1
|
Aprile D, Patrone D, Peluso G, Galderisi U. Multipotent/pluripotent stem cell populations in stromal tissues and peripheral blood: exploring diversity, potential, and therapeutic applications. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:139. [PMID: 38735988 PMCID: PMC11089765 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03752-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of "stemness" incorporates the molecular mechanisms that regulate the unlimited self-regenerative potential typical of undifferentiated primitive cells. These cells possess the unique ability to navigate the cell cycle, transitioning in and out of the quiescent G0 phase, and hold the capacity to generate diverse cell phenotypes. Stem cells, as undifferentiated precursors endow with extraordinary regenerative capabilities, exhibit a heterogeneous and tissue-specific distribution throughout the human body. The identification and characterization of distinct stem cell populations across various tissues have revolutionized our understanding of tissue homeostasis and regeneration. From the hematopoietic to the nervous and musculoskeletal systems, the presence of tissue-specific stem cells underlines the complex adaptability of multicellular organisms. Recent investigations have revealed a diverse cohort of non-hematopoietic stem cells (non-HSC), primarily within bone marrow and other stromal tissue, alongside established hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). Among these non-HSC, a rare subset exhibits pluripotent characteristics. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the remarkable differentiation potential of these putative stem cells, known by various names including multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPC), marrow-isolated adult multilineage inducible cells (MIAMI), small blood stem cells (SBSC), very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), and multilineage differentiating stress enduring cells (MUSE). The diverse nomenclatures assigned to these primitive stem cell populations may arise from different origins or varied experimental methodologies. This review aims to present a comprehensive comparison of various subpopulations of multipotent/pluripotent stem cells derived from stromal tissues. By analysing isolation techniques and surface marker expression associated with these populations, we aim to delineate the similarities and distinctions among stromal tissue-derived stem cells. Understanding the nuances of these tissue-specific stem cells is critical for unlocking their therapeutic potential and advancing regenerative medicine. The future of stem cells research should prioritize the standardization of methodologies and collaborative investigations in shared laboratory environments. This approach could mitigate variability in research outcomes and foster scientific partnerships to fully exploit the therapeutic potential of pluripotent stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Aprile
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli Campania University, Naples, Italy
| | - Deanira Patrone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli Campania University, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Peluso
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Saint Camillus International, University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Galderisi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli Campania University, Naples, Italy.
- Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKÖK), Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
- Center for Biotechnology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
A Simplified and Effective Approach for the Isolation of Small Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived from Human Peripheral Blood. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030787. [PMID: 36979766 PMCID: PMC10045871 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells are key players in regenerative medicine. Embryonic pluripotent stem cells, despite their significant advantages, are associated with limitations such as their inadequate availability and the ethical dilemmas in their isolation and clinical use. The discovery of very small embryonic-like (VSEL) stem cells addressed the aforementioned limitations, but their isolation technique remains a challenge due to their small cell size and their efficiency in isolation. Here, we report a simplified and effective approach for the isolation of small pluripotent stem cells derived from human peripheral blood. Our approach results in a high yield of small blood stem cell (SBSC) population, which expresses pluripotent embryonic markers (e.g., Nanog, SSEA-3) and the Yamanaka factors. Further, a fraction of SBSCs also co-express hematopoietic markers (e.g., CD45 and CD90) and/or mesenchymal markers (e.g., CD29, CD105 and PTH1R), suggesting a mixed stem cell population. Finally, quantitative proteomic profiling reveals that SBSCs contain various stem cell markers (CD9, ITGA6, MAPK1, MTHFD1, STAT3, HSPB1, HSPA4), and Transcription reg complex factors (e.g., STAT5B, PDLIM1, ANXA2, ATF6, CAMK1). In conclusion, we present a novel, simplified and effective isolating process that yields an abundant population of small-sized cells with characteristics of pluripotency from human peripheral blood.
Collapse
|
3
|
Bhartiya D, Sharma D. VSELs and OSCs together sustain oogenesis in adult ovaries and their dysfunction results in age-related senescence, PCOS, POI and cancer. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:29. [PMID: 36726163 PMCID: PMC9890840 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01093-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) have failed to detect stem cells in adult ovaries. We have maintained that two populations of ovarian stem cells including pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and tissue-committed 'progenitors' termed ovarian stem cells (OSCs) can easily be detected in Hematoxylin and Eosin-stained ovary surface epithelial (OSE) cells smears prepared from both mice and human ovaries. Most likely the stem cells never get subjected to scRNAseq since they pellet down only by centrifuging cells suspension at 1000 g while cells for scRNAseq were invariably prepared by centrifuging at 200-400 g. A recent article provided further explanation for the failure of scRNAseq to detect ovarian stem cells. Extensive reanalysis of data (generated by scRNAseq) using an advanced software successfully detected OSCs and meiotic markers supporting neo-oogenesis in adult human ovaries. But this article remained critical on the biological relevance of VSELs and their relationship with OSCs. By carefully studying the OSE cells smears (which hold VSELs, OSCs and germ cell nests GCNs), prepared by partial trypsin digestion of intact mice ovaries during different stages of estrus cycle, we have successfully delineated novel functions of VSELs/OSCs in vivo under physiological conditions. VSELs undergo asymmetrical divisions to self-renew and give rise to slightly bigger OSCs which in turn undergo symmetrical divisions and clonal expansion to form GCNs, regular neo-oogenesis and follicle assembly. GCNs have been earlier described in fetal ovaries and during OSE cells culture (from adult ovaries) in response to FSH treatment. Dysfunction of VSELs/OSCs (which express ERα, ERβ, FSHR) due to neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption results in ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovaries. VSELs have also been implicated in ovarian cancer. Age-related ovarian senescence/menopause is also due to dysfunction and blocked differentiation of VSELs/OSCs. These novel findings in vivo along with abundant in vitro and lineage tracing studies data in published literature provides huge scope for further research, offers novel avenues to manage ovarian pathologies and calls for re-writing of textbooks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
- Present address: Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Sun Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai, 400 013, India.
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Autologous Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy in Infertility: New Strategies and Future Perspectives. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010108. [PMID: 36671799 PMCID: PMC9855776 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Infertility could be associated with a few factors including problems with physical and mental health, hormonal imbalances, lifestyles, and genetic factors. Given that there is a concern about the rise of infertility globally, increased focus has been given to its treatment for the last several decades. Traditional assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been the prime option for many years in solving various cases of infertility; however, it contains significant risks and does not solve the fundamental problem of infertility such as genetic disorders. Attention toward the utilization of MSCs has been widely regarded as a promising option in the development of stem-cell-based infertility treatments. This narrative review briefly presents the challenges in the current ART treatment of infertility and the various potential applications of autologous MSCs in the treatment of these reproductive diseases.
Collapse
|
5
|
Bhartiya D, Jha N, Tripathi A, Tripathi A. Very small embryonic-like stem cells have the potential to win the three-front war on tissue damage, cancer, and aging. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1061022. [PMID: 36684436 PMCID: PMC9846763 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1061022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of dedifferentiation and reprogramming of mature somatic cells holds much promise for the three-front "war" against tissue damage, cancer, and aging. It was hoped that reprogramming human somatic cells into the induced pluripotent state, along with the use of embryonic stem cells, would transform regenerative medicine. However, despite global efforts, clinical applications remain a distant dream, due to associated factors such as genomic instability, tumorigenicity, immunogenicity, and heterogeneity. Meanwhile, the expression of embryonic (pluripotent) markers in multiple cancers has baffled the scientific community, and it has been suggested that somatic cells dedifferentiate and "reprogram" into the pluripotent state in vivo to initiate cancer. It has also been suggested that aging can be reversed by partial reprogramming in vivo. However, better methods are needed; using vectors or Yamanaka factors in vivo, for example, is dangerous, and many potential anti-aging therapies carry the same risks as those using induced pluripotent cells, as described above. The present perspective examines the potential of endogenous, pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs). These cells are naturally present in multiple tissues; they routinely replace diseased tissue and ensure regeneration to maintain life-long homeostasis, and they have the ability to differentiate into adult counterparts. Recent evidence suggests that cancers initiate due to the selective expansion of epigenetically altered VSELs and their blocked differentiation. Furthermore, VSEL numbers have been directly linked to lifespan in studies of long- and short-lived transgenic mice, and VSEL dysfunction has been found in the ovaries of aged mice. To conclude, a greater interest in VSELs, with their potential to address all three fronts of this war, could be the "light at the end of the tunnel."
