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Shi K, Liang C, Huang X, Wang S, Chen J, Cheng F, Wang C, Ying L, Pan Z, Zhang Y, Shu J, Yang B, Wang J, Xia K, Zhou X, Li H, Li F, Tao Y, Chen Q. Collagen Niches Affect Direct Transcriptional Conversion toward Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells via Actomyosin Contractility. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2201824. [PMID: 36165230 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cellular niches play fundamental roles in regulating cellular behaviors. However, the effect of niches on direct converted cells remains unexplored. In the present study, the specific combination of transcription factors is first identified to directly acquire induced nucleus pulposus-like cells (iNPLCs). Next, tunable physical properties of collagen niches are fabricated based on various crosslinking degrees. Collagen niches significantly affect actomyosin cytoskeleton and then influence the maturation of iNPLCs. Using gain- and loss of function approaches, the appropriate physical states of collagen niches are found to significantly enhance the maturation of iNPLCs through actomyosin contractility. Moreover, in a rat model of degenerative disc diseases, iNPLCs with collagen niches are transplanted into the lesion to achieve significant improvements. As a result, overexpression of transcription factors in human dermal fibroblasts are efficiently converted into iNPLCs and the optimal collagen niches affect cellular cytoskeleton and then facilitate iNPLCs maturation toward human nucleus pulposus cells. These findings encourage more in-depth studies toward the interactions of niches and direct conversion, which would contribute to the development of direct conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesi Shi
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Chengzhen Liang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Xianpeng Huang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Shaoke Wang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Jiangjie Chen
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Feng Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Chenggui Wang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, P. R. China
| | - Liwei Ying
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Taizhou Hospital Affiliated of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, Zhejiang Province, 317000, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoqi Pan
- The School of Ophthalmology & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, P. R. China
| | - Yuang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Jiawei Shu
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Biao Yang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Jingkai Wang
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Kaishun Xia
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Fangcai Li
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Yiqing Tao
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
| | - Qixin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Clinical Research Center of Motor System Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310000, P. R. China
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Ligorio C, Hoyland JA, Saiani A. Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels as Functional Tools to Tackle Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Gels 2022; 8:gels8040211. [PMID: 35448112 PMCID: PMC9028266 DOI: 10.3390/gels8040211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, is a major contributor to global disability. In its healthy state, the IVD is a tough and well-hydrated tissue, able to act as a shock absorber along the spine. During degeneration, the IVD is hit by a cell-driven cascade of events, which progressively lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, chronic inflammation, and pain. Current treatments are divided into palliative care (early stage degeneration) and surgical interventions (late-stage degeneration), which are invasive and poorly efficient in the long term. To overcome these limitations, alternative tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies, in which soft biomaterials are used as injectable carriers of cells and/or biomolecules to be delivered to the injury site and restore tissue function, are currently being explored. Self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs) represent a promising class of de novo synthetic biomaterials able to merge the strengths of both natural and synthetic hydrogels for biomedical applications. Inherent features, such as shear-thinning behaviour, high biocompatibility, ECM biomimicry, and tuneable physiochemical properties make these hydrogels appropriate and functional tools to tackle IVD degeneration. This review will describe the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration, list biomaterials requirements to attempt IVD repair, and focus on current peptide hydrogel materials exploited for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosimo Ligorio
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
| | - Alberto Saiani
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
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Malekpour K, Hazrati A, Zahar M, Markov A, Zekiy AO, Navashenaq JG, Roshangar L, Ahmadi M. The Potential Use of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Derived Exosomes for Orthopedic Diseases Treatment. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:933-951. [PMID: 34169411 PMCID: PMC8224994 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10185-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that can affect muscles, bones, and joints. These disorders are very painful and severely limit patients' mobility and are more common in the elderly. MSCs are multipotent stem cells isolated from embryonic (such as the umbilical cord) and mature sources (such as adipose tissue and bone marrow). These cells can differentiate into various cells such as osteoblasts, adipocytes, chondrocytes, NP-like cells, Etc. Due to MSC characteristics such as immunomodulatory properties, ability to migrate to the site of injury, recruitment of cells involved in repair, production of growth factors, and large amount production of extracellular vesicles, these cells have been used in many regenerative-related medicine studies. Also, MSCs produce different types of EVs, such as exosomes, to the extracellular environment. Exosomes reflect MSCs' characteristics and do not have cell therapy-associated problems because they are cell-free. These vesicles carry proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids to the host cell and change their function. This review focuses on MSCs and MSCs exosomes' role in repairing dense connective tissues such as tendons, cartilage, invertebrate disc, bone fracture, and osteoporosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosar Malekpour
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Hazrati
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziah Zahar
- Social Security Centre of Excellence, School of Business Management, College of Business, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok Kedah, Malaysia
| | | | - Angelina Olegovna Zekiy
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Leila Roshangar
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Ahmadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Yang X, Chen Z, Chen C, Han C, Zhou Y, Li X, Tian H, Cheng X, Zhang K, Qin A, Zhou T, Zhao J. Bleomycin induces fibrotic transformation of bone marrow stromal cells to treat height loss of intervertebral disc through the TGFβR1/Smad2/3 pathway. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:34. [PMID: 33413668 PMCID: PMC7791639 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lower back pain is often accredited to loss of intervertebral disc (IVD) height and compromised spine stability as a result of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). We aim to locally use bleomycin to induce the fibrotic transformation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) as a means to induce reparative fibrosis to slow down the height loss. Methods IVDs from patients were gathered for histological examination. The expression of the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β) signaling pathway was determined by qPCR and western blotting. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, annulus fibrosus (AF) cells, and the rats’ bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) were cultured and their responsiveness to bleomycin was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8, comet assay, transwell migration, and wound healing assays. Rat IVDD models were created by puncture and rescued by bleomycin injection, and the effectiveness was evaluated by images (X-ray and MRI) and atomic force microscope. Results Histological examination showed increased levels of pro-fibrotic markers in IVDD tissues from patients. AF cells and BMSC cells were induced to adopt a pro-fibrotic phenotype with increased expression fibrotic markers Col1a1, Col3a1, and FSP1. The pro-fibrotic effect of bleomycin on AF cells and BMSCs was in part due to the activation of the TGFβ-TGFβR1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. Pharmacological inhibition or gene knock-down of TGFβR1 could mitigate the pro-fibrotic effects. Conclusion Locally, injection of bleomycin in rats’ IVD induced rapid fibrosis and maintained its height through the TGFβ-TGFβR1-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqian Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Han
