Immunomodulatory properties of human placental mesenchymal stem/stromal cells

Ameliorative Effect of Combined Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells plus Platelet-rich Plasma on Polycystic Ovarian Model in Rats: A Biochemical and Histological Study

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of infertility in women, characterized by metabolic and hormonal irregularities. We investigated the effects of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDMSCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), as well as their combination on follicular development, hormonal profile, inflammatory parameters, and insulin resistance in a model of PCOS. In this study, 25 female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups: Sham (given a dose of 1 mL of a 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) solution), PCOS (administered 1 mg/kg of letrozole (LTZ) dissolved in CMC for 21 days), PDMSC (treated with a single intraovarian dose of PDMSCs), PRP (treated with a single intraovarian dose of PRP), and a combined PDMSC and PRP-treated group. After two weeks, serum and ovarian samples were collected for biochemical and histological analyses. Our results demonstrated that the simultaneous administration of PDMSCs and PRP had a synergistic effect compared to monotherapy, leading to an increase in estradiol (E2) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) serum levels, a decrease in luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels, as well as inflammatory factors. Moreover, the combined therapy was associated with significantly lower levels of the homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), fasting insulin (FINS), and blood glucose (FBG) compared to monotherapy. The combined treatment also caused a significant reduction in cystic follicles and an elevated number of corpus luteum, primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles. In conclusion, the combination of PRP and PDMSCs may have an ameliorative effect on modifying metabolic abnormalities and accelerating ovarian regeneration in PCOS.

Exploring perinatal mesenchymal stromal cells as a potential therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the synovial tissue, driven by aberrant activation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems, which can lead to irreversible disability. Despite the increasing therapeutic approaches for RA, only a low percentage of patients achieve sustained disease remission, and the persistence of immune dysregulation is likely responsible for disease recurrence once remission is attained. Cell therapy is an attractive, wide-spectrum strategy to modulate inflammation, and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) derived from perinatal tissues provide valuable tools for their use in regenerative medicine, mainly due to their immunomodulatory properties. Several in vitro studies have shown that perinatal MSC modulate the proliferation, maturation, and cytokine secretion profile of both innate and adaptive immune cells. Moreover, different beneficial effects have also been described when perinatal MSC were used to treat animal models of diseases associated with inflammatory conditions and degenerative processes. Specifically, in experimental models of RA, treatment with perinatal MSC resulted in a strong reduction of articular damage, which was associated with the modulation of both inflammation and activation of stromal resident cells in the synovial tissue. Here, we present in vitro and in vivo evidence supporting the use of perinatal MSC in RA. We also highlight the promising results from the few published clinical trials, which demonstrate the safety of perinatal MSC.

Partial Inhibition of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Phenotypes by Placenta-Derived DBMSCs in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines, In Vitro

Stem cell-based therapies hold significant potential for cancer treatment due to their unique properties, including migration toward tumor niche, secretion of bioactive molecules, and immunosuppression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from adult tissues can inhibit tumor progression, angiogenesis, and apoptosis of cancer cells. We have previously reported the isolation and characterization of placenta-derived decidua basalis mesenchymal stem cells (DBMSCs), which demonstrated higher levels of pro-migratory and anti-apoptotic genes, indicating potential anti-cancer effects. In this study, we analyzed the anti-cancer effects of DBMSCs on human breast cancer cell lines MDA231 and MCF7, with MCF 10A used as control. We also investigated how these cancer cells lines affect the functional competence of DBMSCs. By co-culturing DBMSCs with cancer cells, we analyzed changes in functions of both cell types, as well as alterations in their genomic and proteomic profile. Our results showed that treatment with DBMSCs significantly reduced the functionality of MDA231 and MCF7 cells, while MCF 10A cells remained unaffected. DBMSC treatment decreased epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related protein levels in MDA231 cells and modulated expression of other cancer-related genes in MDA231 and MCF7 cells. Although cancer cells reduced DBMSC proliferation, they increased their expression of anti-apoptotic genes. These findings suggest that DBMSCs can inhibit EMT-related proteins and reduce the invasive characteristics of MDA231 and MCF7 breast cancer cells, highlighting their potential as candidates for cell-based cancer therapies.

Narrative Review of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Renal Diseases: Mechanisms, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions

Renal diseases, particularly acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), are significant global health challenges. These conditions impair kidney function and can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular diseases, which further exacerbate the public health burden. Currently, the global AKI mortality rate is alarmingly high (20%-50%); CKD is projected to emerge as a major global health burden by 2040. Existing treatments such as hemodialysis and kidney transplantation have limited effectiveness and are often associated with adverse effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer considerable potential for treating renal diseases owing to their regenerative and immunomodulatory properties. Thus, this review focuses on the application of MSCs in renal disease, discusses fundamental research findings, and evaluates their application in clinical trials. Moreover, we discuss the impact and safety of MSCs as a therapeutic option and highlight challenges and potential directions for their clinical application. We selected research articles from PubMed published within the last 5 years (from 2019), focusing on high-impact journals and clinical trial data, and included a few key studies predating 2019. Considerations included the novelty of the research, sample size, experimental design, and data reliability. With advancements in single-cell sequencing, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and other cutting-edge technologies, future MSC research will explore combination therapies and personalized treatments to provide more promising, safer treatments with reduced adverse reactions and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. These advances will improve kidney disease treatment methods, enhance patient quality of life, and maximize the benefits of MSC therapies.

Current Non-Surgical Curative Regenerative Therapies for Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disease affecting middle-aged and elderly individuals, with knee pain as a common complaint. Standard therapy approaches generally attempt to alleviate pain and inflammation, using various pharmacological and non-pharmacological options. However, the efficacy of these therapies in long-term tissue repair remains debated. As an alternative, regenerative medicine offers a promising strategy, with decreased adverse event rates and increasing evidence of safety and efficacy. This review will outline current advances in regenerative medicine for knee OA, emphasizing outpatient clinic-based therapies that use orthobiological and non-biological products. Different strategies based on orthobiologics are discussed as potential regenerative options for the management of knee OA. Cell-free therapies including platelet-rich plasma, autologous anti-inflammatories, exosomes, human placenta extract, and mitochondrial transplantation are discussed, focusing on their potential for cartilage regeneration. Additionally, cell-based therapies with regenerative properties including bone marrow aspirate concentrate, adipose stromal vascular fraction, microfat, nanofat, stem cell therapy, and genetically modified cells as part of orthobiologics, are being investigated. Also, this study is looking into non-biological approaches such as using gold-induced cytokines, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, and ozone therapy. The mechanisms of action, effectiveness, and clinical applications of each therapy are being explored, providing insights into their role in the management of knee OA.

Human decidua basalis mesenchymal stem/stromal cells enhance anticancer properties of human natural killer cells, in vitro

Introduction

Mesenchymal stem cells/stromal cells from the Decidua Basalis of the human placenta (DBMSCs) express wide range of effector molecules that modulate the functions of their target cells. These properties make them potential candidate for use in cellular therapy. In this study, we have investigated the consequences of interaction between DBMSCs and natural killer (NK) cells for both cell types.

Methods

DBMSCs were cultured with IL-2-activated and resting non-activated NK cells isolated from healthy human peripheral blood and various functional assays were performed including, NK cell proliferation and cytolytic activities. Flow cytometry and microscopic studies were performed to examine the expression of NK cell receptors that mediate these cytolytic activities against DBMSCs. Moreover, the mechanism underlying these effects was also investigated.

Results

Our findings revealed that, co-culture of DBMSCs and NK cells resulted in inhibition of proliferation of resting NK cells, while proliferation of IL-2 activated NK cells was increased. Contrarily, treatment of DBMSC's with comparatively high numbers of IL-2 activated NK cells, resulted in their lysis, whereas treatment with low numbers resulted in reduction in their proliferation. Cytolytic activity of NK cells against DBMSCs was mediated by several activating NK cell receptors. In spite of the expression of HLA class I molecules by DBMSCs, they were still lysed by NK cells, excluding their involvement in cytolytic activity. In addition, preconditioning NK cells by DBMSCs, enhanced their ability to suppress tumor cell proliferation and in severe cases resulted in their partial lysis. Lysis and decrease of tumor cell proliferation is associated with increased expression of important molecules involved in anticancer activities.

Discussion

We conclude that DBMSCs exhibit dualfunctions on NK cells that enhance their anticancer therapeutic potential.