Collapse
|
6
|
Proteomic Analysis of Murine Bone Marrow Very Small Embryonic-like Stem Cells at Steady-State Conditions and after In Vivo Stimulation by Nicotinamide and Follicle-Stimulating Factor Reflects their Germ-Lineage Origin and Multi Germ Layer Differentiation Potential. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:120-132. [PMID: 35986128 PMCID: PMC9823037 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10445-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are a dormant population of development early stem cells deposited in adult tissues that as demonstrated contribute to tissue/organ repair and regeneration. We postulated developmental relationship of these cells to migrating primordial germ cells (PGCs) and explained the quiescent state of these cells by the erasure of differently methylated regions (DMRs) at some of the paternally imprinted genes involved in embryogenesis. Recently, we reported that VSELs began to proliferate and expand in vivo in murine bone marrow (BM) after exposure to nicotinamide (NAM) and selected pituitary and gonadal sex hormones. In the current report, we performed proteomic analysis of VSELs purified from murine bone marrow (BM) after repeated injections of NAM + Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) that in our previous studies turned out to be an effective combination to expand these cells. By employing the Gene Ontology (GO) resources, we have performed a combination of standard GO annotations (GO-CAM) to produce a network between BM steady-state conditions VSELs (SSC-VSELS) and FSH + NAM expanded VSELs (FSH + NAM VSELs). We have identified several GO biological processes regulating development, organogenesis, gene expression, signal transduction, Wnt signaling, insulin signaling, cytoskeleton organization, cell adhesion, inhibiting apoptosis, responses to extra- and intracellular stimuli, protein transport and stabilization, protein phosphorylation and ubiquitination, DNA repair, immune response, and regulation of circadian rhythm. We report that VSELs express a unique panel of proteins that only partially overlapped with the proteome of BM - derived hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and hematopoietic mononuclear cells (MNCs) and respond to FSH + NAM stimulation by expressing proteins involved in the development of all three germ layers. Thus, our current data supports further germ-lineage origin and multi germ layer differentiation potential of these cells.
Collapse
|
7
|
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals different signatures of mesenchymal stromal cell pluripotent-like and multipotent populations. iScience 2022; 25:105395. [PMID: 36339265 PMCID: PMC9633745 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic stem cells are advantageous research targets for understanding the properties required to maintain stemness. Human bone marrow-mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) were separated into pluripotent-like SSEA-3(+) Muse cells (Muse-MSCs) and multipotent SSEA-3(−) MSCs (MSCs) and were subjected to single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. Compared with MSCs, Muse-MSCs exhibited higher expression levels of the p53 repressor MDM2; signal acceptance-related genes EGF, VEGF, PDGF, WNT, TGFB, INHB, and CSF; ribosomal protein; and glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. Conversely, MSCs had higher expression levels of FGF and ANGPT; Rho family and caveola-related genes; amino acid and cofactor metabolism; MHC class I/II, and lysosomal enzyme genes than Muse-MSCs. Unsupervised clustering further divided Muse-MSCs into two clusters stratified by the expression of cell cycle-related genes, and MSCs into three clusters stratified by the expression of cell cycle-, cytoskeleton-, and extracellular matrix-related genes. This study evaluating the differentiation ability of BM-MSC subpopulations provides intriguing insights for understanding stemness. MSCs were separated into pluripotent-like Muse-MSCs and multipotent MSCs Gene expressions of Muse-MSCs and MSCs were analyzed by single-cell RNA sequencing p53 suppressor, ribosomal protein, and energy metabolism were higher in Muse-MSCs Genes related to the cytoskeleton, amino acid metabolism, and MHC were higher in MSCs
Collapse
|
8
|
Zaiken MC, Flynn R, Paz KG, Rhee SY, Jin S, Mohamed FA, Saha A, Thangavelu G, Park PMC, Hemming ML, Sage PT, Sharpe AH, DuPage M, Bluestone JA, Panoskaltsis-Mortari A, Cutler CS, Koreth J, Antin JH, Soiffer RJ, Ritz J, Luznik L, Maillard I, Hill GR, MacDonald KPA, Munn DH, Serody JS, Murphy WJ, Kean LS, Zhang Y, Bradner JE, Qi J, Blazar BR. BET-bromodomain and EZH2 inhibitor-treated chronic GVHD mice have blunted germinal centers with distinct transcriptomes. Blood 2022; 139:2983-2997. [PMID: 35226736 PMCID: PMC9101246 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021014557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the field, chronic graft-versus-host-disease (cGVHD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality following allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Because treatment options remain limited, we tested efficacy of anticancer, chromatin-modifying enzyme inhibitors in a clinically relevant murine model of cGVHD with bronchiolitis obliterans (BO). We observed that the novel enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) inhibitor JQ5 and the BET-bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 each improved pulmonary function; impaired the germinal center (GC) reaction, a prerequisite in cGVHD/BO pathogenesis; and JQ5 reduced EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 in donor T cells. Using conditional EZH2 knockout donor cells, we demonstrated that EZH2 is obligatory for the initiation of cGVHD/BO. In a sclerodermatous cGVHD model, JQ5 reduced the severity of cutaneous lesions. To determine how the 2 drugs could lead to the same physiological improvements while targeting unique epigenetic processes, we analyzed the transcriptomes of splenic GCB cells (GCBs) from transplanted mice treated with either drug. Multiple inflammatory and signaling pathways enriched in cGVHD/BO GCBs were reduced by each drug. GCBs from JQ5- but not JQ1-treated mice were enriched for proproliferative pathways also seen in GCBs from bone marrow-only transplanted mice, likely reflecting their underlying biology in the unperturbed state. In conjunction with in vivo data, these insights led us to conclude that epigenetic targeting of the GC is a viable clinical approach for the treatment of cGVHD, and that the EZH2 inhibitor JQ5 and the BET-bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 demonstrated clinical potential for EZH2i and BETi in patients with cGVHD/BO.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Zaiken
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Ryan Flynn
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Katelyn G Paz
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Stephanie Y Rhee
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Sujeong Jin
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Fathima A Mohamed
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Asim Saha
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Govindarajan Thangavelu
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Paul M C Park
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Matthew L Hemming
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Peter T Sage
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School-Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Arlene H Sharpe
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School-Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Michel DuPage
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | | | - Angela Panoskaltsis-Mortari
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | | | | | - Robert J Soiffer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Leo Luznik
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Ivan Maillard
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Geoffrey R Hill
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Kelli P A MacDonald
- Department of Immunology, Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR), University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David H Munn
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Jonathan S Serody
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - William J Murphy
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA
| | - Leslie S Kean
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Boston Children's Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Yi Zhang
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - James E Bradner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA; and
| | - Jun Qi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Bruce R Blazar
- Division of Blood & Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yu HY, Lee S, Ju H, Kim Y, Shin JH, Yun H, Ryu CM, Heo J, Lim J, Song S, Lee S, Hong KS, Chung HM, Kim JK, Choo MS, Shin DM. Intravital imaging and single cell transcriptomic analysis for engraftment of mesenchymal stem cells in an animal model of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. Biomaterials 2021; 280:121277. [PMID: 34861510 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is a promising treatment for various intractable disorders including interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). However, an analysis of fundamental characteristics driving in vivo behaviors of transplanted cells has not been performed, causing debates about rational use and efficacy of MSC therapy. Here, we implemented two-photon intravital imaging and single cell transcriptome analysis to evaluate the in vivo behaviors of engrafted multipotent MSCs (M-MSCs) derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in an acute IC/BPS animal model. Two-photon imaging analysis was performed to visualize the dynamic association between engrafted M-MSCs and bladder vasculature within live animals until 28 days after transplantation, demonstrating the progressive integration of transplanted M-MSCs into a perivascular-like structure. Single cell transcriptome analysis was performed in highly purified engrafted cells after a dual MACS-FACS sorting procedure and revealed expression changes in various pathways relating to pericyte cell adhesion and cellular stress. Particularly, FOS and cyclin dependent kinase-1 (CDK1) played a key role in modulating the migration, engraftment, and anti-inflammatory functions of M-MSCs, which determined their in vivo therapeutic potency. Collectively, this approach provides an overview of engrafted M-MSC behavior in vivo, which will advance our understanding of MSC therapeutic applications, efficacy, and safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwan Yeul Yu
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; ToolGen Inc., Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seungun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyein Ju
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Youngkyu Kim
- Biomedical Engineering Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Hyun Shin
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - HongDuck Yun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chae-Min Ryu
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinbeom Heo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jisun Lim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sujin Song
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sanghwa Lee
- Biomedical Engineering Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ki-Sung Hong
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; Mirae Cell Bio Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyung-Min Chung
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea; Mirae Cell Bio Co., Ltd., Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jun Ki Kim
- Biomedical Engineering Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myung-Soo Choo