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifan Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xunlin Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Haijun Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Cheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - An Qin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tangjun Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jie Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopedics, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
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Panebianco C, Meyers J, Gansau J, Hom W, Iatridis J. Balancing biological and biomechanical performance in intervertebral disc repair: a systematic review of injectable cell delivery biomaterials. Eur Cell Mater 2020; 40:239-258. [PMID: 33206993 PMCID: PMC7706585 DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v040a15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Discogenic back pain is a common condition without approved intervertebral disc (IVD) repair therapies. Cell delivery using injectable biomaterial carriers offers promise to restore disc height and biomechanical function, while providing a functional niche for delivered cells to repair degenerated tissues. This systematic review advances the injectable IVD cell delivery biomaterials field by characterising its current state and identifying themes of promising strategies. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to screen the literature and 183 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria. Cellular and biomaterial inputs, and biological and biomechanical outcomes were extracted from each study. Most identified studies targeted nucleus pulposus (NP) repair. No consensus exists on cell type or biomaterial carrier, yet most common strategies used mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) delivery with interpenetrating network/co-polymeric (IPN/CoP) biomaterials composed of natural biomaterials. All studies reported biological outcomes with about half the studies reporting biomechanical outcomes. Since the IVD is a load-bearing tissue, studies reporting compressive and shear moduli were analysed and two major themes were found. First, a competitive balance, or 'seesaw' effect, between biomechanical and biological performance was observed. Formulations with higher moduli had inferior cellular performance, and vice versa. Second, several low-modulus biomaterials had favourable biological performance and matured throughout culture duration with enhanced extracellular matrix synthesis and biomechanical moduli. Findings identify an opportunity to develop next-generation biomaterials that provide high initial biomechanical competence to stabilise and repair damaged IVDs with a capacity to promote cell function for long-term healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - J.C. Iatridis
- Address for correspondence: James C. Iatridis, Ph.D., One Gustave Levy Place, Box 1188, Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA. Telephone number: +1 2122411517
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Effect of Compression Loading on Human Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2018; 2018:1481243. [PMID: 30402107 PMCID: PMC6196892 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1481243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Mechanical loading plays a vital role in the progression of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, but little is known about the effect of compression loading on human nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NP-MSCs). Thus, this study is aimed at investigating the effect of compression on the biological behavior of NP-MSCs in vitro. Methods Human NP-MSCs were isolated from patients undergoing lumbar discectomy for IVD degeneration and were identified by immunophenotypes and multilineage differentiation. Then, cells were cultured in the compression apparatus at 1.0 MPa for different times (0 h, 24 h, 36 h, and 48 h). The viability-, differentiation-, and differentiation-related genes (Runx2, APP, and Col2) and colony formation-, migration-, and stem cell-related proteins (Sox2 and Oct4) were evaluated. Results The results showed that the isolated cells fulfilled the criteria of MSC stated by the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT). And our results also indicated that compression loading significantly inhibited cell viability, differentiation, colony formation, and migration. Furthermore, gene expression suggested that compression loading could downregulate the expression of stem cell-related proteins and lead to NP-MSC stemness losses. Conclusions Our results suggested that the biological behavior of NP-MSCs could be inhibited by compression loading and therefore enhanced our understanding on the compression-induced endogenous repair failure of NP-MSCs during IVDD.
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Tang R, Jing L, Willard VP, Wu CL, Guilak F, Chen J, Setton LA. Differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into nucleus pulposus-like cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2018. [PMID: 29523190 PMCID: PMC5845143 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-0797-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is characterized by an early decrease in cellularity of the nucleus pulposus (NP) region, and associated extracellular matrix changes, reduced hydration, and progressive degeneration. Cell-based IVD therapy has emerged as an area of great interest, with studies reporting regenerative potential for many cell sources, including autologous or allogeneic chondrocytes, primary IVD cells, and stem cells. Few approaches, however, have clear strategies to promote the NP phenotype, in part due to a limited knowledge of the defined markers and differentiation protocols for this lineage. Here, we developed a new protocol for the efficient differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into NP-like cells in vitro. This differentiation strategy derives from our knowledge of the embryonic notochordal lineage of NP cells as well as strategies used to support healthy NP cell phenotypes for primary cells in vitro. Methods An NP-genic phenotype of hiPSCs was promoted in undifferentiated hiPSCs using a stepwise, directed differentiation toward mesodermal, and subsequently notochordal, lineages via chemically defined medium and growth factor supplementation. Fluorescent cell imaging was used to test for pluripotency markers in undifferentiated cells. RT-PCR was used to test for potential cell lineages at the early stage of differentiation. Cells were checked for NP differentiation using immunohistochemistry and histological staining at the end of differentiation. To enrich notochordal progenitor cells, hiPSCs were transduced using lentivirus containing reporter constructs for transcription factor brachyury (T) promoter and green fluorescent protein (GFP) fluorescence, and then sorted on T expression based on GFP intensity by flow cytometry. Results Periods of pellet culture following initial induction were shown to promote the vacuolated NP cell morphology and NP surface marker expression, including CD24, LMα5, and Basp1. Enrichment of brachyury (T) positive cells using fluorescence-activated cell sorting was shown to further enhance the differentiation efficiency of NP-like cells. Conclusions The ability to efficiently differentiate human iPSCs toward NP-like cells may provide insights into the processes of NP cell differentiation and provide a cell source for the development of new therapies for IVD diseases. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-018-0797-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhang Tang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Liufang Jing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | | | - Chia-Lung Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Farshid Guilak