Therapeutic Application of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Domestic Animals

Recently, the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been extensively studied in both human and veterinary medicine. EVs are nano-sized particles containing biological components commonly found in other biological materials. For that reason, EV isolation and characterization are critical to draw precise conclusions during their investigation. Research on EVs within veterinary medicine is still considered in its early phases, yet numerous papers were published in recent years. The conventional adult tissues for deriving MSCs include adipose tissue and bone marrow. Nonetheless, alternative sources such as synovial fluid, endometrium, gingiva, and milk have also been intermittently used. Fetal adnexa are amniotic membrane/fluid, umbilical cord and Wharton's jelly. Cells derived from fetal adnexa exhibit an intermediate state between embryonic and adult cells, demonstrating higher proliferative and differentiative potential and longer telomeres compared to cells from adult tissues. Summarized here are the principal and recent preclinical and clinical studies performed in domestic animals such as horse, cattle, dog and cat. To minimize the use of antibiotics and address the serious issue of antibiotic resistance as a public health concern, they will undoubtedly also be utilized in the future to treat infections in domestic animals. A number of concerns, including large-scale production with standardization of EV separation and characterization techniques, must be resolved for clinical application.

Exosomes: compositions, biogenesis, and mechanisms in diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wounds are characterized by incomplete healing and delayed healing, resulting in a considerable global health care burden. Exosomes are lipid bilayer structures secreted by nearly all cells and express characteristic conserved proteins and parent cell-associated proteins. Exosomes harbor a diverse range of biologically active macromolecules and small molecules that can act as messengers between different cells, triggering functional changes in recipient cells and thus endowing the ability to cure various diseases, including diabetic wounds. Exosomes accelerate diabetic wound healing by regulating cellular function, inhibiting oxidative stress damage, suppressing the inflammatory response, promoting vascular regeneration, accelerating epithelial regeneration, facilitating collagen remodeling, and reducing scarring. Exosomes from different tissues or cells potentially possess functions of varying levels and can promote wound healing. For example, mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) have favorable potential in the field of healing due to their superior stability, permeability, biocompatibility, and immunomodulatory properties. Exosomes, which are derived from skin cellular components, can modulate inflammation and promote the regeneration of key skin cells, which in turn promotes skin healing. Therefore, this review mainly emphasizes the roles and mechanisms of exosomes from different sources, represented by MSCs and skin sources, in improving diabetic wound healing. A deeper understanding of therapeutic exosomes will yield promising candidates and perspectives for diabetic wound healing management.

Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Promising Therapeutic Opportunities for Diabetic Wound Healing

Wound healing is a sophisticated and orderly process of cellular interactions in which the body restores tissue architecture and functionality following injury. Healing of chronic diabetic wounds is difficult due to impaired blood circulation, a reduced immune response, and disrupted cellular repair mechanisms, which are often associated with diabetes. Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (SC-EVs) hold the regenerative potential, encapsulating a diverse cargo of proteins, RNAs, and cytokines, presenting a safe, bioactivity, and less ethical issues than other treatments. SC-EVs orchestrate multiple regenerative processes by modulating cellular communication, increasing angiogenesis, and promoting the recruitment and differentiation of progenitor cells, thereby potentiating the reparative milieu for diabetic wound healing. Therefore, this review investigated the effects and mechanisms of EVs from various stem cells in diabetic wound healing, as well as their limitations and challenges. Continued exploration of SC-EVs has the potential to revolutionize diabetic wound care.

Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes inhibits fibrosis in human endometrial stromal cells via miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis

Endometrial fibrosis is the histologic appearance of intrauterine adhesion (IUA). Emerging evidences demonstrated umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (UCMSC-exo) could alleviate endometrial fibrosis. But the specific mechanism is not clear. In this study, we explored the effect of UCMSC-exo on endometrial fibrosis, and investigated the possible role of miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis in anti-fibrotic properties of UCMSC-exo. UCMSC-exo were isolated and identified. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) was used to induce human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) fibrosis. Dual luciferase assay was performed to verify the relationship between miR-140-3p and FOXP1. The expressions of fibrotic markers, SIP1, and p-Smad2/p-Smad3 in HESCs stimulated with UCMSC-exo were detected by western blot. In addition, the effects of miR-140-3p mimic, miR-140-3p inhibitor and FOXP1 over-expression on endometrial fibrosis were assessed. The isolated UCMSC-exo had a typical cup-shaped morphology and could be internalized into HESCs. The expressions of fibrotic markers were significantly increased by TGF-β, which was reversed by UCMSC-exo. MiR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo ameliorated TGf-β-induced HESCs fibrosis. FOXP1 was identified as the direct target of miR-140-3p, which could inversely regulate miR-140-3p's function on HESCs fibrosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that miR-140-3p in UCMSC-exo regulated Smad signal pathway to exert the anti-fibrotic effect in HESCs. The anti-fibrotic effect of UCMSC-derived exosomes against HESC fibrosis was at least partially achieved by miR-140-3p/FOXP1/Smad axis.

Xenogenic Application of Human Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in a Porcine Large Animal Model

In animal models, cell therapies for different diseases or injuries have been very successful. Preclinical studies with cells aiming at a stroke, heart attack, and other emergency situations were promising but sometimes failed translation in clinical situations. We, therefore, investigated if human placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells can be injected in pigs without provoking rejection to serve as a xenogenic transplantation model to bridge preclinical animal studies to more promising future preclinical studies. Male human placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells were isolated, expanded, and characterized by flow cytometry, in vitro differentiation, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction to prove their nature. Such cells were injected into the sphincter muscle of the urethrae of female pigs under visual control by cystoscopy employing a Williams needle. The animals were observed over 7 days of follow-up. Reactions of the host to the xenogeneic cells were explored by monitoring body temperature, and inflammatory markers including IL-1ß, CRP, and haptoglobin in blood. After sacrifice on day 7, infiltration of inflammatory cells in the tissue targeted was investigated by histology and immunofluorescence. DNA of injected human cells was detected by PCR. Upon injection in vascularized porcine tissue, human placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells were tolerated, and systemic inflammatory parameters were not elevated. DNA of injected cells was detected in situ 7 days after injection, and moderate local infiltration of inflammatory cells was observed. The therapeutic potential of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells can be explored in porcine large animal models of injury or disease. This seems a promising strategy to explore technologies for cell injections in infarcted hearts or small organs and tissues in therapeutically relevant amounts requiring large animal models to yield meaningful outcomes.

DNA methylation profiles reveal sex-specific associations between gestational exposure to ambient air pollution and placenta cell-type composition in the PRISM cohort study

BACKGROUND

Gestational exposure to ambient air pollution has been associated with adverse health outcomes for mothers and newborns. The placenta is a central regulator of the in utero environment that orchestrates development and postnatal life via fetal programming. Ambient air pollution contaminants can reach the placenta and have been shown to alter bulk placental tissue DNA methylation patterns. Yet the effect of air pollution on placental cell-type composition has not been examined. We aimed to investigate whether the exposure to ambient air pollution during gestation is associated with placental cell types inferred from DNA methylation profiles.

METHODS

We leveraged data from 226 mother-infant pairs in the Programming of Intergenerational Stress Mechanisms (PRISM) longitudinal cohort in the Northeastern US. Daily concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) at 1 km spatial resolution were estimated from a spatiotemporal model developed with satellite data and linked to womens' addresses during pregnancy and infants' date of birth. The proportions of six cell types [syncytiotrophoblasts, trophoblasts, stromal, endothelial, Hofbauer and nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs)] were derived from placental tissue 450K DNA methylation array. We applied compositional regression to examine overall changes in placenta cell-type composition related to PM2.5 average by pregnancy trimester. We also investigated the association between PM2.5 and individual cell types using beta regression. All analyses were performed in the overall sample and stratified by infant sex adjusted for covariates.

RESULTS

In male infants, first trimester (T1) PM2.5 was associated with changes in placental cell composition (p = 0.03), driven by a decrease [per one PM2.5 interquartile range (IQR)] of 0.037 in the syncytiotrophoblasts proportion (95% confidence interval (CI) [- 0.066, - 0.012]), accompanied by an increase in trophoblasts of 0.033 (95% CI: [0.009, 0.064]). In females, second and third trimester PM2.5 were associated with overall changes in placental cell-type composition (T2: p = 0.040; T3: p = 0.049), with a decrease in the nRBC proportion. Individual cell-type analysis with beta regression showed similar results with an additional association found for third trimester PM2.5 and stromal cells in females (decrease of 0.054, p = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Gestational exposure to air pollution was associated with placenta cell composition. Further research is needed to corroborate these findings and evaluate their role in PM2.5-related impact in the placenta and consequent fetal programming.