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Dong-Myung Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ventura-Carmenate Y, Alkaabi FM, Castillo-Aleman YM, Villegas-Valverde CA, Ahmed YM, Sanna P, Almarzooqi AA, Abdelrazik A, Torres-Zambrano GM, Wade-Mateo M, Quesada-Saliba D, Abdel Hadi L, Bencomo-Hernandez AA, Rivero-Jimenez RA. Safety and efficacy of autologous non-hematopoietic enriched stem cell nebulization in COVID-19 patients: a randomized clinical trial, Abu Dhabi 2020. TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 6:25. [PMID: 34746417 PMCID: PMC8563822 DOI: 10.1186/s41231-021-00101-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel SARS-CoV-2 has caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Currently, with insufficient worldwide vaccination rates, identifying treatment solutions to reduce the impact of the virus is urgently needed. METHOD An adaptive, multicentric, open-label, and randomized controlled phase I/II clinical trial entitled the "SENTAD-COVID Study" was conducted by the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center under exceptional conditional approval by the Emirates Institutional Review Board (IRB) for COVID-19 Research Committee from April 4th to July 31st, 2020, using an autologous peripheral blood non-hematopoietic enriched stem cell cocktail (PB-NHESC-C) administered by compressor (jet) nebulization as a complement to standard care therapy. The primary endpoints include safety and efficacy assessments, adverse events, the mortality rate within 28 days, and the time to clinical improvement as measured by a 2-point reduction on a seven-category ordinal scale or discharge from the hospital whichever occurred first. RESULTS The study included a total of 139 randomized COVID-19 patients, with 69 in the experimental group and 70 in the control group (standard care). Overall survival was 94.20% for the cocktail-treated group vs. 90.27% for the control group. Adverse events were reported in 50 (72.46%) patients receiving PB-NHESC-C and 51 (72.85%) in the control group (p = 0.9590), with signs and symptoms commonly found in COVID-19. After the first 9 days of the intervention, 67.3% of cocktail-treated patients recovered and were released from hospitals compared to 53.1% (RR = 0.84; 95% CI, 0.56-1.28) in the control group. Improvement, i.e., at least a 2-point reduction in the severity scale, was more frequently observed in cocktail-treated patients (42.0%) than in controls (17.0%) (RR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.56-0.88). CONCLUSIONS Cocktail treatment improved clinical outcomes without increasing adverse events. Thus, the nebulization of PB-NHESC-C was safe and effective for treatment in most of these patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT04473170. It was retrospectively registered on July 16th, 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yendry Ventura-Carmenate
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Yandy Marx Castillo-Aleman
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Yasmine Maher Ahmed
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | - Pierdanilo Sanna
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Abeer Abdelrazik
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | - Gina Marcela Torres-Zambrano
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - David Quesada-Saliba
- Miami Dade College, Mathematics Department Chair, Wolfson Campus, Miami, FL 33132 USA
| | - Loubna Abdel Hadi
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Rene Antonio Rivero-Jimenez
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misahah Street, Villa No. 25, Rowdhat, Zone-1, POB 4600, Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pluripotent Stem (VSELs) and Progenitor (EnSCs) Cells Exist in Adult Mouse Uterus and Show Cyclic Changes Across Estrus Cycle. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:278-290. [PMID: 32710237 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00250-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We have earlier reported pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and slightly bigger endometrial stem cells (EnSCs) in adult mouse uterus and their regulation by gonadotropin and steroid hormones. VSELs can differentiate into cells of all three lineages in vitro; however, they neither expand readily in vitro nor compliment a developing embryo. In the present study, a robust protocol is described to enrich uterine stem/progenitor cells along with their characterization and variation across estrus cycle. After enzymatic digestion of adult mouse uterus, single-cell suspension obtained was spun at 1000 rpm (250 g) to pellet majority of cells. Stem cells remain buoyant at this speed and were pelleted by spinning supernatant at 3000 rpm (1000 g). Spherical, darkly stained VSELs (2-6 μm) with high nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio and EnSCs (> 6 μm) expressed OCT-4, NANOG, SSEA-1, SCA-1, and c-KIT. OCT-4-positive cells co-expressed SSEA-1, ERα, ERβ, PR, and FSHR. Transcripts specific for pluripotent state (Oct-4, Oct-4a, Sox-2, Nanog), primordial germ cells (Stella, Fragilis), and receptors for pituitary and steroid hormones (ERα, ERβ, PR, FSHR 1 and 3) were studied by RT-PCR in 3000 rpm pellet. Cell pellet collected at 3000 rpm showed 10-fold enrichment of VSELs (2-6 μm, viable cells with surface phenotype of LIN-CD45-SCA-1+) by flow cytometry and upregulation of pluripotent transcripts by qRT-PCR compared with 1000 rpm pellet. VSELs were maximal during estrus and metestrus phases of estrus cycle. To conclude, VSELs/EnSCs can be enriched from adult uterus using the strategy described here, vary in numbers across estrus cycle, and are vulnerable to endocrine disruption as they express steroid receptors.
Collapse
|
12
|
Liu G, David BT, Trawczynski M, Fessler RG. Advances in Pluripotent Stem Cells: History, Mechanisms, Technologies, and Applications. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 16:3-32. [PMID: 31760627 PMCID: PMC6987053 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09935-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, and particularly in the last decade, significant developmental milestones have driven basic, translational, and clinical advances in the field of stem cell and regenerative medicine. In this article, we provide a systemic overview of the major recent discoveries in this exciting and rapidly developing field. We begin by discussing experimental advances in the generation and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), next moving to the maintenance of stem cells in different culture types, and finishing with a discussion of three-dimensional (3D) cell technology and future stem cell applications. Specifically, we highlight the following crucial domains: 1) sources of pluripotent cells; 2) next-generation in vivo direct reprogramming technology; 3) cell types derived from PSCs and the influence of genetic memory; 4) induction of pluripotency with genomic modifications; 5) construction of vectors with reprogramming factor combinations; 6) enhancing pluripotency with small molecules and genetic signaling pathways; 7) induction of cell reprogramming by RNA signaling; 8) induction and enhancement of pluripotency with chemicals; 9) maintenance of pluripotency and genomic stability in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs); 10) feeder-free and xenon-free culture environments; 11) biomaterial applications in stem cell biology; 12) three-dimensional (3D) cell technology; 13) 3D bioprinting; 14) downstream stem cell applications; and 15) current ethical issues in stem cell and regenerative medicine. This review, encompassing the fundamental concepts of regenerative medicine, is intended to provide a comprehensive portrait of important progress in stem cell research and development. Innovative technologies and real-world applications are emphasized for readers interested in the exciting, promising, and challenging field of stem cells and those seeking guidance in planning future research direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gele Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rush University Medical College, 1725 W. Harrison St., Suite 855, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Brian T David
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rush University Medical College, 1725 W. Harrison St., Suite 855, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Matthew Trawczynski
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rush University Medical College, 1725 W. Harrison St., Suite 855, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Richard G Fessler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rush University Medical College, 1725 W. Harrison St., Suite 855, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sachs K, Sarver AL, Noble-Orcutt KE, LaRue RS, Antony ML, Chang D, Lee Y, Navis CM, Hillesheim AL, Nykaza IR, Ha NA, Hansen CJ, Karadag FK, Bergerson RJ, Verneris MR, Meredith MM, Schomaker ML, Linden MA, Myers CL, Largaespada DA, Sachs Z. Single-Cell Gene Expression Analyses Reveal Distinct Self-Renewing and Proliferating Subsets in the Leukemia Stem Cell Compartment in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancer Res 2019; 80:458-470. [PMID: 31784425 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-2932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Standard chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) targets proliferative cells and efficiently induces complete remission; however, many patients relapse and die of their disease. Relapse is caused by leukemia stem cells (LSC), the cells with self-renewal capacity. Self-renewal and proliferation are separate functions in normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) in steady-state conditions. If these functions are also separate functions in LSCs, then antiproliferative therapies may fail to target self-renewal, allowing for relapse. We investigated whether proliferation and self-renewal are separate functions in LSCs as they often are in HSCs. Distinct transcriptional profiles within LSCs of Mll-AF9/NRASG12V murine AML were identified using single-cell RNA sequencing. Single-cell qPCR revealed that these genes were also differentially expressed in primary human LSCs and normal human HSPCs. A smaller subset of these genes was upregulated in LSCs relative to HSPCs; this subset of genes constitutes "LSC-specific" genes in human AML. To assess the differences between these profiles, we identified cell surface markers, CD69 and CD36, whose genes were differentially expressed between these profiles. In vivo mouse reconstitution assays resealed that only CD69High LSCs were capable of self-renewal and were poorly proliferative. In contrast, CD36High LSCs were unable to transplant leukemia but were highly proliferative. These data demonstrate that the transcriptional foundations of self-renewal and proliferation are distinct in LSCs as they often are in normal stem cells and suggest that therapeutic strategies that target self-renewal, in addition to proliferation, are critical to prevent relapse and improve survival in AML. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings define and functionally validate a self-renewal gene profile of leukemia stem cells at the single-cell level and demonstrate that self-renewal and proliferation are distinct in AML. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/80/3/458/F1.large.jpg.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Sachs
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Next Generation Analytics, Palo Alto, California
| | - Aaron L Sarver
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Klara E Noble-Orcutt
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Rebecca S LaRue
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Marie Lue Antony
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Daniel Chang
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Yoonkyu Lee
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Connor M Navis
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Alexandria L Hillesheim
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Ian R Nykaza
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Ngoc A Ha
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Conner J Hansen
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Fatma K Karadag
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Rachel J Bergerson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Michael R Verneris
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Matthew M Meredith
- Molecular Lab, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Matthew L Schomaker
- Molecular Lab, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Michael A Linden
- Division of Hematopathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Chad L Myers
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - David A Largaespada
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Zohar Sachs
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota. .,Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- From the Stem Cell Institute, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.K.).,Department of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Preclinical Research and Technology at Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.)