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.,Cytex Therapeutics, Inc., Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lori A Setton
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Centeno C, Markle J, Dodson E, Stemper I, Williams CJ, Hyzy M, Ichim T, Freeman M. Treatment of lumbar degenerative disc disease-associated radicular pain with culture-expanded autologous mesenchymal stem cells: a pilot study on safety and efficacy. J Transl Med 2017; 15:197. [PMID: 28938891 PMCID: PMC5610473 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1300-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common cause of lower back pain with radicular symptoms and has a significant socioeconomic impact given the associated disability. Limited effective conservative therapeutic options result in many turning to surgical alternatives for management, which vary in the rate of success and also carry an increased risk of morbidity and mortality associated with the procedures. Several animal based studies and a few human pilot studies have demonstrated safety and suggest efficacy in the treatment of DDD with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The use of bone marrow-derived MSCs for the treatment of DDD is promising and in the present study we report on the safety and efficacy findings from a registry based proof of concept study using a percutaneous intradiscal injection of cultured MSCs for the management of DDD with associated radicular symptoms. Methods Thirty-three patients with lower back pain and disc degeneration with a posterior disc bulge diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) met the inclusion criteria and were treated with culture-expanded, autologous, bone marrow-derived MSCs. Prospective registry data was obtained at multiple time intervals up to 6 years post-treatment. Collected outcomes included numeric pain score (NPS), a modified single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) rating, functional rating index (FRI), measurement of the intervertebral disc posterior dimension, and adverse events. Results Three patients reported pain related to procedure that resolved. There were no serious adverse events (i.e. death, infection, or tumor) associated with the procedure. NPS change scores relative to baseline were significant at 3, 36, 48, 60, and 72 months post-treatment. The average modified SANE ratings showed a mean improvement of 60% at 3 years post-treatment. FRI post-treatment change score averages exceeded the minimal clinically important difference at all time points except 12 months. Twenty of the patients treated underwent post-treatment MRI and 85% had a reduction in disc bulge size, with an average reduction size of 23% post-treatment. Conclusions Patients treated with autologous cultured MSCs for lower back pain with radicular symptoms in the setting of DDD reported minor adverse events and significant improvements in pain, function, and overall subjective improvement through 6 years of follow-up. NCT03011398. A Clinical Registry of Orthobiologics Procedures. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03011398?term=orthobiologics&rank=1
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Centeno
- Centeno-Schultz Clinic, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA.,Regenerative Sciences, LLC, 403 Summit Blvd Suite 201, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA
| | - Jason Markle
- Centeno-Schultz Clinic, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA
| | - Ehren Dodson
- Regenerative Sciences, LLC, 403 Summit Blvd Suite 201, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA.
| | - Ian Stemper
- Regenerative Sciences, LLC, 403 Summit Blvd Suite 201, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA
| | | | - Matthew Hyzy
- Centeno-Schultz Clinic, Broomfield, CO, 80021, USA
| | | | - Michael Freeman
- CAPHRI School of Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Liu S, Liang H, Lee SM, Li Z, Zhang J, Fei Q. Isolation and identification of stem cells from degenerated human intervertebral discs and their migration characteristics. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2017; 49:101-109. [PMID: 28172101 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmw121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been isolated and identified separately from the three components of intervertebral disc, i.e. annulus fibrosus (AF), nucleus pulposus (NP), and cartilage endplate (CEP). However, few studies have been carried out to compare the properties of these three kinds of stem cells, especially their migration ability which is essential for their potential clinical application. In this study, MSCs were isolated from AF, NP, and CEP, respectively, of human degenerated discs and identified by surface markers and multilineage differentiation assay at passage 3. These three types of stem cells were named as AF-MSCs, NP-MSCs, and CEP-MSCs. Then, their biological characteristics were compared in terms of proliferation, passage, colony formation, migration, and invasion capacity. Results showed that all the three types of cells were identified as MSCs and had similar characteristics in proliferation, passage, and colony formation capacity. CEP-MSCs showed the highest migration and invasion potency, while NP-MSCs showed the lowest migration ability and almost no invasion potency, suggesting that CEP-MSCs had the most powerful properties of migration and invasion when compared with AF-MSCs and NP-MSCs. It was also found that the expression of CXCR4 was higher in CEP-MSCs than in the other two, suggesting that SDF-1/CXCR4 axis may play significant roles in the migration of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhao Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Haifeng Liang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Soo-Min Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qinming Fei
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Antunes JC, Pereira CL, Teixeira GQ, Silva RV, Caldeira J, Grad S, Gonçalves RM, Barbosa MA. Poly(γ-glutamic acid) and poly(γ-glutamic acid)-based nanocomplexes enhance type II collagen production in intervertebral disc. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2017; 28:6. [PMID: 27885573 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-016-5787-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration often leads to low back pain, which is one of the major causes of disability worldwide, affecting more than 80% of the population. Although available treatments for degenerated IVD decrease symptoms' progression, they fail to address the underlying causes and to restore native IVD properties. Poly(γ-glutamic acid) (γ-PGA) has recently been shown to support the production of chondrogenic matrix by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. γ-PGA/chitosan (Ch) nanocomplexes (NCs) have been proposed for several biomedical applications, showing advantages compared with either polymer alone. Hence, this study explores the potential of γ-PGA and γ-PGA/Ch NCs for IVD regeneration. Nucleotomised bovine IVDs were cultured ex vivo upon injection of γ-PGA (pH 7.4) and γ-PGA/Ch NCs (pH 5.0 and pH 7.4). Tissue metabolic activity and nucleus pulposus DNA content were significantly reduced when NCs were injected in acidic-buffered solution (pH 5.0). However, at pH 7.4, both γ-PGA and NCs promoted sulphated glycosaminoglycan production and significant type II collagen synthesis, as determined at the protein level. This study is a first proof of concept that γ-PGA and γ-PGA/Ch NCs promote recovery of IVD native matrix, opening new perspectives on the development of alternative therapeutic approaches for IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana C Antunes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias s/n, Porto, 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Catarina Leite Pereira
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Graciosa Q Teixeira
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Ricardo V Silva
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Joana Caldeira
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute, Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos, 7270, Switzerland
| | - Raquel M Gonçalves
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Mário A Barbosa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal.