Stem cells therapy for diabetes: from past to future

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease of carbohydrate metabolism characterized by uncontrolled hyperglycemia due to the body's impaired ability to produce or respond to insulin. Oral or injectable exogenous insulin and its analogs cannot mimic endogenous insulin secreted by healthy individuals, and pancreatic and islet transplants face a severe shortage of sources and transplant complications, all of which limit the widespread use of traditional strategies in diabetes treatment. We are now in the era of stem cells and their potential in ameliorating human disease. At the same time, the rapid development of gene editing and cell-encapsulation technologies has added to the wings of stem cell therapy. However, there are still many unanswered questions before stem cell therapy can be applied clinically to patients with diabetes. In this review, we discuss the progress of strategies to obtain insulin-producing cells from different types of stem cells, the application of gene editing in stem cell therapy for diabetes, as well as summarize the current advanced cell encapsulation technologies in diabetes therapy and look forward to the future development of stem cell therapy in diabetes.

Human placental extract: a potential therapeutic in treating osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease marked by cartilage degradation and loss of function. Recently, there have been increased efforts to attenuate and reverse OA by stimulating cartilage regeneration and preventing cartilage degradation. Human placental extract (HPE) may be an option due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and growth stimulatory properties. These properties are useful in preventing cell death and senescence, which may optimize in-situ cartilage regeneration. In this review, we discuss the anatomy and physiology of the placenta, as well as explore in vivo and in vitro studies assessing its effects on tissue regeneration. Finally, we assess the potential role of HPE in cartilage regenerative medicine and OA. The Medline database was utilized for all studies that involved the use of HPE or human placenta hydrolysate. Exclusion criteria included articles not written in English, conference reviews, editorials, letters to the editor, surveys, case reports, and case series. HPE had significant anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, HPE had a role in attenuating cellular senescence and cell apoptosis via reduction of reactive oxidative species both in vitro and in vivo. One study explored the effects of HPE in OA and demonstrated reduction in cartilage catabolic gene expression, indicating HPE's effect in attenuating OA. HPE houses favorable properties that can attenuate and reverse tissue damage. This may be a beneficial therapeutic in OA as it creates a more favorable environment for in-situ cartilage regeneration. More well designed in-vitro and in-vivo studies are needed to define the role of HPE in treating OA.

Preconditioned Chorionic Villus Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells (CVMSCs) Minimize the Invasive Phenotypes of Breast Cancer Cell Line MDA231 In Vitro

Among the newer choices of targeted therapies against cancer, stem cell therapy is gaining importance because of their antitumor properties. Stem cells suppress growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis, and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. In this study, we have examined the impact of the cellular component and the secretome of preconditioned and naïve placenta-derived Chorionic Villus Mesenchymal Stem Cells (CVMSCs) on the functional characteristics of the Human Breast Cancer cell line MDA231. MDA231 cells were treated with preconditioned CVMSCs and their conditioned media (CM), followed by an evaluation of their functional activities and modulation in gene and protein expression. Human Mammary Epithelial Cells (HMECs) were used as a control. CM obtained from the preconditioned CVMSCs significantly altered the proliferation of MDA231 cells, yet no change in other phenotypes, such as adhesion, migration, and invasion, were observed at various concentrations and time points tested. However, the cellular component of preconditioned CVMSCs significantly inhibited several phenotypes of MDA231 cells, including proliferation, migration, and invasion. CVMSCs-treated MDA231 cells exhibited modulation in the expression of various genes involved in apoptosis, oncogenesis, and Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), explaining the changes in the invasive behavior of MDA231 cells. These studies reveal that preconditioned CVMSCs may make useful candidate in a stem cell-based therapy against cancer.

In Vitro Evidence of Differential Immunoregulatory Response between MDA-MB-231 and BT-474 Breast Cancer Cells Induced by Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Conditioned Medium

Inside tumors, cancer cells display several mechanisms to create an immunosuppressive environment. On the other hand, by migration processes, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can be recruited by different cancer tumor types from tissues as distant as bone marrow and contribute to tumor pathogenesis. However, the impact of the immunoregulatory role of MSCs associated with the aggressiveness of breast cancer cells by soluble molecules has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this in vitro work aimed to study the effect of the conditioned medium of human bone marrow-derived-MSCs (hBM-MSC-cm) on the immunoregulatory capability of MDA-MB-231 and BT-474 breast cancer cells. The hBM-MSC-cm on MDA-MB-231 cells induced the overexpression of TGF-β, IDO, and IL-10 genes. Additionally, immunoregulation assays of mononuclear cells (MNCs) in co-culture with MDA-MB-231 and hBM-MSC-cm decreased lymphocyte proliferation, and increased proteins IL-10, TGF-β, and IDO while also reducing TNF levels, shooting the proportion of regulatory T cells. Conversely, the hBM-MSC-cm did not affect the immunomodulatory capacity of BT-474 cells. Thus, a differential immunoregulatory effect was observed between both representative breast cancer cell lines from different origins. Thus, understanding the immune response in a broader tumor context could help to design therapeutic strategies based on the aggressive behavior of tumor cells.

Intraperitoneally Delivered Umbilical Cord Lining Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Improve Survival and Kidney Function in Murine Lupus via Myeloid Pathway Targeting

To determine the therapeutic efficacy of human umbilical cord lining mesenchymal stromal cells (CL-MSCs) (US Patent number 9,737,568) in lupus-prone MRL/lpr (Fas^lpr) mice and elucidate its working mechanisms. A total of 4 doses of (20-25) × 10⁶ cells/kg of CL-MSCs was given to 16-week-old female Fas^lpr mice by intraperitoneal injection. Three subsequent doses were given on 17 weeks, 18 weeks, and 22 weeks, respectively. Six-week-old Fas^lpr mice were used as disease pre-onset controls. Mice were monitored for 10 weeks. Mouse kidney function was evaluated by examining complement component 3 (C3) deposition, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), and lupus nephritis (LN) activity and chronicity. Working mechanisms were elucidated by flow cytometry, Luminex/ELISA (detection of anti-dsDNA and isotype antibodies), and RNA sequencing. CL-MSCs improved mice survival and kidney function by reducing LN activity and chronicity and lymphocyte infiltration over 10 weeks. CL-MSCs also reduced urinary ACR, renal complement C3 deposition, anti-dsDNA, and isotype antibodies that include IgA, IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b, and IgM. Immune and cytokine profiling demonstrated that CL-MSCs dampened inflammation by suppressing splenic neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages, reducing plasma IL-6, IL-12, and CXCL1 and stabilizing plasma interferon-γ and TNF-α. RNA sequencing further showed that CL-MSCs mediated immunomodulation via concerted action of pro-proinflammatory cytokine-induced chemokines and production of nitric oxide in macrophages. CL-MSCs may provide a novel myeloid (neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages)-targeting therapy for SLE.

Placental stem cells-derived exosomes stimulate cutaneous wound regeneration via engrailed-1 inhibition

Introduction: Skin wounds generally heal by scarring, a fibrotic process mediated by the Engrailed-1 (EN1) fibroblast lineage. Scar is detrimental to tissue structure and function, but perfect healing in clinical settings remains to be explored. Recent studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation can reduce scarring Methods: Here, we investigated the effects of placental MSCs (pMSCs) and exosomes derived from pMSCs (pMSC-exos) on wound healing using a full-thickness rat model. Results: The results showed that placental MSCs significantly accelerated the wound healing rate. Moreover, placental MSCs improved the quality of wound healing, including regenerating cutaneous appendages (hair follicles and sebaceous glands), decreasing collagen I and increasing collagen III, and improving collagen pattern (basket-wave-like) in the healed skin. placental MSCs treatment also increased the regeneration of blood vessels. Importantly, all these listed effects of placental MSCs were comparable to those of exosomes derived from pMSCs, but significantly stronger than those of adipose MSC-derived exosomes (aMSC-exos). Further studies showed that the effects of placental MSCs and exosomes derived from pMSCs on wound regeneration may be mainly achieved via the down-regulation of the Yes-associated protein signaling pathway, thus inhibiting the activation of EN1. Discussion: In summary, placental MSCs could effectively stimulate wound regeneration, and their effect could be achieved through their exosomes. This suggests that exosomes derived from pMSCs treatment could be used as a novel cell-free approach to induce wound regeneration in clinical settings.