| | - Janina Ratajczak
- From the Stem Cell Institute, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.K.)
| | - Magda Kucia
- From the Stem Cell Institute, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.K.).,Department of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Preclinical Research and Technology at Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ratajczak MZ, Domingues A, Suman S, Straughn AR, Kakar SS, Suszynska M. Novel view of the adult stem cell compartment - a developmental story of germline and parental imprinting. PROCEEDINGS OF STEM CELL RESEARCH AND ONCOGENESIS 2019; 7:e1001. [PMID: 32699838 PMCID: PMC7375353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Evidence has accumulated that postnatal tissues contain developmentally early stem cells that remain in a dormant state as well as stem cells that are more proliferative, supplying tissue-specific progenitor cells and thus playing a more active role in the turnover of adult tissues. The most primitive, dormant, postnatal tissue-derived stem cells, called very small embryonic like stem cells (VSELs), are regulated by epigenetic changes in the expression of certain parentally imprinted genes, a molecular phenomenon previously described for maintaining primordial germ cells (PGCs) in a quiescent state. Specifically, they show erasure of parental imprinting at the Igf2-H19 locus, which keeps them in a quiescent state in a similar manner as migrating PGCs. To date, the presence of these cells in adult postnatal tissues have been demonstrated by at least 25 independent laboratories. We envision that similar changes in expression of parentally imprinted genes may also play a role in the quiescence of dormant VSELs present in other non-hematopoietic tissues. Recent data indicate that VSELs expand in vivo and in vitro after reestablishment of somatic imprinting at the Igf2-H19 locus by nicotinamide treatment in response to stimulation by pituitary gonadotrophins (follicle stimulating factor, luteinizing hormone and prolactin) and gonadal androgens and estrogens. These cells could be also successfully expanded ex vivo in the presence of the small molecule UM177.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Z. Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alison Domingues
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Suman Suman
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alex R. Straughn
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Sham S. Kakar
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Malwina Suszynska
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
The very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are known as a subset of adult pluripotent stem cells able to differentiate to all three germ layers. However, their small number and quiescence restrict the possibility of their use in cell therapy. In the present study, we first delineate different subpopulation of VSELs from human cord blood CD34+ cells to define their purity. We next determine genes expression levels in the whole transcriptome of VSELs expressing the pluripotent marker NANOG and control cells under the steady state condition. We found that more than a thousand of genes are downregulated in VSELs, as well as many membrane receptors, cells signaling molecules and CDKs mRNAs. In addition, we observed discordance in some pluripotent genes expression levels with embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which could explain VSELs quiescence. We then evaluate VSELs capacity to expand and differentiate in vitro in specific and appropriate media. After 12 days culture in specific medium containing a pyrimidoindole derivative (UM171), VSELs were significantly expanded for the first time without feeder cells and importantly preserve their capacities to differentiate into hematopoietic and endothelial cells. Interestingly, this stimulation of VSELs self-renewal restores the expression of some downregulated genes known as key regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation. The properties of such pluripotent expanded cells make them a potential candidate in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
|
17
|
Plausible Links Between Metabolic Networks, Stem Cells, and Longevity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1201:355-388. [PMID: 31898793 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-31206-0_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aging is an inevitable consequence of life, and all multicellular organisms undergo a decline in tissue and organ functions as they age. Several well-known risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, and lack of physical activity that lead to the cardiovascular system, decline and impede the function of vital organs, ultimately limit overall life span. Over recent years, aging research has experienced an unparalleled growth, particularly with the discovery and recognition of genetic pathways and biochemical processes that control to some extent the rate of aging.In this chapter, we focus on several aspects of stem cell biology and aging, beginning with major cellular hallmarks of aging, endocrine regulation of aging and its impact on stem cell compartment, and mechanisms of increased longevity. We then discuss the role of epigenetic modifications associated with aging and provide an overview on a most recent search of antiaging modalities.
Collapse
|
18
|
Bhartiya D, Patel H, Ganguly R, Shaikh A, Shukla Y, Sharma D, Singh P. Novel Insights into Adult and Cancer Stem Cell Biology. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1527-1539. [PMID: 30051749 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult tissues are thought to harbor two populations of "dormant" and "actively dividing" stem cells. Quiescent stem cells undergo rare asymmetric cell divisions (ACDs) through which they self-renew and give rise to tissue-committed "progenitors" of distinct fate and "progenitors" in turn undergo symmetric cell divisions (SCDs) and clonal expansion. However, quiescent stem cells have not been demonstrated in adult tissues such as skin, testis, liver, and brain. After surgical removal of part of liver and pancreas-adult differentiated cells divide and regenerate and a possible role of stem cells remains doubtful. Long-term repopulating hematopoietic stem cells are quiescent in nature but ACD has not been convincingly demonstrated even among them. Attempts by various groups to identify a common stemness program that ensures self-renewal among different kinds of stem cells have also remained futile. Uncontrolled self-renewal and compromised differentiation of stem cells possibly initiate leukemia/cancer, but the identity of leukemic stem cells and whether cancer stem cells arise by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in solid tumors are all open-ended questions that need greater clarity. Acceptance of the presence of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) in adult tissues could clarify several of these existing dilemmas in the field. Data are compiled showing that VSELs undergo ACD in the hematopoietic system, testis, ovary, uterus, and pancreas, whereas tissue-committed progenitors undergo SCD and clonal expansion. VSELs possess similar overlapping stemness program as in embryonic stem cells, embryonic carcinoma cells, embryonic germ cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and primordial germ cells. VSELs and leukemic and cancer cells express overlapping embryonic markers. Uncontrolled proliferation of VSELs and compromised differentiation possibly initiate leukemia. Process of EMT and initiation of solid tumor from VSELs (located among the epithelial cells) are indeed two distinct and parallel events. To conclude, VSELs provide explanation to several confounding aspects of adult stem cell biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Ranita Ganguly
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Ambreen Shaikh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Yashvi Shukla
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| | - Pushpa Singh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health , Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Prolonged Growth Hormone/Insulin/Insulin-like Growth Factor Nutrient Response Signaling Pathway as a Silent Killer of Stem Cells and a Culprit in Aging. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2018; 13:443-453. [PMID: 28229284 PMCID: PMC5493720 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-017-9728-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The dream of slowing down the aging process has always inspired mankind. Since stem cells are responsible for tissue and organ rejuvenation, it is logical that we should search for encoded mechanisms affecting life span in these cells. However, in adult life the hierarchy within the stem cell compartment is still not very well defined, and evidence has accumulated that adult tissues contain rare stem cells that possess a broad trans-germ layer differentiation potential. These most-primitive stem cells-those endowed with pluripotent or multipotent differentiation ability and that give rise to other cells more restricted in differentiation, known as tissue-committed stem cells (TCSCs) - are of particular interest. In this review we present the concept supported by accumulating evidence that a population of so-called very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) residing in adult tissues positively impacts the overall survival of mammals, including humans. These unique cells are prevented in vertebrates from premature depletion by decreased sensitivity to growth hormone (GH), insulin (INS), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling, due to epigenetic changes in paternally imprinted genes that regulate their resistance to these factors. In this context, we can envision nutrient response GH/INS/IGF signaling pathway as a lethal factor for these most primitive stem cells and an important culprit in aging.
Collapse
|
21
|
Mouse Bone Marrow VSELs Exhibit Differentiation into Three Embryonic Germ Lineages and Germ & Hematopoietic Cells in Culture. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2017; 13:202-216. [PMID: 28070859 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-016-9714-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) have been reported in various adult tissues, express pluripotent and primordial germ cells (PGCs) specific markers, are mobilized under stress/disease conditions, give rise to tissue committed progenitors and thus help regenerate and maintain homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate in vitro differentiation potential of VSELs using a quantitative approach. VSELs were collected from mouse bone marrow after 4 days of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU, 150 mg/Kg) treatment, further enriched by size based filtration and cultured on a feeder support in the presence of specific differentiation media. Cultured VSELs were found to differentiate into all three embryonic germ cell lineages, germ and hematopoietic cells after 14 days in culture. This was confirmed by studying Nestin, PDX-1, NKX2.5, DAZL, CD45 and other markers expression by various approaches. Very small, CD45 negative cells collected and enriched from GFP positive 5-FU treated mice bone marrow transitioned into CD45 positive cells in vitro thus demonstrating that VSELs can give rise to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). We envision that VSELs may be responsible for plasticity and ability of bone marrow cells to give rise to non-hematopoietic tissue progenitors of all 3 germ layers. Moreover the ability of VSELs to differentiate into germ cells as well as all the three lineages provides further evidence to support their pluripotent state and confirms developmental link between bone marrow VSELs and PGCs. The property of quiescence, no risk of teratoma formation and autologus source, make pluripotent VSELs a potential candidate to facilitate endogenous regeneration compared to cell replacement strategy envisioned using embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells.