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal.
- ICBAS-Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-313, Portugal.
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Liu MH, Bian BSJ, Cui X, Liu LT, Liu H, Huang B, Cui YH, Bian XW, Zhou Y. Mesenchymal stem cells regulate mechanical properties of human degenerated nucleus pulposus cells through SDF-1/CXCR4/AKT axis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2016; 1863:1961-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Unique glycosignature for intervertebral disc and articular cartilage cells and tissues in immaturity and maturity. Sci Rep 2016; 6:23062. [PMID: 26965377 PMCID: PMC4786852 DOI: 10.1038/srep23062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, on/off markers for intervertebral disc (IVD) and articular cartilage (AC) cells (chondrocytes) and distinct glycoprofiles of cell and tissue-types were identified from immaturity to maturity. Three and eleven month-old ovine IVD and AC tissues were histochemically profiled with a panel of lectins and antibodies. Relationships between tissue and cell types were analysed by hierarchical clustering. Chondroitin sulfate (CS) composition of annulus fibrosus (AF), nucleus pulposus (NP) and AC tissues was determined by HPLC analysis. Clear on/off cell type markers were identified, which enabled the discrimination of chondrocytes, AF and NP cells. AF and NP cells were distinguishable using MAA, SNA-I, SBA and WFA lectins, which bound to both NP cells and chondrocytes but not AF cells. Chondrocytes were distinguished from NP and AF cells with a specific binding of LTA and PNA lectins to chondrocytes. Each tissue showed a unique CS composition with a distinct switch in sulfation pattern in AF and NP tissues upon disc maturity while cartilage maintained the same sulfation pattern over time. In conclusion, distinct glycoprofiles for cell and tissue-types across age groups were identified in addition to altered CS composition and sulfation patterns for tissue types upon maturity.
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Wang SZ, Jin JY, Guo YD, Ma LY, Chang Q, Peng XG, Guo FF, Zhang HX, Hu XF, Wang C. Intervertebral disc regeneration using platelet‑rich plasma‑containing bone marrow‑derived mesenchymal stem cells: A preliminary investigation. Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:3475-81. [PMID: 26956080 PMCID: PMC4805096 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.4983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) is a promising strategy for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). However, the short half‑life of growth factors released from PRP cannot continuously stimulate the degenerated discs. Thus, the present study hypothesized that the combined use of PRP and bone marrow‑derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) may repair the early degenerated discs in the long term for their synergistic reparative effect. In the present study, following the induction of early IDD by annular puncture in rabbits, PRP was prepared and mixed with BMSCs (PRP‑BMSC group) for injection into the early degenerated discs. As controls, phosphate‑buffered saline (PBS; PBS group) and PRP (PRP group) were similarly injected. Rabbits without any intervention served as a control group. At 8 weeks following treatment, histological changes of the injected discs were assessed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to detect the T2‑weighted signal intensity of the targeted discs at weeks 1, 2 and 8 following treatment. Annular puncture resulted in disc narrowing and decreased T2‑weighted signal intensity. At weeks 1 and 3, MRI examinations showed regenerative changes in the PRP‑BMSC group and PRP group, whereas the PBS group exhibited a continuous degenerative process of the discs. At 8 weeks post‑injection, the PRP‑BMSCs induced a statistically significant restoration of discs, as shown by MRI (PRP‑BMSCs, vs.PRP and PBS; P<0.05), which was also confirmed by histological evaluations. Thus, compared with PRP, the administration of PRP‑containing BMSCs resulted in a superior regenerative effect on the early degenerated discs, which may be a promising therapeutic strategy for the restoration of early degenerated discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Zheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Ji-Yang Jin
- Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Dong Guo
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Liang-Yu Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Qing Chang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Xin-Gui Peng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Fang-Fang Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Xiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
| | - Xin-Feng Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qidong People's Hospital, Qidong, Jiangsu 226200, P.R. China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, P.R. China
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Potier E, Ito K. Can notochordal cells promote bone marrow stromal cell potential for nucleus pulposus enrichment? A simplified in vitro system. Tissue Eng Part A 2015; 20:3241-51. [PMID: 24873993 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2013.0703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) have shown promising potential to stop intervertebral disc degeneration in several animal models. In order to restore a healthy state, though, this potential should be further stimulated. Notochordal cells (NCs), influential in disc development, have been shown to stimulate BMSC differentiation, but it is unclear how this effect will translate in an environment where resident disc cells (nucleus pulposus cells [NPCs]) could also influence BMSCs. The goal of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the effects of NCs on BMSCs when cocultured with NPCs, in a simplified 3D in vitro system. Bovine BMSCs and NPCs were mixed (Mix) and seeded into alginate beads. Using culture inserts, the Mix was then cocultured with porcine NCs (alginate beads) and compared to coculture with empty beads or porcine skin fibroblasts (SFs, alginate beads). NPCs alone were also cocultured with NCs, and BMSCs alone cultured under chondrogenic conditions. The effects of coculture conditions on cell viability, matrix production (proteoglycan and collagen), and gene expression of disc markers (aggrecan, type II collagen, and SOX9) were assessed after 4 weeks of culture. The NC phenotype and gene expression profile were also analyzed. Coculture with NCs did not significantly influence cell viability, proteoglycan production, or disc marker gene expression of the Mix. When compared to NPCs, the Mix produced the same amount of proteoglycan and displayed a higher expression of disc marker, indicating a stimulation of the BMSCs (and/or NPCs) in the Mix. Additionally, during the 4 weeks of culture, the NC phenotype changed drastically (morphology, gene expression profile). These results show that NCs might not be as stimulatory for BMSCs in an NPC-rich environment, as believed from individual cultures. This absence of effects could be explained by a mild stimulation provided by (de)differentiating NCs and the costimulation of BMSCs and NPCs by each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Potier
- 1 Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology , Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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15