T cell abnormalities in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease with a poor prognosis. To date, the pathogenesis of SSc is still unclear; moreover, its pathological conditions include microvascular damage, inflammation, and immune abnormalities. Different types of T cells may cause vasculitis and fibrosis in SSc by means of up- and down-regulation of cell surface molecules, abnormal release of pro-fibrotic or pro-inflammatory cytokines and direct contact with fibroblasts. These T cells, which are mainly CD4 + T cells, include the subtypes, T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, regulatory T Cells (Treg), interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing Th17 cells, CD4⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), and angiogenic T (Tang) cells. In addition to the Th1/Th2 imbalance, which has long been established, there is also a Th17/Treg imbalance in SSc. This imbalance may be closely related to the abnormal immune status of SSc. There is mounting evidence that suggest T cell abnormalities may be crucial to the pathogenesis of SSc. In terms of treatment, existing therapies that target T cells, such as immunosuppressive therapy (tacrolimus), Janus kinase(JAK) inhibitors, and biologics(abatacept), have had some success. Other non-drug therapies, including Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have extensive and complex mechanisms of action actually including T cell regulation. Based on the current evidence, we believe that the study of T cells will further our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc, and may lead to more targeted treatment optionsfor patients with SSc.

Significance of Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell in Placenta Development and Implications for Preeclampsia

The well-developed placentation is fundamental for the reproductive pregnancy while the defective placental development is the pathogenetic basis of preeclampsia (PE), a dangerous complication of pregnancy comprising the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) are a group of multipotent stem cells that own a potent capacity of differentiating into constitutive cells of vessel walls. Additionally, with the paracrine secretion of various factors, PMSCs inextricably link and interact with other component cells in the placenta, collectively improving the placental vasculature, uterine spiral artery remolding, and uteroplacental interface immunoregulation. Recent studies have further indicated that preeclamptic PMSCs, closely implicated in the abnormal crosstalk between other ambient cells, disturb the homeostasis and development in the placenta. Nevertheless, PMSCs transplantation or PMSCs exosome therapies tend to improve the placental vascular network and trophoblastic functions in the PE model, suggesting PMSCs may be a novel and putative therapeutic strategy for PE. Herein, we provide an overview of the multifaceted contributions of PMSCs in early placental development. Thereinto, the intensive interactions between PMSCs and other component cells in the placenta were particularly highlighted and further extended to the implications in the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of PE.

Highlights on Advancing Frontiers in Tissue Engineering

The field of tissue engineering continues to advance, sometimes in exponential leaps forward, but also sometimes at a rate that does not fulfill the promise that the field imagined a few decades ago. This review is in part a catalog of success in an effort to inform the process of innovation. Tissue engineering has recruited new technologies and developed new methods for engineering tissue constructs that can be used to mitigate or model disease states for study. Key to this antecedent statement is that the scientific effort must be anchored in the needs of a disease state and be working toward a functional product in regenerative medicine. It is this focus on the wildly important ideas coupled with partnered research efforts within both academia and industry that have shown most translational potential. The field continues to thrive and among the most important recent developments are the use of three-dimensional bioprinting, organ-on-a-chip, and induced pluripotent stem cell technologies that warrant special attention. Developments in the aforementioned areas as well as future directions are highlighted in this article. Although several early efforts have not come to fruition, there are good examples of commercial profitability that merit continued investment in tissue engineering. Impact statement Tissue engineering led to the development of new methods for regenerative medicine and disease models. Among the most important recent developments in tissue engineering are the use of three-dimensional bioprinting, organ-on-a-chip, and induced pluripotent stem cell technologies. These technologies and an understanding of them will have impact on the success of tissue engineering and its translation to regenerative medicine. Continued investment in tissue engineering will yield products and therapeutics, with both commercial importance and simultaneous disease mitigation.

Placental mesenchymal stem cells boost M2 alveolar over M1 bone marrow macrophages via IL-1β in Klebsiella-mediated acute respiratory distress syndrome

RATIONALE

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a lethal complication of severe bacterial pneumonia due to the inability to dampen overexuberant immune responses without compromising pathogen clearance. Both of these processes involve tissue-resident and bone marrow (BM)-recruited macrophage (MΦ) populations which can be polarised to have divergent functions. Surprisingly, despite the known immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), simultaneous interactions with tissue-resident and recruited BMMΦ populations are largely unexplored.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the therapeutic use of human placental MSCs (PMSCs) in severe bacterial pneumonia with elucidation of the roles of resident alveolar MΦs (AMΦs) and BMMΦs.

METHODS

We developed a lethal, murine pneumonia model using intratracheal infection of a clinically relevant Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) strain with subsequent intravenous human PMSC treatment. Pulmonary AMΦ and recruited BMMΦ analyses, histological evaluation, bacterial clearance and mice survival were assessed. To elucidate the role of resident AMΦs in improving outcome, we performed AMΦ depletion in the KP-pneumonia model with intratracheal clodronate pretreatment.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Human PMSC treatment decreased tissue injury and improved survival of severe KP-pneumonia mice by decreasing the presence and function of recruited M1 BMMΦ while preserving M2 AMΦs and enhancing their antibacterial functions. Interestingly, PMSC therapy failed to rescue AMΦ-depleted mice with KP pneumonia, and PMSC-secreted IL-1β was identified as critical in increasing AMΦ antibacterial activities to significantly improve pathogen clearance-especially bacteraemia-and survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Human PMSC treatment preferentially rescued resident M2 AMΦs over recruited M1 BMMΦs with overall M2 polarisation to improve KP-related ARDS survival.

Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Role in Oxidative Stress Associated with Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious medically important disorder of human pregnancy, which features de novo pregnancy-induced hypertension and proteinuria. The severe form of PE can progress to eclampsia, a convulsive, life-threatening condition. When placental growth and perfusion are abnormal, the placenta experiences oxidative stress and subsequently secretes abnormal amounts of certain pro-angiogenic factors (eg, PlGF) as well as anti-angiogenic factors (eg, sFlt-1) that enter the maternal circulation. The net effect is damage to the maternal vascular endothelium, which subsequently manifests as the clinical features of PE. Other than delivery of the fetus and placenta, curative treatments for PE have not yet been forthcoming, which reflects the complexity of the clinical syndrome. A major source of reactive oxygen species that contributes to the widespread maternal vascular endothelium damage is the PE-affected decidua. The role of decidua-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) in normotensive and pathological placenta development is poorly understood. The ability to respond to an environment of oxidative damage is a "universal property" of MSC but the biological mechanisms that MSC employ in response to oxidative stress are compromised in PE. In this review, we discuss how MSC respond to oxidative stress in normotensive and pathological conditions. We also consider the possibility of manipulating the oxidative stress response of abnormal MSC as a therapeutic strategy to treat preeclampsia.

The Molecular Mechanisms Through Which Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Myelin Regeneration

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating degenerative disease characterized by an immunological attack on the myelin sheath leading to demyelination and axon degeneration. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) and secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) have become attractive targets as therapies to treat neurodegenerative diseases such as MS due to their potent immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. The placenta is a unique source of MSCs (PMSCs), demonstrates "fetomaternal" tolerance during pregnancy, and serves as a novel source of MSCs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. PMSCs and PMSC-EVs have been shown to promote remyelination in animal models of MS, however, the molecular mechanisms by which modulation of autoimmunity and promotion of myelination occurs have not been well elucidated. The current review will address the molecular mechanisms by which PMSC-EVs can promote remyelination in MS.