Collapse
|
22
|
Stem cell therapy for abrogating stroke-induced neuroinflammation and relevant secondary cell death mechanisms. Prog Neurobiol 2017; 158:94-131. [PMID: 28743464 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death worldwide. A key secondary cell death mechanism mediating neurological damage following the initial episode of ischemic stroke is the upregulation of endogenous neuroinflammatory processes to levels that destroy hypoxic tissue local to the area of insult, induce apoptosis, and initiate a feedback loop of inflammatory cascades that can expand the region of damage. Stem cell therapy has emerged as an experimental treatment for stroke, and accumulating evidence supports the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells to abrogate stroke-induced inflammation. In this review, we investigate clinically relevant stem cell types, such as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), neural stem cells (NSCs), extraembryonic stem cells, adipose tissue-derived stem cells, breast milk-derived stem cells, menstrual blood-derived stem cells, dental tissue-derived stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), teratocarcinoma-derived Ntera2/D1 neuron-like cells (NT2N), c-mycER(TAM) modified NSCs (CTX0E03), and notch-transfected mesenchymal stromal cells (SB623), comparing their potential efficacy to sequester stroke-induced neuroinflammation and their feasibility as translational clinical cell sources. To this end, we highlight that MSCs, with a proven track record of safety and efficacy as a transplantable cell for hematologic diseases, stand as an attractive cell type that confers superior anti-inflammatory effects in stroke both in vitro and in vivo. That stem cells can mount a robust anti-inflammatory action against stroke complements the regenerative processes of cell replacement and neurotrophic factor secretion conventionally ascribed to cell-based therapy in neurological disorders.
Collapse
|
23
|
Ratajczak MZ, Ratajczak J, Suszynska M, Miller DM, Kucia M, Shin DM. A Novel View of the Adult Stem Cell Compartment From the Perspective of a Quiescent Population of Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells. Circ Res 2017; 120:166-178. [PMID: 28057792 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.116.309362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Evidence has accumulated that adult hematopoietic tissues and other organs contain a population of dormant stem cells (SCs) that are more primitive than other, already restricted, monopotent tissue-committed SCs (TCSCs). These observations raise several questions, such as the developmental origin of these cells, their true pluripotent or multipotent nature, which surface markers they express, how they can be efficiently isolated from adult tissues, and what role they play in the adult organism. The phenotype of these cells and expression of some genes characteristic of embryonic SCs, epiblast SCs, and primordial germ cells suggests their early-embryonic deposition in developing tissues as precursors of adult SCs. In this review, we will critically discuss all these questions and the concept that small dormant SCs related to migratory primordial germ cells, described as very small embryonic-like SCs, are deposited during embryogenesis in bone marrow and other organs as a backup population for adult tissue-committed SCs and are involved in several processes related to tissue or organ rejuvenation, aging, and cancerogenesis. The most recent results on successful ex vivo expansion of human very small embryonic-like SC in chemically defined media free from feeder-layer cells open up new and exciting possibilities for their application in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.).
| | - Janina Ratajczak
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.)
| | - Malwina Suszynska
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.)
| | - Donald M Miller
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.)
| | - Magda Kucia
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.)
| | - Dong-Myung Shin
- From the Department of Medicine, Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY (M.Z.R., J.R., M.S., D.M.M., M.K.); Department of Regenerative Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Poland (M.Z.R., M.K.); and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea (D.-M.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ferensztajn-Rochowiak E, Kucharska-Mazur J, Samochowiec J, Ratajczak MZ, Michalak M, Rybakowski JK. The effect of long-term lithium treatment of bipolar disorder on stem cells circulating in peripheral blood. World J Biol Psychiatry 2017; 18:54-62. [PMID: 27071327 DOI: 10.3109/15622975.2016.1174301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the effect of long-term lithium treatment on very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) circulating in peripheral blood (PB), in bipolar disorder (BD). METHODS The study included 15 BD patients (aged 55 ± 6 years) treated with lithium for 8-40 years (mean 16 years), 15 BD patients (aged 53 ± 7 years) with duration of illness >10 years, who had never received lithium, and 15 healthy controls (aged 50 ± 5 years). The VSELs, HSCs, MSCs and EPCs were measured by flow cytometric analysis. RESULTS In BD subjects not taking lithium the number of CD34+ VSELs was significantly higher, and MSCs and EPCs numerically higher, than in control subjects and the number of CD34+ VSELs correlated with the duration of illness. In lithium-treated patients these values were similar to controls and the number of CD34+ VSELs correlated negatively with the duration of lithium treatment and serum lithium concentration. CONCLUSIONS Long-term treatment with lithium may suppress the activation of regenerative processes by reducing the number of VSELs circulating in PB. These cells, in BD patients not treated with lithium, may provide a new potential biological marker of the illness and its clinical progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jerzy Samochowiec
- b Department of Psychiatry , Pomeranian University of Medicine , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- c Department of Physiology , Pomeranian University of Medicine , Szczecin , Poland.,d Stem Cell Biology Program at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center , University of Louisville , Louisville , KY , 40202 , USA
| | - Michal Michalak
- e Department of Computer Science and Statistics , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| | - Janusz K Rybakowski
- a Department of Adult Psychiatry , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznan , Poland
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bhartiya D, Shaikh A, Anand S, Patel H, Kapoor S, Sriraman K, Parte S, Unni S. Endogenous, very small embryonic-like stem cells: critical review, therapeutic potential and a look ahead. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:41-76. [PMID: 27614362 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were reported in 2006. In 2012, a Nobel Prize was awarded for iPS technology whereas even today the very existence of VSELs is not well accepted. The underlying reason is that VSELs exist in low numbers, remain dormant under homeostatic conditions, are very small in size and do not pellet down at 250-280g. The VSELs maintain life-long tissue homeostasis, serve as a backup pool for adult stem cells and are mobilized under stress conditions. An imbalance in VSELs function (uncontrolled proliferation) may result in cancer. SEARCH METHODS The electronic database 'Medline/Pubmed' was systematically searched with the subject heading term 'very small embryonic-like stem cells'. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The most primitive stem cells that undergo asymmetric cell divisions to self-renew and give rise to progenitors still remain elusive in the hematopoietic system and testes, while the presence of stem cells in ovary is still being debated. We propose to review the available literature on VSELs, the methods of their isolation and characterization, their ontogeny, how they compare with embryonic stem (ES) cells, primordial germ cells (PGCs) and iPS cells, and their role in maintaining tissue homeostasis. The review includes a look ahead on how VSELs will result in paradigm shifts in basic reproductive biology. OUTCOMES Adult tissue-specific stem cells including hematopoietic, spermatogonial, ovarian and mesenchymal stem cells have good proliferation potential and are indeed committed progenitors (with cytoplasmic OCT-4), which arise by asymmetric cell divisions of pluripotent VSELs (with nuclear OCT-4). VSELs are the most primitive stem cells and postulated to be an overlapping population with the PGCs. Rather than migrating only to the gonads, PGCs migrate and survive in various adult body organs throughout life as VSELs. VSELs express both pluripotent and PGC-specific markers and are epigenetically and developmentally more mature compared with ES cells obtained from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst-stage embryo. As a result, VSELs readily differentiate into three embryonic germ layers and spontaneously give rise to both sperm and oocytes in vitro. Like PGCs, VSELs do not divide readily in culture, nor produce teratoma or integrate in the developing embryo. But this property of being relatively quiescent allows endogenous VSELs to survive various kinds of toxic insults. VSELs that survive oncotherapy can be targeted to induce endogenous regeneration of non-functional gonads. Transplanting healthy niche (mesenchymal) cells have resulted in improved gonadal function and live births. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Being quiescent, VSELs possibly do not accumulate genomic (nuclear or mitochondrial) mutations and thus may be ideal endogenous, pluripotent stem cell candidates for regenerative and reproductive medicine. The presence of VSELs in adult gonads and the fact that they survive oncotherapy may obviate the need to bank gonadal tissue for fertility preservation prior to oncotherapy. VSELs and their ability to undergo spermatogenesis/neo-oogenesis in the presence of a healthy niche will help identify newer strategies toward fertility restoration in cancer survivors, delaying menopause and also enabling aged mothers to have better quality eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Ambreen Shaikh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Sandhya Anand
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Sona Kapoor
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India