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The effects of human Wharton's jelly cell transplantation on the intervertebral disc in a canine disc degeneration model. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:154. [PMID: 26311326 PMCID: PMC4551525 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0132-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Revised: 05/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cell-based therapy was a promising treatment method for disc degenerative diseases. Wharton’s jelly cell (WJC) has been explored to cure various human diseases, while it still remains unknown about this MSC for disc repair. In our prior work, WJCs could differentiate into nucleus pulposus (NP)-like cells by co-culturing with NP cells in vitro. Thence, the aim of this study was further to investigate the survival and function of WJCs in vivo after transplantation into degenerated canine discs. Method WJCs were isolated from human umbilical cords and labeled with EGFP. The degeneration of L4-5, L5-6, and L6-7 discs of beagles was induced by aspirating the NP tissues. Four weeks after the operation, the injured discs were left to be no treatment at L4-5 (DS group), injected with 0.9 % saline at L5-6 (FS group), and transplanted with EGFP-labeled WJCs at L6-7 (TS group). In all animals, the intact disc L3-4 served as a control (CS group). The animals were followed up for 24 weeks after initial operation. Spine imaging was evaluated at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks, respectively. Histologic, biomechanics and gene expression analyses were performed at 24 weeks. Immunohistochemistry for aggrecan, types II collagen, SOX-9 was employed to investigate the matrix formation in the NP. Results The TS group showed a significantly smaller reduction in the disc height and T2-weighted signal intensity, and a better spinal segmental stability than DS and FS groups. Histologic assay demonstrated that WJCs were specifically detected in TS group at 24 weeks and the discs of TS group maintained a relatively well preserved structure as compared to the discs of DS and FS groups. Furthermore, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry demonstrated that expressions of disc matrix genes, aggrecan, type II collagen, and SOX-9, were up-regulated in TS group compared to DS and FS groups. Conclusion WJCs could not only survive in the degenerate IVDs, but also promote the disc matrix formation of aggrecan and type II collagen in the degenerate IVDs. It may have value in cell-based therapy for degenerative disc disease.
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Allogeneic Articular Chondrocyte Transplantation Downregulates Interleukin 8 Gene Expression in the Degenerating Rabbit Intervertebral Disk In Vivo. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2015; 94:530-8. [PMID: 25133623 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether repopulating the degenerating intervertebral disk (IVD) with articular chondrocytes will decrease inflammation in the degenerating rabbit IVD. DESIGN This was a biologic study in a rabbit IVD-injury model in vivo. Dual cell tracking methods (infrared dye labeling and adenovirus transduction) were used to demonstrate the viability of allogeneic articular chondrocytes injected into degenerating rabbit IVDs. Interleukin 8 gene expression was determined via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Infiltrating inflammatory cells (macrophages, T cells, or neutrophils) were examined with immunohistochemistry. The IVDs were also examined by routine histology. RESULTS Articular chondrocytes labeled with infrared dye were detected in the degenerating IVDs at both 2 and 8 wks after injection. At the 2-wk time point, interleukin 8 gene expression was comparable in IVDs injected with chondrocytes and in intact disks as control (P = 0.647), whereas its expression in IVDs injected with saline increased 50-fold (P = 0.028). Transgene expression of red fluorescent protein, β-galactosidase, and human bone morphogenetic protein 7 diminished at 8 wks after injection. IVDs injected with chondrocytes overexpressing human bone morphogenetic protein 7 did not show lower interleukin 8 gene expression or improved histology. Macrophages were consistently detected by immunohistochemistry in the cartilage formed around the needle insertion sites in both the saline and chondrocyte groups, whereas neither T cells nor neutrophils were detected. CONCLUSIONS Allogeneic rabbit articular chondrocyte survived in the degenerating rabbit IVDs for at least 8 wks. Cell treatment resulted in reduced IVD inflammation but did not significantly improve IVD structure.
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Yang H, Cao C, Wu C, Yuan C, Gu Q, Shi Q, Zou J. TGF-βl Suppresses Inflammation in Cell Therapy for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13254. [PMID: 26289964 PMCID: PMC4542522 DOI: 10.1038/srep13254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that cell therapy may be an effective way to repair intervertebral disc degeneration. As a strong immune suppressor, TGF-β1 has been shown to inhibit inflammation respond effectively. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of TGF-β1 during bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy for disc degeneration. In vitro assays demonstrated that co-culturing of nucleus pulposus cells with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells resulted in significantly higher levels of TGF-βl secretion. This increase inhibited IκB phosphorylation and NF-κB activation, detected by western blot analysis. Meanwhile, in a rabbit model, MRI analysis revealed significant recovery of signal intensity in the degenerative discs of rabbits receiving cells transplantation, than receiving cells treated with a TGF-β1 inhibitor or saline. These findings indicated that enhanced TGF-β1 production recovered the degeneration of intervertebral disc. And also immunohistochemical staining detected enhanced collagen II expression in the rabbits treated with cell transplantation. However, the NF-κB positive cells were significantly less than other two control groups. Thus, cell therapy promoted TGF-β1 expression in nucleus pulposus, leading to anti-inflammatory effects via the inhibition of NF-κB, and the amelioration of disc degradation due to increased expression of collagen II and aggrecan in degenerative intervertebral disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Cheng Cao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Chunshen Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Chenxi Yuan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Qiaoli Gu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Qing Shi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
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Sakai D, Grad S. Advancing the cellular and molecular therapy for intervertebral disc disease. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 84:159-71. [PMID: 24993611 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The healthy intervertebral disc (IVD) fulfils the essential function of load absorption, while maintaining multi-axial flexibility of the spine. The interrelated tissues of the IVD, the annulus fibrosus, the nucleus pulposus, and the cartilaginous endplate, are characterised by their specific niche, implying avascularity, hypoxia, acidic environment, low nutrition, and low cellularity. Anabolic and catabolic factors balance a slow physiological turnover of extracellular matrix synthesis and breakdown. Deviations in mechanical load, nutrient supply, cellular activity, matrix composition and metabolism may initiate a cascade ultimately leading to tissue dehydration, fibrosis, nerve and vessel ingrowth, disc height loss and disc herniation. Spinal instability, inflammation and neural sensitisation are sources of back pain, a worldwide leading burden that is challenging to cure. In this review, advances in cell and molecular therapy, including mobilisation and activation of endogenous progenitor cells, progenitor cell homing, and targeted delivery of cells, genes, or bioactive factors are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1193, Japan; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Repair Program, AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland.
| | - Sibylle Grad
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland; Collaborative Research Partner Annulus Fibrosus Repair Program, AO Foundation, Davos, Switzerland.