Effect of Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Conditioned Media on an LPS-Induced Mouse Model of Preeclampsia

We tested the pro-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hPDMSCs)-derived conditioned media (CM) on a mouse model of preeclampsia (PE), a severe human pregnancy-related syndrome characterized by maternal hypertension, proteinuria, endothelial damage, inflammation, often associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR). At d11 of pregnancy, PE was induced in pregnant C57BL/6N mice by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intravenous injection. At d12, 300 μL of unconditioned media (control group) or 300 μL PDMSCs-CM (CM group) were injected. Maternal systolic blood pressure was measured from 9 to 18 days of pregnancy. Urine protein content were analyzed at days 12, 13, and 17 of pregnancy. At d19, mice were sacrificed. Number of fetuses, FGR, fetal reabsorption, and placental weight were evaluated. Placentae were analyzed for sFlt-1, IL-6, and TNF-α gene and protein expressions. No FGR and/or reabsorbed fetuses were delivered by PDMSCs-CM-treated PE mice, while five FGR fetuses were found in the control group accompanied by a lower placental weight. PDMSCs-CM injection significantly decreased maternal systolic blood pressure, proteinuria, sFlt-1, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in PE mice. Our data indicate that hPDMSCs-CM can reverse PE-like features during pregnancy, suggesting a therapeutic role for hPDMSCs for the treatment of preeclampsia.

Human placental mesenchymal stromal cells are ciliated and their ciliation is compromised in preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

The development of the human placenta is tightly coordinated by a multitude of placental cell types, including human chorionic villi mesenchymal stromal cells (hCV-MSCs). Defective hCV-MSCs have been reported in preeclampsia (PE), a gestational hypertensive disease characterized by maternal endothelial dysfunction and systemic inflammation. Our goal was to determine whether hCV-MSCs are ciliated and whether altered ciliation is responsible for defective hCV-MSCs in preeclamptic placentas, as the primary cilium is a hub for signal transduction, which is important for various cellular activities.

METHODS

In the present work, we collected placental tissues from different gestational stages and we isolated hCV-MSCs from 1st trimester, term control, and preeclamptic placentas. We studied their ciliation, functionality, and impact on trophoblastic cell lines and organoids formed from human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) and from the trophoblastic cell line JEG-3 with various cellular and molecular methods, including immunofluorescence staining, gene analysis, spheroid/organoid formation, motility, and cellular network formation assay. The statistical evaluation was performed using a Student's t test (two-tailed and paired or homoscedastic) or an unpaired Mann-Whitney U test (two-tailed).

RESULTS

The results show that primary cilia appeared abundantly in normal hCV-MSCs, especially in the early development of the placenta. Compared to control hCV-MSCs, the primary cilia were truncated, and there were fewer ciliated hCV-MSCs derived from preeclamptic placentas with impaired hedgehog signaling. Primary cilia are necessary for hCV-MSCs' proper signal transduction, motility, homing, and differentiation, which are impaired in preeclamptic hCV-MSCs. Moreover, hCV-MSCs derived from preeclamptic placentas are significantly less capable of promoting growth and differentiation of placental organoids, as well as cellular network formation.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the primary cilium is required for the functionality of hCV-MSCs and primary cilia are impaired in hCV-MSCs from preeclamptic placentas.

Perinatal derivatives: How to best characterize their multimodal functions in vitro. Part C: Inflammation, angiogenesis, and wound healing

Perinatal derivatives (PnD) are birth-associated tissues, such as placenta, umbilical cord, amniotic and chorionic membrane, and thereof-derived cells as well as secretomes. PnD play an increasing therapeutic role with beneficial effects on the treatment of various diseases. The aim of this review is to elucidate the modes of action of non-hematopoietic PnD on inflammation, angiogenesis and wound healing. We describe the source and type of PnD with a special focus on their effects on inflammation and immune response, on vascular function as well as on cutaneous and oral wound healing, which is a complex process that comprises hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation (including epithelialization, angiogenesis), and remodeling. We further evaluate the different in vitro assays currently used for assessing selected functional and therapeutic PnD properties. This review is a joint effort from the COST SPRINT Action (CA17116) with the intention to promote PnD into the clinics. It is part of a quadrinomial series on functional assays for validation of PnD, spanning biological functions, such as immunomodulation, anti-microbial/anti-cancer activities, anti-inflammation, wound healing, angiogenesis, and regeneration.

The Effect of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Derived From Endometriotic Lesions on Natural Killer Cell Function

Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease that presents with ectopic endometriotic lesions. Reduced immunosurveillance of these lesions has been proposed to be playing a role in the pathology of endometriosis. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are found in ectopic lesions and may decrease immunosurveillance. In the present study, we examined if MSC contribute to reduced immunosurveillance through their immunosuppressive effects on natural killer (NK) cells. Stromal cells from endometriotic ovarian cysts (ESC_cyst) and eutopic endometrium (ESC_endo) of women with endometriosis and their conditioned medium were used in co-cultures with allogeneic peripheral blood NK cells. Following culture, NK cells were examined phenotypically for their expression of activating, inhibitory, maturation, and adhesion receptors and co-receptors, as well as the degranulation (CD107a) marker and the immunostimulatory (interferon-γ) and immunosuppressive (transforming growth factor beta 1 and interleukin-10) cytokines. Moreover, NK cell cytotoxicity was examined using chromium 51 release killing assays. There were no differences between ESC_cyst and ESC_endo regarding their effects on NK cell cytotoxicity in both conditioned medium and direct co-culture experiments. Additionally, there were no differences between ESC_cyst and ESC_endo regarding their impact on NK cells’ phenotype and degranulation in both conditioned medium and direct co-culture experiments. Although there were no differences found for DNAX accessory molecule-1 (DNAM-1) and NKp44, we found that the expression of the NK cell ligand CD155 that binds DNAM-1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) that binds NKp44 was significantly less on ESC_cyst than on ESC_endo. These findings were not supported by the results that the expression of the known and unknown ligands on ESC_cyst for DNAM-1 and NKp44 using chimeric proteins was not significantly different compared to ESC_endo. In conclusion, the results suggest that ectopic MSC may not contribute to reduced immunosurveillance in endometriosis through their inhibitory effects on NK cells. This suggests that NK cell inhibition in the pelvic cavity of women with endometriosis develops due to other factors.

Decidua Parietalis Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Their Secretome Diminish the Oncogenic Properties of MDA231 Cells In Vitro

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to suppress tumor growth, inhibit angiogenesis, regulate cellular signaling, and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. We have earlier reported that placenta-derived decidua parietalis mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (DPMSCs) not only retained their functional characteristics in the cancer microenvironment but also exhibited increased expression of anti-apoptotic genes, demonstrating their anti-tumor properties in the tumor setting. In this study, we have further evaluated the effects of DPMSCs on the functional outcome of human breast cancer cell line MDA231. MDA231 cells were exposed to DPMSCs, and their biological functions, including adhesion, proliferation, migration, and invasion, were evaluated. In addition, genomic and proteomic modifications of the MDA231 cell line, in response to the DPMSCs, were also evaluated. MDA231 cells exhibited a significant reduction in proliferation, migration, and invasion potential after their treatment with DPMSCs. Furthermore, DPMSC treatment diminished the angiogenic potential of MDA231 cells. DPMSC treatment modulated the expression of various pro-apoptotic as well as oncogenes in MDA231 cells. The properties of DPMSCs to inhibit the invasive characteristics of MDA231 cells demonstrate that they may be a useful candidate in a stem-cell-based therapy against cancer.

Phenotypic and Functional Responses of Human Decidua Basalis Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells to Lipopolysaccharide of Gram-Negative Bacteria

Introduction

Human decidua basalis mesenchymal stem cells (DBMSCs) are potential therapeutics for the medication to cure inflammatory diseases, like atherosclerosis. The current study investigates the capacity of DBMSCs to stay alive and function in a harmful inflammatory environment induced by high levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods

DBMSCs were exposed to different levels of LPS, and their viability and functional responses (proliferation, adhesion, and migration) were examined. Furthermore, DBMSCs’ expression of 84 genes associated with their functional activities in the presence of LPS was investigated.

Results

Results indicated that LPS had no significant effect on DBMSCs’ adhesion, migration, and proliferation (24 h and 72 h) (p > 0.05). However, DBMSCs’ proliferation was significantly reduced at 10 µg/mL of LPS at 48 h (p < 0.05). In addition, inflammatory cytokines and receptors related to adhesion, proliferation, migration, and differentiation were significantly overexpressed when DBMSCs were treated with 10 µg/mL of LPS (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These results indicated that DBMSCs maintained their functional activities (proliferation, adhesion, and migration) in the presence of LPS as there was no variation between the treated DBMSCs and the control group. This study will lay the foundation for future preclinical and clinical studies to confirm the appropriateness of DBMSCs as a potential medication to cure inflammatory diseases, like atherosclerosis.