| | - Kalpana Sriraman
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India.,The Foundation for Medical Research, 84-A, RG Thadani Marg, Worli, Mumbai 400018, India
| | - Seema Parte
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India.,Department of Physiology, James Graham Brown Cancer Centre, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 2301 S 3rd St, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Sreepoorna Unni
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400 012, India.,Inter Disciplinary Studies Department, University College, Zayed University, Academic City, PO Box 19282, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Shaikh A, Bhartiya D, Kapoor S, Nimkar H. Delineating the effects of 5-fluorouracil and follicle-stimulating hormone on mouse bone marrow stem/progenitor cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2016; 7:59. [PMID: 27095238 PMCID: PMC4837595 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-016-0311-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pluripotent, Lin–/CD45–/Sca-1+ very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) in mouse bone marrow (BM) are resistant to total body radiation because of their quiescent nature, whereas Lin–/CD45+/Sca-1+ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) get eliminated. In the present study, we provide further evidence for the existence of VSELs in mouse BM and have also examined the effects of a chemotherapeutic agent (5-fluorouracil (5-FU)) and gonadotropin hormone (follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)) on BM stem/progenitor cells. Methods VSELs and HSCs were characterized in intact BM. Swiss mice were injected with 5-FU (150 mg/kg) and sacrificed on 2, 4, and 10 days (D2, D4, and D10) post treatment to examine changes in BM histology and effects on VSELs and HSCs by a multiparametric approach. The effect of FSH (5 IU) administered 48 h after 5-FU treatment was also studied. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, cell cycle analysis, and colony-forming unit (CFU) assay were carried out to understand the functional potential of stem/progenitor cells towards regeneration of chemoablated marrow. Results Nuclear OCT-4, SCA-1, and SSEA-1 coexpressing LIN–/CD45– VSELs and slightly larger LIN–/CD45+ HSCs expressing cytoplasmic OCT-4 were identified and comprised 0.022 ± 0.002 % and 0.081 ± 0.004 % respectively of the total cells in BM. 5-FU treatment resulted in depletion of cells with a 7-fold reduction by D4 and normal hematopoiesis was re-established by D10. Nuclear OCT-4 and PCNA-positive VSELs were detected in chemoablated bone sections near the endosteal region. VSELs remained unaffected by 5-FU on D2 and increased on D4, whereas HSCs showed a marked reduction in numbers on D2 and later increased along with the corresponding increase in BrdU uptake and upregulation of specific transcripts (Oct-4A, Oct-4, Sca-1, Nanog, Stella, Fragilis, Pcna). Cells that survived 5-FU formed colonies in vitro. Both VSELs and HSCs expressed FSH receptors and FSH treatment enhanced hematopoietic recovery by 72 h. Conclusion Both VSELs and HSCs were activated in response to the stress created by 5-FU and FSH enhanced hematopoietic recovery by at least 72 h in 5-FU-treated mice. VSELs are the most primitive pluripotent stem cells in BM that self-renew and give rise to HSCs under stress, and HSCs further divide rapidly and differentiate to maintain homeostasis. The study provides a novel insight into basic hematopoiesis and has clinical relevance. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13287-016-0311-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambreen Shaikh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
| | - Sona Kapoor
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Harshada Nimkar
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (ICMR), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Virant-Klun I, Kenda-Suster N, Smrkolj S. Small putative NANOG, SOX2, and SSEA-4-positive stem cells resembling very small embryonic-like stem cells in sections of ovarian tissue in patients with ovarian cancer. J Ovarian Res 2016; 9:12. [PMID: 26940129 PMCID: PMC4778328 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-016-0221-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In previous studies it has been found that in cell cultures of human adult ovaries there is a population of small stem cells with diameters of 2-4 μm, which are present mainly in the ovarian surface epithelium and are comparable to very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) from bone marrow. These cells are not observed by histopathologists in the ovarian tissue due to their small size and unknown clinical significance. Because these cells express a degree of pluripotency, they might be involved in the manifestation of ovarian cancer. Therefore we studied the ovarian tissue sections in women with borderline ovarian cancer and serous ovarian carcinoma to perhaps identify the small putative stem cells in situ. METHODS In 27 women with borderline ovarian cancer and 20 women with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma the ovarian tissue sections were stained, per standard practice, with eosin and hematoxylin staining and on NANOG, SSEA-4 and SOX2 markers, related to pluripotency, using immunohistochemistry. We focused on the presence and localization of small putative stem cells with diameters of up to 5 μm and with the nuclei spread over nearly the full cell volume. RESULTS In ovarian sections of both borderline ovarian cancer and serous ovarian carcinoma patients we were able to identify the presence of small round cells complying with the above criteria. Some of these small cells were NANOG-positive, were located among epithelial cells in the ovarian surface epithelium and as a single cell or groups of cells/clusters in typical "chambers", were found only in the presence of ovarian cancer and not in healthy ovaries and are comparable to those in fetal ovaries. We envision that these small cells could be related to NANOG-positive tumor-like structures and oocyte-like cells in similar "chambers" found in sections of cancerous ovaries, which could support their stemness and pluripotency. Further immunohistochemistry revealed a similar population of SSEA-4 and SOX2-positive cells. CONCLUSIONS We may conclude that putative small stem cells expressing markers, related to pluripotency, are present in the ovarian tissue sections of women with borderline ovarian cancer and high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma thus indicating their potential involvement in ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Natasa Kenda-Suster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Spela Smrkolj
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Virant-Klun I. Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells: A Potential Developmental Link Between Germinal Lineage and Hematopoiesis in Humans. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 25:101-13. [PMID: 26494182 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) could become specified from a population of migrating primordial germ cells (PGCs), precursors of gametes, during embryogenesis. Some recent experimental data demonstrated that the cell population that is usually considered to be PGCs, moving toward the gonadal ridges of an embryo, contains a subset of cells coexpressing several germ cell and hematopoietic markers and possessing hematopoietic activity. Experimental data showed that bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) generates PGCs from mouse bone marrow-derived pluripotent stem cells. Interestingly, functional reproductive hormone receptors have been identified in HSPCs, thus indicating their potential role in reproductive function. Several reports have demonstrated fertility restoration and germ cell generation after bone marrow transplantation in both animal models and humans. A potential link between HSPCs and germinal lineage might be represented by very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), which have been found in adult human bone marrow, peripheral blood, and umbilical cord blood, express a specific pattern of pluripotency, germinal lineage, and hematopoiesis, and are proposed to persist in adult tissues and organs from the embryonic period of life. Stem cell populations, similar to VSELs, expressing several genes related to pluripotency and germinal lineage, especially to PGCs, have been discovered in adult human reproductive organs, ovaries and testicles, and were related to primitive germ cell-like cell development in vitro, thus supporting the idea of VSELs as a potential link between germinal lineage and hematopoiesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana , Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Identification of a New Cell Population Constitutively Circulating in Healthy Conditions and Endowed with a Homing Ability Toward Injured Sites. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16574. [PMID: 26560420 PMCID: PMC4642305 DOI: 10.1038/srep16574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem and progenitor cells are the critical units for tissue maintenance, regeneration, and repair. The activation of regenerative events in response to tissue injury has been correlated with mobilization of tissue-resident progenitor cells, which is functional to the wound healing process. However, until now there has been no evidence for the presence of cells with a healing capacity circulating in healthy conditions. We identified a rare cell population present in the peripheral blood of healthy mice that actively participates in tissue repair. These Circulating cells, with a Homing ability and involved in the Healing process (CH cells), were identified by an innovative flowcytometry strategy as small cells not expressing CD45 and lineage markers. Their transcriptome profile revealed that CH cells are unique and present a high expression of key pluripotency- and epiblast-associated genes. More importantly, CH-labeled cells derived from healthy Red Fluorescent Protein (RFP)-transgenic mice and systemically injected into syngeneic fractured wild-type mice migrated and engrafted in wounded tissues, ultimately differentiating into tissue-specific cells. Accordingly, the number of CH cells in the peripheral blood rapidly decreased following femoral fracture. These findings uncover the existence of constitutively circulating cells that may represent novel, accessible, and versatile effectors of therapeutic tissue regeneration.