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Cao C, Zou J, Liu X, Shapiro A, Moral M, Luo Z, Shi Q, Liu J, Yang H, Ebraheim N. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells slow intervertebral disc degeneration through the NF-κB pathway. Spine J 2015; 15:530-8. [PMID: 25457469 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2014.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Previous studies have demonstrated the use of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in tissue-engineering treatments to slow or reverse diseased intervertebral discs. Several approaches have successfully used the coculturing of stem cells with disc-native nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) with the evidence of transformed BMSCs into NP-like cells, increased activity and matrix production by NPCs, or elements of both. The influence of the cytokine transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in the differentiation of BMSCs into NP-like cells and its upregulation in coculture to increase matrix production are well established. However, the role of the inflammatory signaling molecule nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in intervertebral disc degeneration is far less clear, although there is some existing evidence suggesting its role in the pathogenesis and progression of disc disease. A limited number of studies in other pathologies have alluded to the antagonistic relationship between both proteins. To date, there is no such investigation of their dynamic role in coculture of BMSCs and NPCs. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship of the regenerative effects of BMSCs cocultured with NPCs. The authors hypothesized that as levels of TGF-β increase in the coculture, the levels of NF-κB will concomitantly decrease. This would in turn be reflected by an increase in the expression of messenger RNA markers of the nucleus pulposus matrix that includes aggrecan, Type II collagen (CII), and SOX-9 and an increase in the cellular proliferation. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING This study is based on a coculture with the contact of rabbit NPCs and BMSCs. METHODS Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were cocultured with NPCs at a ratio of 1:1 and compared with BMSC and NPC controls cultured alone. Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 from 3 to 9 days. Gene expressions of aggrecan, CII, and SOX-9 was assayed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction from 5 to 14 days. Detection of TGF-βl and NF-κB was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemical staining was carried out to evaluate CII synthesis. RESULTS After 3 days, cellular proliferation of the cocultured group exceeded that of controls. After 11 days, the expression of SOX-9 in the cocultured group had also exceeded controls. Furthermore, after 14 days, expressions of aggrecan and CII significantly exceeded controls. Immunohistochemical stains of CII in the NPC control group were positive at each point in time and demonstrated strongest expression at 14 days. Coculturing BMSCs with NPCs, therefore, seems to have resulted in the promotion of aggrecan, CII, and SOX-9 gene expressions. Finally, after 11 days, TGF-βl content of the cocultured group significantly exceeded control levels, whereas NF-κB content had significantly lowered. CONCLUSIONS Coculture of BMSCs may be able to delay NPC matrix degeneration potentially through the concomitant upregulation of TGF-β and the downregulation of NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Cao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Xiaochen Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Anna Shapiro
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Muhammad Moral
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Zongping Luo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Qin Shi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Jiayong Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi St, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China.
| | - Nabil Ebraheim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
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Fontana G, Srivastava A, Thomas D, Lalor P, Dockery P, Pandit A. Three-Dimensional Microgel Platform for the Production of Cell Factories Tailored for the Nucleus Pulposus. Bioconjug Chem 2014; 26:1297-306. [DOI: 10.1021/bc5004247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Fontana
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Akshay Srivastava
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Dilip Thomas
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Pierce Lalor
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Peter Dockery
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- Network of Excellence for Functional
Biomaterials and ‡Anatomy, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Leung VY, Aladin DM, Lv F, Tam V, Sun Y, Lau RY, Hung SC, Ngan AH, Tang B, Lim CT, Wu EX, Luk KD, Lu WW, Masuda K, Chan D, Cheung KM. Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reduce Intervertebral Disc Fibrosis and Facilitate Repair. Stem Cells 2014; 32:2164-77. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.1717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 03/01/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Y.L. Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
- Department of Biochemistry; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
- Centre for Reproduction, Development, and Growth; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Darwesh M.K. Aladin
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
- Mechanobiology Institute; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Fengjuan Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Vivian Tam
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Roy Y.C. Lau
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Siu-Chun Hung
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Alfonso H.W. Ngan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Tang
- Department of Micro-nano Materials and Devices; South University of Science and Technology of China; Guangzhou People's Republic of China
| | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Mechanobiology Institute; National University of Singapore; Singapore
- Department of Bioengineering; National University of Singapore; Singapore
- Department of Mechanical Engineering; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Ed X. Wu
- Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Keith D.K. Luk
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - William W. Lu
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Koichi Masuda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery; University of California; San Diego California USA
| | - Danny Chan
- Department of Biochemistry; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
- Centre for Reproduction, Development, and Growth; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
| | - Kenneth M.C. Cheung
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
- Centre for Reproduction, Development, and Growth; The University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR People's Republic of China