The Unique Properties of Placental Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Novel Source of Therapy for Congenital and Acquired Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devasting condition with no reliable treatment. Spina bifida is the most common cause of congenital SCI. Cell-based therapies using mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCS) have been largely utilized in SCI. Several clinical trials for acquired SCI use adult tissue-derived MSC sources, including bone-marrow, adipose, and umbilical cord tissues. The first stem/stromal cell clinical trial for spina bifida is currently underway (NCT04652908). The trial uses early gestational placental-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (PMSCs) during the fetal repair of myelomeningocele. PMSCs have been shown to exhibit unique neuroprotective, angiogenic, and antioxidant properties, all which are promising applications for SCI. This review will summarize the unique properties and current applications of PMSCs and discuss their therapeutic role for acquired SCI.

Impact of Injection Frequency of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells on Allogeneic Skin Graft Survival Outcomes in Mice

Previous studies indicated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit immunomodulatory properties in composite tissue allotransplantation. However, due to the high immunogenicity of skin, although the single administration of MSCs improves survival of the skin allotransplant, immune rejection is still inevitable. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether multiple administrations of MSCs would improve immune tolerance in the allogeneic skin graft, compared to that with a single administration in a mouse model. After full-thickness skin allotransplantation on the backs of the mice, the recipient mice were infused with phosphate-buffered saline and isogenic 1.5 × 10⁵/mL adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). ADSCs were transplanted into different mice according to the different injection frequencies such as single, once a week, and twice a week. Skin sections were taken on days 7 and 21 post-transplantation in all groups for gene expression and histological studies. ADSCs increased skin allograft survival compared to that in control mice (P < 0.05). Interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha messenger RNA levels were decreased, and the abundance of lymphocytes, based on immunohistochemistry, was also decreased in ADSC-infused mice (P < 0.05). However, among the different ADSC injection frequency groups, multiple ADSC infusion did not improve the survival rate and decreased proinflammatory cytokines and lymphocytes, compared to those with the single administration of ADSCs (P > 0.05). Conversely, the results with single administration were slightly better than those with multiple administrations. Our study demonstrated that ADSCs have the potential for immunomodulation in vivo. However, the results with multiple ADSC administration were not as good as those with single administration, which indicates the complexity of ADSCs in vivo and implying the need for adequate preclinical experimentation.

Human Placental Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal cells (pMSCs) inhibit agonist-induced platelet functions reducing atherosclerosis and thrombosis phenotypes

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells isolated from human term placenta (pMSCs) have potential to treat clinically manifested inflammatory diseases. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, and platelets play a contributory role towards its pathogenesis. During transplantation, MSCs interact with platelets and exert influence on their functional outcome. In this study, we investigated the consequences of interaction between pMSCs and platelets, and its impact on platelet-mediated atherosclerosis in vitro. Human platelets were treated with various types of pMSCs either directly or with their secretome, and their effect on agonist-mediated platelet activation and functional characteristics were evaluated. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used as control. The impact of pMSCs treatment on platelets was evaluated by the expression of activation markers and by platelet functional analysis. A subset of pMSCs reduced agonist-induced activation of platelets, both via direct contact and with secretome treatments. Decrease in platelet activation translated into diminished spreading, limited adhesion and minimized aggregation. In addition, pMSCs decreased oxidized LDL (ox-LDL)-inducedCD36-mediated platelet activation, establishing their protective role in atherosclerosis. Gene expression and protein analysis show that pMSCs express pro- and anti-thrombotic proteins, which might be responsible for the modulation of agonist-induced platelet functions. These data suggest the therapeutic benefits of pMSCs in atherosclerosis.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Drug-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is an important and increasing cause of acute kidney injury (AKI), which accounts for approximately 20% of hospitalized patients. Previous reviews studies on immunity and AKI focused mainly on ischemia-reperfusion (IR), whereas no systematic review addressing drug-induced AKI and its related immune mechanisms is available. Recent studies have provided a deeper understanding on the mechanisms of drug-induced AKI, among which acute tubular interstitial injury induced by the breakdown of innate immunity was reported to play an important role. Emerging research on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has revealed its potential as treatment for drug-induced AKI. MSCs can inhibit kidney damage by regulating the innate immune balance, promoting kidney repair, and preventing kidney fibrosis. However, it is important to note that there are various sources of MSCs, which impacts on the immunomodulatory ability of the cells. This review aims to address the immune pathogenesis of drug-induced AKI versus that of IR-induced AKI, and to explore the immunomodulatory effects and therapeutic potential of MSCs for drug-induced AKI.

Placenta: A gold mine for translational research and regenerative medicine

Stem cell therapy has gained much impetus in regenerative medicine due to some of the encouraging results obtained in the laboratory as well as in translational/clinical studies. Although stem cells are of various types and their therapeutic potential has been documented in several studies, mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have an edge, as in addition to being multipotent, these cells are easy to obtain and expand, pose fewer ethical issues, and possess immense regenerative potential when used in a scientifically correct manner. Currently, MSCs are being sourced from various tissues such as bone marrow, cord, cord blood, adipose tissue, dental tissue, etc., and, quite often, the choice depends on the availability of the source. One such rich source of tissue suitable for obtaining good quality MSCs in large numbers is the placenta obtained in a full-term delivery leading to a healthy child's birth. Several studies have demonstrated the regenerative potential of human placenta-derived MSCs (hPMSC), and most show that these MSCs possess comparable, in some instances, even better, therapeutic potential as that shown by human bone marrow-derived (hBMSC) or human umbilical cord-derived (hUC-MSC) MSCs. The placenta can be easily sourced from the OB/GYN department of any hospital, and if its derivatives such as hPMSC or their EVs are produced under GMP conditions, it could serve as a gold mine for translational/clinical research. Here, we have reviewed recent studies revealing the therapeutic potential of hPMSC and their extracellular vesicles (EVs) published over the past three years.

The Application of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Liver Diseases: Mechanism, Efficacy, and Safety Issues

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a novel treatment for liver diseases due to the roles of MSCs in regeneration, fibrosis inhibition and immune regulation. However, the mechanisms are still not completely understood. Despite the significant efficacy of MSC therapy in animal models and preliminary clinical trials, issues remain. The efficacy and safety of MSC-based therapy in the treatment of liver diseases remains a challenging issue that requires more investigation. This article reviews recent studies on the mechanisms of MSCs in liver diseases and the associated challenges and suggests potential future applications.

Human placental mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate liver fibrosis in mice by upregulation of Caveolin1 in hepatic stellate cells

Background

Liver fibrosis (LF) is a common pathological process characterized by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and accumulation of extracellular matrix. Severe LF causes cirrhosis and even liver failure, a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Transplantation of human placental mesenchymal stem cells (hPMSCs) has been considered as an alternative therapy. However, the underlying mechanisms and the appropriate time window for hPMSC transplantation are not well understood.

Methods

We established mouse models of CCl₄-injured LF and administered hPMSCs at different stages of LF once a week for 2 weeks. The therapeutic effect of hPMSCs on LF was investigated, according to histopathological and blood biochemical analyses. In vitro, the effect of hPMSCs and the secretomes of hPMSCs on the inhibition of activated HSCs was assessed. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis, real-time PCR array, and western blot were performed to explore possible signaling pathways involved in treatment of LF with hPMSCs.

Results

hPMSC treatment notably alleviates experimental hepatic fibrosis, restores liver function, and inhibits inflammation. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of hPMSCs against mild-to-moderate LF was significantly greater than against severe LF. In vitro, we observed that the hPMSCs as well as the secretomes of hPMSCs were able to decrease the activation of HSCs. Mechanistic dissection studies showed that hPMSC treatment downregulated the expression of fibrosis-related genes, and this was accompanied by the upregulation of Caveolin-1 (Cav1) (p < 0.001). This suggested that the amelioration of LF occurred partly due to the restoration of Cav1 expression in activated HSCs. Upregulation of Cav1 can inhibit the TGF-/Smad signaling pathway, mainly by reducing Smad2 phosphorylation, resulting in the inhibition of activated HSCs, whereas this effect could be abated if Cav1 was silenced in advance by siRNAs.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that hPMSCs could provide multifaceted therapeutic benefits for the treatment of LF, and the TGF-/Cav1 pathway might act as a therapeutic target for hPMSCs in the treatment of LF.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02358-x.

