC expansion and/or activation may also be effective. Regarding this, IMT504, the prototype of a major class of immunomodulatory oligonucleotides, induces in vivo expansion of MSCs, resulting in a marked improvement in preclinical models of neuropathic pain, osteoporosis, diabetes and sepsis. IMT504 is easily manufactured and has an excellent preclinical safety record. In the small number of patients studied thus far, IMT504 has been well-tolerated, even at very high dosage. Further clinical investigation is necessary to demonstrate the utility of IMT504 for resolution of inflammation and regeneration in a broad array of human diseases that would likely benefit from an immunoprotective/immunoregenerative therapy.

Comparison of TGF-β1 and NO production by mesenchymal stem cells isolated from murine lung and adipose tissues

CONTEXT

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cell sources for tissues regeneration. By secretion of soluble factors including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1) and nitric oxide (NO), MSCs are also able to regulate the immune system. MSCs have been disclosed in lung and adipose tissues with insufficient comparison between the tissues.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, specific differentiation and the expression of surface antigens as well as TGF-β1 and NO productive levels were compared in murine lung-derived MSCs (LMSCs) and adipose tissue-derived MSCs (ADMSCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MSCs were isolated from murine lung and adipose tissues and cultured. Both cell populations were characterized using multilineage potential and the expression of surface antigenic proteins, CD73, CD105, CD34, CD45, and CD11b. Finally, levels of TGF-β1 and NO were evaluated and compared in ADMSCs and LMSCs.

RESULTS

Expression of CD73 and CD105; lack of the expression of CD34, CD45, and CD11b markers; as well as adipocyte and osteocyte differentiations were detected in both adult stem cells. No significant difference was found in TGF-β1 and NO production between two stem cell populations.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that LMSCs and ADMSCs have comparable phenotype and TGF-β1 and NO production.

Dental follicle mesenchymal stem cell administration ameliorates muscle weakness in MuSK-immunized mice

Background

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an antibody-mediated autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), mostly associated with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies. Around 5–10 % of MG patients show antibodies to muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK). Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) administration has been shown to ameliorate muscle weakness in the experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) model induced by AChR immunization.

Methods

To investigate the efficacy of stem cell treatment in MuSK-related EAMG, clinical and immunological features of MuSK-immunized mice with or without dental follicle MSC (DFMSC) treatment were compared.

Results

MuSK-immunized mice intravenously treated with DFMSC after second and third immunizations showed significantly lower EAMG incidence and severity and reduced serum anti-MuSK antibody, NMJ IgG, and C3 deposit levels and CD11b+ lymph node cell ratios. Moreover, lymph node cells of DFMSC-administered mice showed reduced proliferation and IL-6 and IL-12 production responses to MuSK stimulation. By contrast, proportions of B and T cell populations and production of a wide variety of cytokines were not affected from DFMSC treatment.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that DFMSC treatment shows its beneficial effects mostly through suppression of innate immune system, whereas other immune functions appear to be preserved. Stem cell treatment might thus constitute a specific and effective treatment method in MuSK-associated MG.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-015-0451-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Stem cells in animal asthma models: a systematic review

BACKGROUND AIMS

Asthma control frequently falls short of the goals set in international guidelines. Treatment options for patients with poorly controlled asthma despite inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β-agonists are limited, and new therapeutic options are needed. Stem cell therapy is promising for a variety of disorders but there has been no human clinical trial of stem cell therapy for asthma. We aimed to systematically review the literature regarding the potential benefits of stem cell therapy in animal models of asthma to determine whether a human trial is warranted.

METHODS

The MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for original studies of stem cell therapy in animal asthma models.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies were selected. They were found to be heterogeneous in their design. Mesenchymal stromal cells were used before sensitization with an allergen, before challenge with the allergen and after challenge, most frequently with ovalbumin, and mainly in BALB/c mice. Stem cell therapy resulted in a reduction of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid inflammation and eosinophilia as well as Th2 cytokines such as interleukin-4 and interleukin-5. Improvement in histopathology such as peribronchial and perivascular inflammation, epithelial thickness, goblet cell hyperplasia and smooth muscle layer thickening was universal. Several studies showed a reduction in airway hyper-responsiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Stem cell therapy decreases eosinophilic and Th2 inflammation and is effective in several phases of the allergic response in animal asthma models. Further study is warranted, up to human clinical trials.

Effects of bone marrow mononuclear cells from healthy or ovalbumin-induced lung inflammation donors on recipient allergic asthma mice

Introduction

Asthma is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process which may lead to several changes in bone marrow cell composition. We hypothesized that bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) obtained from ovalbumin (OVA)-induced lung inflammation mice may promote different effects compared to BMMCs from healthy donors in a model of allergic asthma.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to two groups. In the OVA group, mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin, while healthy animals (control group) received saline using the same protocol. BMMCs were analyzed by flow cytometry 24 hours after the last challenge. After BMMC characterization, another group of OVA mice were further randomized into three subgroups to receive intratracheal saline (BMMC-SAL), BMMCs from control or BMMCs from OVA mice (BMMC-Control and BMMC-OVA, respectively; 2x10⁶ cells/mouse), 24 hours after the last challenge.

Results

BMMC-OVA exhibited an increased percentage of eosinophils, monocytes and hematopoietic precursors, while mesenchymal stem cells decreased, as compared with BMMC-Control. BMMCs from both donor groups reduced airway resistance, alveolar collapse, bronchoconstriction index, eosinophil infiltration, collagen fiber content in alveolar septa and levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, interferon-γ, transforming growth factor-β, and vascular endothelial growth factor in lung homogenates. However, the benefits of BMMCs were significantly more pronounced when cells were obtained from control donors.

Conclusion

Both BMMC-Control and BMMC-OVA reduced the inflammatory and remodeling processes; nevertheless, BMMC-Control led to a greater improvement in lung morphofunction, which may be due to different BMMC composition and/or properties.

Allogeneic pluripotent stem cells suppress airway inflammation in murine model of acute asthma

New strategies are needed to suppress airway inflammation and prevent or reverse airway remodeling in asthma. Reprogramming induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have the potential of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and provide a resource for stem cell-based utility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the histopathological and immunomodulatory effects of ESCs and iPSCs for potential allogenic application in a murine model of acute asthma. BALB/c mice were sensitized with alum-absorbed ovalbumin (OVA) and then challenged with 1% aerosolized OVA. 5×10(5) ESCs and iPSCs were administrated intranasally on the last day of nebulization. Mice were sacrificed after 24 h, and serum allergen specific antibody level, airway remodeling, cytokine levels in lung supernatants, and eosinophilic infiltration in BAL fluid were examined. As a result, more ESCs and iPSCs integrated into the lungs of mice in OVA groups than those of the controls. Epithelial, smooth muscle and basal membrane thicknesses as well as goblet cell hyperplasia occurring in airway remodeling were significantly suppressed by pluripotent stem cells in both distal and proximal airways. Percentage of eosinophils decreased significantly in BAL fluid as well as serum allergen-specific IgE and IL-4 levels in lung supernatants. On the contrary, regulatory cytokine - IL-10 level - was enhanced. Application of especially ESCs significantly increased the percentage of Treg subsets. Our comparative results showed that i.n. delivery of miRNA-based reprogrammed iPSCs is beneficial in attenuating airway inflammation in a murine model of acute asthma, and that cells also have similar immunomodulatory effects in mice.