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Jin ES, Jeong JH, Min J, Jeon SR, Choi KH. Implantation of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells in degenerative intervertebral disc of rat: When is the most effective time during the degeneration period. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s13770-014-0055-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Differentiation of menstrual blood-derived stem cells toward nucleus pulposus-like cells in a coculture system with nucleus pulposus cells. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2014; 39:754-60. [PMID: 24503685 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Human stromal stem cells derived from menstrual blood (MenSCs) and nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were cocultured under normal or low oxygen (O2) condition. OBJECTIVE To assess the differentiation capability of MenSCs toward nucleus pulposus cells under normal or low oxygen condition. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Given the proliferative capacity and pluripotentiality of mesenchymal stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells transplantation is thought to be a promising approach to managing intervertebral disc degeneration. METHODS Using coculture plates with 0.4-μm pore size polyethylene terephthalate track-etched inserts, MenSCs and NP cells (1:1 ratio) were cocultured with cell-to-cell contact for 2 weeks in normal (20% O2) or low oxygen tension (2% O2), respectively. Extracellular matrix accumulation was quantified by dimethylmethylene blue assay, histological staining, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Novel characteristic human NP markers cytokeratin-19 (KRT19), carbonic anhydrase XII (CA12), and forkhead box F1 (FoxF1) were also detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The result of quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction showed that aggrecan and COL2A1 genes expression was significantly increased in differentiated MenSCs (P < 0.05). There was significantly more COL2A1 gene expression in normoxic group than that in low O2 group (P < 0.05). But no significant difference was observed in aggrecan gene expression between normoxic group and low O2 group. These aforementioned results were also confirmed by histological analysis. We also found that the characteristic NP markers (KRT19, CA12, FoxF1) were significantly upregulated in differentiated MenSCs. Moreover, low O2 tension (2%) further enhanced these genes expression (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In our study, MenSCs were successfully differentiated into NP-like cells and may become a new source of seed cells for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration in the future. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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Werner BC, Li X, Shen FH. Stem cells in preclinical spine studies. Spine J 2014; 14:542-51. [PMID: 24246748 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT The recent identification and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells have introduced a shift in the research focus for future technologies in spinal surgery to achieve spinal fusion and treat degenerative disc disease. Current and past techniques use allograft to replace diseased tissue or rely on host responses to recruit necessary cellular progenitors. Adult stem cells display long-term proliferation, efficient self-renewal, and multipotent differentiation. PURPOSE This review will focus on two important applications of stem cells in spinal surgery: spine fusion and the management of degenerative disc disease. STUDY DESIGN Review of the literature. METHODS Relevant preclinical literature regarding stem cell sources, growth factors, scaffolds, and animal models for both osteogenesis and chondrogenesis will be reviewed, with an emphasis on those studies that focus on spine applications of these technologies. RESULTS In both osteogenesis and chondrogenesis, adult stem cells derived from bone marrow or adipose show promise in preclinical studies. Various growth factors and scaffolds have also been shown to enhance the properties and eventual clinical potential of these cells. Although its utility in clinical applications has yet to be proven, gene therapy has also been shown to hold promise in preclinical studies. CONCLUSIONS The future of spine surgery is constantly evolving, and the recent advancements in stem cell-based technologies for both spine fusion and the treatment of degenerative disc disease is promising and indicative that stem cells will undoubtedly play a major role clinically. It is likely that these stem cells, growth factors, and scaffolds will play a critical role in the future for replacing diseased tissue in disease processes such as degenerative disc disease and in enhancing host tissue to achieve more reliable spine fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Werner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, PO Box 800159, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0159 USA
| | - Xudong Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, PO Box 800159, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0159 USA
| | - Francis H Shen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, PO Box 800159, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0159 USA.
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Nonviral Gene Delivery of Growth and Differentiation Factor 5 to Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Injected into a 3D Bovine Intervertebral Disc Organ Culture System. Stem Cells Int 2013; 2013:326828. [PMID: 24454406 PMCID: PMC3885261 DOI: 10.1155/2013/326828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) cell therapy with unconditioned 2D expanded mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) is a promising concept yet challenging to realize. Differentiation of MSCs by nonviral gene delivery of growth and differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) by electroporation mediated gene transfer could be an excellent source for cell transplantation. Human MSCs were harvested from bone marrow aspirate and GDF5 gene transfer was achieved by in vitro electroporation. Transfected cells were cultured as monolayers and as 3D cultures in 1.2% alginate bead culture. MSC expressed GDF5 efficiently for up to 21 days. The combination of GDF5 gene transfer and 3D culture in alginate showed an upregulation of aggrecan and SOX9, two markers for chondrogenesis, and KRT19 as a marker for discogenesis compared to untransfected cells. The cells encapsulated in alginate produced more proteoglycans expressed in GAG/DNA ratio. Furthermore, GDF5 transfected MCS injected into an IVD papain degeneration organ culture model showed a partial recovery of the GAG/DNA ratio after 7 days. In this study we demonstrate the potential of GDF5 transfected MSC as a promising approach for clinical translation for disc regeneration.
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Cell sources for nucleus pulposus regeneration. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2013; 23 Suppl 3:S364-74. [PMID: 24297331 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-013-3106-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is increasing interest in the development of cell therapy as a possible approach for the treatment of degenerative disc disease. To regenerate nucleus pulposus tissue, the cells must produce an appropriate proteoglycan-rich matrix, as this is essential for the functioning of the intervertebral disc. The natural environment within the disc is very challenging to implanted cells, particularly if they have been subcultured in normal laboratory conditions. The purpose of this work is to discuss parameters relevant to translating different proposed cell therapies of IVD into clinical use. RESULTS Several sources of cells have been proposed, including nucleus pulposus cells, chondrocytes and mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue. There are some clinical trials and reports of attempts to regenerate nucleus pulposus utilising either autologous or allogenic cells. While the published results of clinical applications of these cell therapies do not indicate any safety issues, additional evidence will be needed to prove their long-term efficacy. CONCLUSION This article discusses parameters relevant for successful translation of research on different cell sources into clinically applicable cell therapies: the influence of the intervertebral disc microenvironment on the cell phenotype, issues associated with cell culture and technical preparation of cell products, as well as discussing current regulatory requirements. There are advantages and disadvantages of each proposed cell type, but no strong evidence to favour any one particular cell source at the moment.