Analysis of Key Distinct Biological Characteristics of Human Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Individual Heterogeneity Attributing to Donors

For potential clinical applications in the future, we investigated the distinct biological features of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from different origin areas of human placenta and individual heterogeneity among different donors. Chorionic plate MSCs (CP-MSCs), amniotic membrane MSCs (AM-MSCs), and decidual plate MSCs (DP-MSCs) were isolated from 5 human placentae and were analyzed in terms of main features of MSCs including surface marker profile, growth, differentiation potential, immune regulation capability, and tubulin acetylation (Ac-tubulin). The expression profile of surface markers in the 3 types of MSCs derived from the 5 donors was relatively stable. Heterogeneity was found in growth, differentiation potential, and immune regulation among MSCs according to the different areas of isolation and different donors. CP-MSCs and AM-MSCs derived from the placentae of donors 1-3 had a higher osteogenic differentiation potential than the corresponding DP-MSCs, but those derived from the placentae of donors 4 and 5 had a markedly lower osteogenic differentiation potential than DP-MSCs. All CP-MSCs derived from donors 1-3 had the highest adipogenic differentiation potential, but CP-MSCs derived from donors 4 and 5 did not show strong capability of adipogenic differentiation. CP-MSCs markedly inhibited the proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) induced by phytohemagglutinin, whereas AM- and DP-MSCs did not. All MSCs decreased the proportion of CD3+/CD8-/IFN-γ+ Th1 and CD3+/CD8-/IL17+ Th17 cells, but increased the proportion of Treg cells in PBMCs, with individual differences among the 5 donors. DP-MSCs from donors 1 and 2 had higher levels of Ac-tubulin compared with CP- and AM-MSCs. However, the levels of Ac-tubulin in AM-MSCs from donors 3 and 5 were higher than those of the other 2 types of MSCs. Our results revealed that there was tissue-specific heterogeneity among the 3 types of MSCs from different origin tissues of placenta and individual heterogeneity among donors. In future, the pre-selected placenta-derived MSCs with specific biological advantages may improve the curative effect of cell therapy in different situations.

Mesenchymal stem cell exosome-derived miR-223 alleviates acute graft-versus-host disease via reducing the migration of donor T cells

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been utilized in treating acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) as they show strong immunosuppressive capacity through the release of various mediators, including immunosuppressive molecules, growth factors, chemokines, and exosomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) derived from MSC exosomes (MSCs-Exo) play a critical role in the regulation of immune responses. However, the function of miRNAs in treating aGvHD remains unknown. Here, we performed expression profiling of exosome-miRNAs from human umbilical cord MSCs (huc-MSCs) and murine compact bone MSCs (mb-MSCs) to investigate their immunoregulation effects in aGvHD.

Methods

Huc-MSCs-Exo and mb-MSCs-Exo were isolated and constructed MSCs-Exo-derived miRNA expression profiling using high-throughput sequencing. High expression of miR-223 was identified in both kinds of MSCs-Exo by bioinformatics analysis and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). In vitro cell crawling assay, transmigration assay and adhesion assay were subsequently applied to investigate the regulation of miR-223 on T cells. MiR-223 target gene was analyzed by western blot, luciferase analysis, and qPCR. Moreover, murine aGvHD model was established by infusing splenocytes and bone marrow nuclear cells from C57BL/6j mice (H-2Kb) into BALB/c recipient mice (H-2Kd). For therapeutic effect, MSCs or miR-223 Agomir were injected via tail vein. The general conditions of the mice in each group were monitored. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to detect pathological changes of mice spleen, liver, and intestine. Mechanistically, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to evaluate donor T cell migration, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the expression of serum inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17.

Results

High-throughput sequencing revealed high expression of miR-223 in huc-MSCs-Exo and mb-MSCs-Exo. MiR-223 could restrain adhesion and migration of T cells by inhibiting ICAM-1 expression in mouse lymphatic endothelial cells. MiR-223Agomir infusion attenuated aGvHD clinical symptoms, reduced the donor T cell infiltration into the spleen, liver, and intestine, and decreased inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17.

Conclusion

MSCs-Exo-derived miR-223 could attenuate aGvHD in mice through decreasing donor T cell migration. Our results unveil a new role of MSCs-Exo containing miR-223 in the treatment of aGvHD.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02159-2.

Extracellular Vesicles From Perinatal Cells for Anti-inflammatory Therapy

Perinatal cells, including cells from placenta, fetal annexes (amniotic and chorionic membranes), umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid display intrinsic immunological properties which very likely contribute to the development and growth of a semiallogeneic fetus during pregnancy. Many studies have shown that perinatal cells can inhibit the activation and modulate the functions of various inflammatory cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems, including macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and T and B lymphocytes. These immunological properties, along with their easy availability and lack of ethical concerns, make perinatal cells very useful/promising in regenerative medicine. In recent years, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have gained great interest as a new therapeutic tool in regenerative medicine being a cell-free product potentially capable, thanks to the growth factors, miRNA and other bioactive molecules they convey, of modulating the inflammatory microenvironment thus favoring tissue regeneration. The immunomodulatory actions of perinatal cells have been suggested to be mediated by still not fully identified factors (secretoma) secreted either as soluble proteins/cytokines or entrapped in EVs. In this review, we will discuss how perinatal derived EVs may contribute toward the modulation of the immune response in various inflammatory pathologies (acute and chronic) by directly targeting different elements of the inflammatory microenvironment, ultimately leading to the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues.

The therapeutic applications of mesenchymal stromal cells from human perinatal tissues in autoimmune diseases

The autoimmune diseases are characterized by overactivation of immune cells, chronic inflammation, and immune response to self-antigens, leading to the damage and dysfunction of multiple organs. Patients still do not receive desired clinical outcomes while suffer from various adverse effects imparted by current therapies. The therapeutic strategies based on mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation have become the promising approach for the treatment of autoimmune diseases due to the immunomodulation property of MSCs. MSCs derived from perinatal tissues are collectively known as perinatal MSCs (PMSCs), which can be obtained via painless procedures from donors with lower risk of being contaminated by viruses than those MSCs from adult tissue sources. Therefore, PMSCs may be the ideal cell source for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This article summarizes recent progress and possible mechanisms of PMSCs in treating autoimmune diseases in animal experiments and clinical studies. This review also presents existing challenges and proposes solutions, which may provide new hints on PMSC transplantation as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Treatment of COVID-19 Pneumonia: the Case for Placenta-derived Cell Therapy

Nearly 500'000 fatalities due to COVID-19 have been reported globally and the death toll is still rising. Most deaths are due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), as a result of an excessive immune response and a cytokine storm elicited by severe SARS-CoV-2 lung infection, rather than by a direct cytopathic effect of the virus. In the most severe forms of the disease therapies should aim primarily at dampening the uncontrolled inflammatory/immune response responsible for most fatalities. Pharmacological agents - antiviral and anti-inflammatory molecules - have not been able so far to achieve compelling results for the control of severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Cells derived from the placenta and/or fetal membranes, in particular amniotic epithelial cells (AEC) and decidual stromal cells (DSC), have established, well-characterized, potent anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties that make them attractive candidates for a cell-based therapy of COVID19 pneumonia. Placenta-derived cells are easy to procure from a perennial source and pose minimal ethical issues for their utilization. In view of the existing clinical evidence for the innocuousness and efficiency of systemic administration of DSCs or AECs in similar conditions, we advocate for the initiation of clinical trials using this strategy in the treatment of severe COVID-19 disease.

Resident vs nonresident multipotent mesenchymal stromal cell interactions with B lymphocytes result in disparate outcomes

Multipotent human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from multiple organs including the bone marrow (BM) and placenta harbor clinically relevant immunomodulation best demonstrated toward T lymphocytes. Surprisingly, there is limited knowledge on interactions with B lymphocytes, which originate from the BM where there is a resident MSC. With increasing data demonstrating MSC tissue‐specific propensities impacting therapeutic outcome, we therefore investigated the interactions of BM‐MSCs—its resident and “niche” MSC—and placental MSCs (P‐MSCs), another source of MSCs with well‐characterized immunomodulatory properties, on the global functional outcomes of pan‐peripheral B cell populations. We found that P‐MSCs but not BM‐MSCs significantly inhibit proliferation and further differentiation of stimulated human peripheral B populations in vitro. Moreover, although BM‐MSCs preserve multiple IL‐10‐producing regulatory B cell (Breg) subsets, P‐MSCs significantly increase all subsets. To corroborate these in vitro findings in vivo, we used a mouse model of B‐cell activation and found that adoptive transfer of P‐MSCs but not BM‐MSCs significantly decreased activated B220⁺ B cells. Moreover, adoptive transfer of P‐MSCs but not BM‐MSCs significantly decreased the overall B220⁺ B‐cell proliferation and further differentiation, similar to the in vitro findings. P‐MSCs also increased two populations of IL‐10‐producing murine Bregs more strongly than BM‐MSCs. Transcriptome analyses demonstrated multifactorial differences between BM‐ and P‐MSCs in the profile of relevant factors involved in B lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation. Our results highlight the divergent outcomes of tissue‐specific MSCs interactions with peripheral B cells, and demonstrate the importance of understanding tissue‐specific differences to achieve more efficacious outcome with MSC therapy.