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Chon BH, Lee EJ, Jing L, Setton LA, Chen J. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells exhibit immature nucleus pulposus cell phenotype in a laminin-rich pseudo-three-dimensional culture system. Stem Cell Res Ther 2013; 4:120. [PMID: 24405888 PMCID: PMC3854685 DOI: 10.1186/scrt331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cell supplementation to the herniated or degenerated intervertebral disc (IVD) is a potential strategy to promote tissue regeneration and slow disc pathology. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (HUCMSCs) – originating from the Wharton’s jelly – remain an attractive candidate for such endeavors with their ability to differentiate into multiple lineages. Previously, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been studied as a potential source for disc tissue regeneration. However, no studies have demonstrated that MSCs can regenerate matrix with unique characteristics matching that of immature nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues of the IVD. In our prior work, immature NP cells were found to express specific laminin isoforms and laminin-binding receptors that may serve as phenotypic markers for evaluating MSC differentiation to NP-like cells. The goal of this study is to evaluate these markers and matrix synthesis for HUCMSCs cultured in a laminin-rich pseudo-three-dimensional culture system. Methods HUCMSCs were seeded on top of Transwell inserts pre-coated with Matrigel™, which contained mainly laminin-111. Cells were cultured under hypoxia environment with three differentiation conditions: NP differentiation media (containing 2.5% Matrigel™ solution to provide for a pseudo-three-dimensional laminin culture system) with no serum, or the same media supplemented with either insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) or transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Cell clustering behavior, matrix production and the expression of NP-specific laminin and laminin-receptors were evaluated at days 1, 7, 13 and 21 of culture. Results Data show that a pseudo-three-dimensional culture condition (laminin-1 rich) promoted HUCMSC differentiation under no serum conditions. Starting at day 1, HUCMSCs demonstrated a cell clustering morphology similar to that of immature NP cells in situ and that observed for primary immature NP cells within the similar laminin-rich culture system (prior study). Differentiated HUCMSCs under all conditions were found to contain glycosaminoglycan, expressed extracellular matrix proteins of collagen II and laminin α5, and laminin receptors (integrin α3 and β4 subunits). However, neither growth factor treatment generated distinct differences in NP-like phenotype for HUCMSC as compared with no-serum conditions. Conclusions HUCMSCs have the potential to differentiate into cells sharing features with immature NP cells in a laminin-rich culture environment and may be useful for IVD cellular therapy.
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Tao YQ, Liang CZ, Li H, Zhang YJ, Li FC, Chen G, Chen QX. Potential of co-culture of nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells and nucleus pulposus cells in hyperosmotic microenvironment for intervertebral disc regeneration. Cell Biol Int 2013; 37:826-34. [PMID: 23554141 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) are a potential cell source for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration, but little is known about their response to IVD-like high osmolarity (400 mOsm). This study was to investigate the viability, proliferation and protein biosynthesis of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), NPMSCs and co-cultured NPMSCs-NPCs under IVD-like high osmolarity conditions. NPCs and NPMSCs were isolated and cultured under standard and IVD-like high osmolarity conditions for 1 or 2 weeks. Cell viability was measured by annexin V-FITC and PI staining, and cell proliferation measured by MTT assay. The expression of SOX-9, aggrecan and collagen-II was measured by RT-PCR and Western blot analyses. IVD-like high osmolarity condition slightly inhibited cell viability and decreased the expression of SOX-9, aggrecan and collagen-II at the mRNA and protein levels in all groups compared with standard condition. NPMSCs could tolerate IVD-like high osmolarity, and NPCs-NPMSCs co-culture increased cell proliferation and the expression of SOX-9, aggrecan and collagen-II under both culture conditions, suggesting that co-culture of NPMSCs-NPCs has potential application for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Qing Tao
- Department of Orthopedics, 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 88 Jie Fang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
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Diederichs S, Shine KM, Tuan RS. The promise and challenges of stem cell-based therapies for skeletal diseases: stem cell applications in skeletal medicine: potential, cell sources and characteristics, and challenges of clinical translation. Bioessays 2012; 35:220-30. [PMID: 22948900 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201200068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite decades of research, remaining safety concerns regarding disease transmission, heterotopic tissue formation, and tumorigenicity have kept stem cell-based therapies largely outside the standard-of-care for musculoskeletal medicine. Recent insights into trophic and immune regulatory activities of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), although incomplete, have stimulated a plethora of new clinical trials for indications far beyond simply supplying progenitors to replenish or re-build lost/damaged tissues. Cell banks are being established and cell-based products are in active clinical trials. Moreover, significant advances have also been made in the field of pluripotent stem cells, in particular the recent development of induced pluripotent stem cells. Their indefinite proliferation potential promises to overcome the limited supply of tissue-specific cells and adult stem cells. However, substantial hurdles related to their safety must be overcome for these cells to be clinically applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solvig Diederichs
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Engineering, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Strassburg S, Hodson NW, Hill PI, Richardson SM, Hoyland JA. Bi-directional exchange of membrane components occurs during co-culture of mesenchymal stem cells and nucleus pulposus cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33739. [PMID: 22438989 PMCID: PMC3305345 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies have been proposed as novel treatments for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. We have previously demonstrated that when MSCs are co-cultured with nucleus pulposus (NP) cells with direct cell-cell contact, they differentiate along the NP lineage and simultaneously stimulate the degenerate NP cell population to regain a normal (non-degenerate) phenotype, an effect which requires cell-cell communication. However, the mechanisms by which NP cells and MSCs interact in this system are currently unclear. Thus, in this study we investigated a range of potential mechanisms for exchange of cellular components or information that may direct these changes, including cell fusion, gap-junctional communication and exchange of membrane components by direct transfer or via microvesicle formation. Flow cytometry of fluorescently labeled MSCs and NP cells revealed evidence of some cell fusion and formation of gapjunctions, although at the three timepoints studied these phenomena were detectable only in a small proportion of cells. While these mechanisms may play a role in cell-cell communication, the data suggests they are not the predominant mechanism of interaction. However, flow cytometry of fluorescently dual-labeled cells showed that extensive bi-directional transfer of membrane components is operational during direct co-culture of MSCs and NP cells. Furthermore, there was also evidence for secretion and internalization of membrane-bound microvesicles by both cell types. Thus, this study highlights bi-directional intercellular transfer of membrane components as a possible mechanism of cellular communication between MSC and NP cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Strassburg
- Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel W. Hodson
- Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick I. Hill
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Regenerative Medicine, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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