Mesenchymal stromal cells for systemic sclerosis treatment

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare chronic autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune responses, and progressive fibrosis. SSc remains an orphan disease, with high morbity and mortality in SSc patients. The mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) demonstrate in vitro and in vivo pro-angiogenic, immuno-suppressive, and anti-fibrotic properties and appear as a promising stem cell therapy type, that may target the key pathological features of SSc disease. This review aims to summarize acquired knowledge in the field of :1) MSC definition and in vitro and in vivo functional properties, which vary according to the donor type (allogeneic or autologous), the tissue sources (bone marrow, adipose tissue or umbilical cord) or inflammatory micro-environment in the recipient; 2) preclinical studies in various SSc animal models , which showed reduction in skin and lung fibrosis after MSC infusion; 3) first clinical trials in human, with safety and early efficacy results reported in SSc patients or currently tested in several ongoing clinical trials.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: A Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and potential life-threatening disease in patients admitted to hospital, affecting 10%-15% of all hospitalizations and around 50% of patients in the intensive care unit. Severe, recurrent, and uncontrolled AKI may progress to chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. AKI thus requires more efficient, specific therapies, rather than just supportive therapy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered to be promising cells for cellular therapy because of their ease of harvesting, low immunogenicity, and ability to expand in vitro. Recent research indicated that the main therapeutic effects of MSCs were mediated by MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs). Furthermore, compared with MSCs, MSC-EVs have lower immunogenicity, easier storage, no tumorigenesis, and the potential to be artificially modified. We reviewed the therapeutic mechanism of MSCs and MSC-EVs in AKI, and considered recent research on how to improve the efficacy of MSC-EVs in AKI. We also summarized and analyzed the potential and limitations of EVs for the treatment of AKI to provide ideas for future clinical trials and the clinical application of MSC-EVs in AKI.

Current Status and Future Prospects of Perinatal Stem Cells

The placenta is a temporary organ that is discarded after birth and is one of the most promising sources of various cells and tissues for use in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, both in experimental and clinical settings. The placenta has unique, intrinsic features because it plays many roles during gestation: it is formed by cells from two individuals (mother and fetus), contributes to the development and growth of an allogeneic fetus, and has two independent and interacting circulatory systems. Different stem and progenitor cell types can be isolated from the different perinatal tissues making them particularly interesting candidates for use in cell therapy and regenerative medicine. The primary source of perinatal stem cells is cord blood. Cord blood has been a well-known source of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells since 1974. Biobanked cord blood has been used to treat different hematological and immunological disorders for over 30 years. Other perinatal tissues that are routinely discarded as medical waste contain non-hematopoietic cells with potential therapeutic value. Indeed, in advanced perinatal cell therapy trials, mesenchymal stromal cells are the most commonly used. Here, we review one by one the different perinatal tissues and the different perinatal stem cells isolated with their phenotypical characteristics and the preclinical uses of these cells in numerous pathologies. An overview of clinical applications of perinatal derived cells is also described with special emphasis on the clinical trials being carried out to treat COVID19 pneumonia. Furthermore, we describe the use of new technologies in the field of perinatal stem cells and the future directions and challenges of this fascinating and rapidly progressing field of perinatal cells and regenerative medicine.

Treatment of traumatic optic neuropathy using human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells in Asian patients

Aim: To assess the safety and feasibility of subtenon transplantation of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hPMSCs) in Asian patients with traumatic optic neuropathy. Materials & methods: The survival of retinal ganglion cells in the rat retina was evaluated by monitoring the expression of Tuj1 and Gfap after optic nerve compression. Based on the preclinical data, we conducted a Phase I, open label, single center, nonrandomized clinical trial in four Asian traumatic optic neuropathy patients. The safety and ophthalmologic changes were evaluated. Results: The levels of Tuj1 and Gfap expression were significantly increased in the hPMSC treatment group compared with the sham group, suggesting a protective effect of hPMSCs on the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells. There was no evidence of adverse proliferation, tumorigenicity, severe inflammation or other serious issues during the 12-month follow-up period. Visual acuity improved in all four patients. Conclusion: The results suggested that hPMSCs are safe and have potential utility in regenerative medicine. Clinical trial registration number: 20150196587 (Korean FDA), 2015-07-123-054 (IRB).

Immunosuppressive Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells-derived Exosomes

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have become important seed cells in therapy because of their immunosuppressive function and anti-inflammatory effects. MSCs exert immunosuppressive effects through direct contact or paracrine action. The paracrine functions of MSCs are at least partially mediated by exosomes, which are membrane vesicles, carrying abundant proteins, nucleic acids and other active molecules. MSC-exos have heterogeneity. The exosomes from different donors, tissues generations of MSCs carry different bioactive molecules. These cargos are transferred to recipient cells by endocytosis or binding to proteins on the receptor surface to mediate intercellular communication between different cell types and affect the functions of the recipient cells. Exosomes play an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Exosomes derived from MSCs (MSC-exos) carry immunomodulatory effectors or transmit active signal molecules to regulate the biological activities of immune cells and thus mediating immune suppression, especially on macrophages and T cells. Mitochondria and autophagy-related pathways are also associated with MSC-exos immunosuppressive effects. Graphical Abstract.

Off-the-shelf mesenchymal stem cells from human umbilical cord tissue can significantly improve symptoms in COVID-19 patients: An analysis of evidential relations

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has affected more than 200 countries worldwide. This disease has hugely affected healthcare systems as well as the economy to an extent never seen before. To date, COVID-19 infection has led to about 165000 deaths in 150 countries. At present, there is no specific drug or efficient treatment for this disease. In this analysis based on evidential relationships of the biological characteristics of MSCs, especially umbilical cord (UC)-derived MSCs as well as the first clinical trial using MSCs for COVID-19 treatment, we discuss the use of UC-MSCs to improve the symptoms of COVID-19 in patients.

The effect of aging on the biological and immunological characteristics of periodontal ligament stem cells

Background

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) have many applications in the field of cytotherapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. However, the effect of age on the biological and immunological characteristics of PDLSCs remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we compared PDLSCs isolated from young and adult individuals. PDLSC proliferation was analyzed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining, and apoptosis level was detected by Annexin V-PE/7-ADD staining. PDLSC osteogenic/adipogenic/chondrogenic differentiation potentials were assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alizarin Red, Oil Red O, Alcian Blue staining, and related quantitative analysis. PDLSC immunosuppressive capacity was determined by EdU and Annexin V-PE/7-ADD staining. To explore its underlying mechanism, microarray, quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and western blot analyses were performed to detect differentially expressed genes and proteins in PDLSCs.

Results

Our results demonstrated that with aging, the proliferation and osteogenic/adipogenic/chondrogenic differentiation potential of PDLSCs decreased, whereas apoptosis of PDLSCs increased. Moreover, the immunosuppressive ability of PDLSCs decreased with aging. Compared with PDLSCs from young subjects, analysis of mRNA expression revealed an upregulation of CCND3 and RC3H2, and a downregulation of Runx2, ALP, COL1A1, PPARγ2, CXCL12, FKBP1A, FKBP1B, NCSTN, P2RX7, PPP3CB, RIPK2, SLC11A1, and TP53 in those from adult individuals. Furthermore, protein expression levels of Runx2, ALP, COL1A1, and PPARγ2 in the adult group were decreased, whereas that of CCND3 increased.

Conclusions

Taken together, aging influences the biological and immunological characteristics of PDLSCs, and thus, it is more appropriate to utilize PDLSCs from young individuals for tissue regeneration, post-aging treatment, and allotransplantation.