Collapse
|
30
|
Shaikh A, Nagvenkar P, Pethe P, Hinduja I, Bhartiya D. Molecular and phenotypic characterization of CD133 and SSEA4 enriched very small embryonic-like stem cells in human cord blood. Leukemia 2015; 29:1909-17. [PMID: 25882698 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2015.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 03/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are immature primitive cells residing in adult and fetal tissues. This study describes enrichment strategy and molecular and phenotypic characterization of human cord blood VSELs. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that a majority of VSELs (LIN(-)/CD45(-)/CD34(+)) were present in the red blood cell (RBC) pellet after Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation in contrast to the hematopoietic stem cells (LIN(-)/CD45(+)/CD34(+)) in the interphase layer. Thus, after lyses of RBCs, VSELs were enriched using CD133 and SSEA4 antibodies. These enriched cells were small in size (4-6 μm), spherical, exhibited telomerase activity and expressed pluripotent stem cell (OCT4A, OCT4, SSEA4, NANOG, SOX2, REX1), primordial germ cell (STELLA, FRAGILIS) as well as primitive hematopoietic (CD133, CD34) markers at protein and transcript levels. Heterogeneity was noted among VSELs based on subtle differences in expression of various markers studied. DNA analysis and cell cycle studies revealed that a majority of enriched VSELs were diploid, non-apoptotic and in G0/G1 phase, reflecting their quiescent state. VSELs also survived 5-fluorouracil treatment in vitro and treated cells entered into cell cycle. This study provides further support for the existence of pluripotent, diploid and relatively quiescent VSELs in cord blood and suggests further exploration of the subpopulations among them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Shaikh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - P Nagvenkar
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - P Pethe
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - I Hinduja
- Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - D Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bhartiya D, Patel H. Very small embryonic-like stem cells are involved in pancreatic regeneration and their dysfunction with age may lead to diabetes and cancer. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:96. [PMID: 25976079 PMCID: PMC4432983 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0084-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mouse pancreas has a remarkable ability to regenerate after partial pancreatectomy, and several investigators have studied the underlying mechanisms involved in this regeneration process; however, the field remains contentious. Elegant lineage-tracing studies undertaken over a decade have generated strong evidence against neogenesis from stem cells and in favor of reduplication of pre-existing islets. Ductal epithelium has also been implicated during regeneration. We recently provided direct evidence for the possible involvement of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) during regeneration after partial pancreatectomy in mice. VSELs were first reported in pancreas in 2008 and are mobilized in large numbers after treating mice with streptozotocin and in patients with pancreatic cancer. VSELs can be detected in mouse pancreas as small-sized LIN−/CD45−/SCA-1+ cells (3 to 5 μm), present in small numbers (0.6%), which express nuclear Oct-4 (octamer-binding transcription factor 4) and other pluripotent markers along with their immediate descendant ‘progenitors’, which are slightly bigger and co-express Oct-4 and PDX-1. VSELs and the progenitors get mobilized in large numbers after partial pancreatectomy and regenerate both pancreatic islets and acinar cells. In this review, we deliberate upon possible reasons why VSELs have eluded scientists so far. Because of their small size, VSELs are probably unknowingly and inadvertently discarded during processing. Similar to menopause and related loss of ovarian function, type 2 diabetes mellitus occurs because of a decline in beta-cell function possibly resulting from an age-related compromised niche which does not allow VSELs to maintain normal homeostasis. As suggested earlier for ovarian cancers, the presence of Oct-4 and other pluripotent markers in pancreatic cancers is suggestive of VSELs as the possible cancer-initiating stem cells. Several issues raised in the review require urgent confirmation and thus provide scope for further research before arriving at a consensus on the fundamental role played by VSELs in normal pancreas biology and during regeneration, aging, and cancer. In the future, such understanding may allow manipulation of endogenous VSELs to our advantage in patients with diabetes and also to treat cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Song M, Lim J, Yu HY, Park J, Chun JY, Jeong J, Heo J, Kang H, Kim Y, Cho YM, Kim SW, Oh W, Choi SJ, Jang SW, Park S, Shin DM, Choo MS. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Alleviates Interstitial Cystitis by Activating Wnt Signaling Pathway. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:1648-57. [PMID: 25745847 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a syndrome characterized by urinary urgency, frequency, pelvic pain, and nocturia in the absence of bacterial infection or identifiable pathology. IC is a devastating disease that certainly decreases quality of life. However, the causes of IC remain unknown and no effective treatments or cures have been developed. This study evaluated the therapeutic potency of using human umbilical cord-blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCB-MSCs) to treat IC in a rat model and to investigate its responsible molecular mechanism. IC was induced in 10-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats via the instillation of 0.1 M HCl or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS; sham). After 1 week, human UCB-MSC (IC+MSC) or PBS (IC) was directly injected into the submucosal layer of the bladder. A single injection of human UCB-MSCs significantly attenuated the irregular and decreased voiding interval in the IC group. Accordingly, denudation of the epithelium and increased inflammatory responses, mast cell infiltration, neurofilament production, and angiogenesis observed in the IC bladders were prevented in the IC+MSC group. The injected UCB-MSCs successfully engrafted to the stromal and epithelial tissues and activated Wnt signaling cascade. Interference with Wnt and epidermal growth factor receptor activity by small molecules abrogated the benefits of MSC therapy. This is the first report that provides an experimental evidence of the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of MSC therapy to IC using an orthodox rat animal model. Our findings not only provide the basis for clinical trials of MSC therapy to IC but also advance our understanding of IC pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miho Song
- 1 Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Jisun Lim
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,3 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Hwan Yeul Yu
- 1 Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Junsoo Park
- 1 Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Youn Chun
- 1 Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaeho Jeong
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Jinbeom Heo
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunsook Kang
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - YongHwan Kim
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Mee Cho
- 5 Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Who Kim
- 6 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Wonil Oh
- 7 Biomedical Research Institute, MEDIPOST Co., Ltd. , Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo Jin Choi
- 7 Biomedical Research Institute, MEDIPOST Co., Ltd. , Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Wuk Jang
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Sanghyeok Park
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong-Myung Shin
- 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea.,4 Department of Physiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| | - Myung-Soo Choo
- 1 Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
In spite of generally accepted dogma that the total number of follicles and oocytes is established in human ovaries during the fetal period of life rather than forming de novo in adult ovaries, some new evidence in the field challenges this understanding. Several studies have shown that different populations of stem cells, such as germinal stem cells and small round stem cells with diameters of 2 to 4 μm, that resembled very small embryonic-like stem cells and expressed several genes related to primordial germ cells, pluripotency, and germinal lineage are present in adult human ovaries and originate in ovarian surface epithelium. These small stem cells were pushed into the germinal direction of development and formed primitive oocyte-like cells in vitro. Moreover, oocyte-like cells were also formed in vitro from embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. This indicates that postnatal oogenesis is not excluded. It is further supported by the occurrence of mesenchymal stem cells that can restore the function of sterilized ovaries and lead to the formation of new follicles and oocytes in animal models. Both oogenesis in vitro and transplantation of stem cell-derived "oocytes" into the ovarian niche to direct their natural maturation represent a big challenge for reproductive biomedicine in the treatment of female infertility in the future and needs to be explored and interpreted with caution, but it is still very important for clinical practice in the field of reproductive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mierzejewska K, Borkowska S, Suszynska E, Suszynska M, Poniewierska-Baran A, Maj M, Pedziwiatr D, Adamiak M, Abdel-Latif A, Kakar SS, Ratajczak J, Kucia M, Ratajczak MZ. Hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells express several functional sex hormone receptors-novel evidence for a potential developmental link between hematopoiesis and primordial germ cells. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:927-37. [PMID: 25607657 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence has accumulated that hematopoietic stem progenitor cells (HSPCs) share several markers with the germline, a connection supported by reports that prolactin, androgens, and estrogens stimulate hematopoiesis. To address this issue more directly, we tested the expression of receptors for pituitary-derived hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), on purified murine bone marrow (BM) cells enriched for HSPCs and tested the functionality of these receptors in ex vivo signal transduction studies and in vitro clonogenic assays. We also tested whether administration of pituitary- and gonad-derived sex hormones (SexHs) increases incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) into HSPCs and expansion of hematopoietic clonogenic progenitors in mice and promotes recovery of blood counts in sublethally irradiated animals. We report for the first time that HSPCs express functional FSH and LH receptors and that both proliferate in vivo and in vitro in response to stimulation by pituitary SexHs. Furthermore, based on our observations that at least some of CD45(-) very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) may become specified into CD45(+) HSPCs, we also evaluated the expression of pituitary and gonadal SexHs receptors on these cells and tested whether these quiescent cells may expand in vivo in response to SexHs administration. We found that VSELs express SexHs receptors and respond in vivo to SexHs stimulation, as evidenced by BrdU accumulation. Since at least some VSELs share several markers characteristic of migrating primordial germ cells and can be specified into HSPCs, this observation sheds new light on the BM stem cell hierarchy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Kassmer SH, Jin H, Zhang PX, Bruscia EM, Heydari K, Lee JH, Kim CF, Kassmer SH, Krause DS, Krouse D. Very small embryonic-like stem cells from the murine bone marrow differentiate into epithelial cells of the lung. Stem Cells 2015; 31:2759-66. [PMID: 23681901 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The view that adult stem cells are lineage restricted has been challenged by numerous reports of bone marrow (BM)-derived cells giving rise to epithelial cells. Previously, we demonstrated that nonhematopoietic BM cells are the primary source of BM-derived lung epithelial cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that very small embryonic like cells (VSELs) are responsible for this engraftment. We directly compared the level of BM-derived epithelial cells after transplantation of VSELs, hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, or other nonhematopoietic cells. VSELs clearly had the highest rate of forming epithelial cells in the lung. By transplanting VSELs from donor mice expressing H2B-GFP under a type 2 pneumocyte-specific promoter, we demonstrate that this engraftment occurs by differentiation and not fusion. This is the first report of VSELs differentiating into an endodermal lineage in vivo, thereby potentially crossing germ layer lineages. Our data suggest that Oct4+ VSELs in the adult BM exhibit broad differentiation potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susannah H Kassmer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, and Yale Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kim Y, Jeong J, Kang H, Lim J, Heo J, Ratajczak J, Ratajczak MZ, Shin DM. The molecular nature of very small embryonic-like stem cells in adult tissues. Int J Stem Cells 2014; 7:55-62. [PMID: 25473442 PMCID: PMC4249904 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc.2014.7.2.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have been considered as the most important cells in regenerative medicine as they are able to differentiate into all types of cells in the human body. PSCs have been established from several sources of embryo tissue or by reprogramming of terminally differentiated adult tissue by transduction of so-called Yamanaka factors (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and cMyc). Interestingly, accumulating evidence has demonstrated the residence of PSCs in adult tissue and with the ability to differentiate into multiple types of tissue-committed stem cells (TCSCs). We also recently demonstrated that a population of pluripotent Oct4+ SSEA-1+Sca-1+Lin−CD45− very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) resides in the adult murine bone marrow (BM) and in other murine tissue. These very small (∼3–6 μm) cells express pluripotent markers such as Oct4, Nanog, and SSEA-1. VSELs could be specified into several tissue-residing TCSCs in response to tissue/organ injury, and thus suggesting that these cells have a physiological role in the rejuvenation of a pool of TCSCs under steady-state conditions. In this review article, we discuss the molecular nature of the rare population of VSELs which have a crucial role in regulating the pluripotency, proliferation, differentiation, and aging of these cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- YongHwan Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaeho Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunsook Kang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jisun Lim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jinbeom Heo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Janina Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Institute at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Institute at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Dong-Myung Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea ; Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Lee SJ, Park SH, Kim YI, Hwang S, Kwon PM, Han IS, Kwon BS. Adult stem cells from the hyaluronic acid-rich node and duct system differentiate into neuronal cells and repair brain injury. Stem Cells Dev 2014; 23:2831-40. [PMID: 25027245 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of a hyaluronic acid-rich node and duct system (HAR-NDS) within the lymphatic and blood vessels was demonstrated previously. The HAR-NDS was enriched with small (3.0-5.0 μm in diameter), adult stem cells with properties similar to those of the very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs). Sca-1(+)Lin(-)CD45(-) cells were enriched approximately 100-fold in the intravascular HAR-NDS compared with the bone marrow. We named these adult stem cells "node and duct stem cells (NDSCs)." NDSCs formed colonies on C2C12 feeder layers, were positive for fetal alkaline phosphatase, and could be subcultured on the feeder layers. NDSCs were Oct4(+)Nanog(+)SSEA-1(+)Sox2(+), while VSELs were Oct4(+)Nanog(+)SSEA-1(+)Sox2(-). NDSCs had higher sphere-forming efficiency and proliferative potential than VSELs, and they were found to differentiate into neuronal cells in vitro. Injection of NDSCs into mice partially repaired ischemic brain damage. Thus, we report the discovery of potential adult stem cells that may be involved in tissue regeneration. The intravascular HAR-NDS may serve as a route that delivers these stem cells to their target tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung J Lee
- 1 Cancer Immunology Branch, National Cancer Center , Ilsan, Gyeonggi, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Grymula K, Tarnowski M, Piotrowska K, Suszynska M, Mierzejewska K, Borkowska S, Fiedorowicz K, Kucia M, Ratajczak MZ. Evidence that the population of quiescent bone marrow-residing very small embryonic/epiblast-like stem cells (VSELs) expands in response to neurotoxic treatment. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 18:1797-806. [PMID: 24895014 PMCID: PMC4162847 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept that bone marrow (BM)-derived cells may participate in neural regeneration remains controversial, and the identity of the specific cell type(s) involved remains unknown. We recently reported that the adult murine BM contains a highly mobile population of Sca-1+Lin−CD45− cells known as very small embryonic/epiblast-like stem cells (VSELs) that express several markers of pluripotency such as Oct-4. In the BM microenvironment, these cells are kept quiescent because of epigenetic modification of certain paternally imprinted genes. However, as reported, these cells can be mobilized in mice in an experimental model of stroke and express several genes involved in neurogenesis while circulating in peripheral blood (PB). In the current work, we employed a model of toxic brain damage, which is induced by administration of kainic acid, to see not only whether VSELs can be mobilized into PB in response to this neurotoxin, but, more importantly, whether they proliferate and expand in BM tissue. We report here for the first time that brain damage leads to activation and expansion of the BM pool of quiescent VSELs, which precedes their subsequent egress into PB. Harnessing these cells in neural tissue regeneration is currently one of the challenges in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Grymula
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wang J, Guo X, Lui M, Chu PJ, Yoo J, Chang M, Yen Y. Identification of a distinct small cell population from human bone marrow reveals its multipotency in vivo and in vitro. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85112. [PMID: 24465489 PMCID: PMC3894949 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Small stem cells, such as spore-like cells, blastomere-like stem cells (BLSCs), and very-small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) have been described in recent studies, although their multipotency in human tissues has not yet been confirmed. Here, we report the discovery of adult multipotent stem cells derived from human bone marrow, which we call StemBios (SB) cells. These isolated SB cells are smaller than 6 ìm and are DAPI+ and Lgr5+ (Leucine-Rich Repeat Containing G Protein-Coupled Receptor 5). Because Lgr5 has been characterized as a stem cell marker in the intestine, we hypothesized that SB cells may have a similar function. In vivo cell tracking assays confirmed that SB cells give rise to three types of cells, and in vitro studies demonstrated that SB cells cultured in proprietary media are able to grow to 6–25 ìm in size. Once the SB cells have attached to the wells, they differentiate into different cell lineages upon exposure to specific differentiation media. We are the first to demonstrate that stem cells smaller than 6 ìm can differentiate both in vivo and in vitro. In the future, we hope that SB cells will be used therapeutically to cure degenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Wang
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (YY); (JW)
| | - Xiaoyu Guo
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
| | - Monica Lui
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
| | - Pei-Ju Chu
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Yoo
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
| | - Megan Chang
- StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
| | - Yun Yen
- Board Member of the Scientific Advisory Board, StemBios Technologies, Inc., Monterey Park, California, United States of America
- * E-mail: (YY); (JW)
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Suszynska M, Zuba-Surma EK, Maj M, Mierzejewska K, Ratajczak J, Kucia M, Ratajczak MZ. The proper criteria for identification and sorting of very small embryonic-like stem cells, and some nomenclature issues. Stem Cells Dev 2014; 23:702-13. [PMID: 24299281 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2013.0472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence has accumulated that both murine and human adult tissues contain early-development stem cells with a broader differentiation potential than other adult monopotent stem cells. These cells, being pluripotent or multipotent, exist at different levels of specification and most likely represent overlapping populations of cells that, depending on the isolation strategy, ex vivo expansion protocol, and markers employed for their identification, have been given different names. In this review, we will discuss a population of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) in the context of other stem cells that express pluripotent/multipotent markers isolated from adult tissues as well as review the most current, validated working criteria on how to properly identify and isolate these very rare cells. VSELs have been successfully purified in several laboratories; however, a few have failed to isolate them, which has raised some unnecessary controversy in the field. Therefore, in this short review, we will address the most important reasons that some investigators have experienced problems in isolating these very rare cells and discuss some still unresolved challenges which should be overcome before these cells can be widely employed in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malwina Suszynska
- 1 Stem Cell Institute at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Shin DM, Suszynska M, Mierzejewska K, Ratajczak J, Ratajczak MZ. Very small embryonic-like stem-cell optimization of isolation protocols: an update of molecular signatures and a review of current in vivo applications. Exp Mol Med 2013; 45:e56. [PMID: 24232255 PMCID: PMC3849570 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2013.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
As the theory of stem cell plasticity was first proposed, we have explored an alternative hypothesis for this phenomenon: namely that adult bone marrow (BM) and umbilical cord blood (UCB) contain more developmentally primitive cells than hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). In support of this notion, using multiparameter sorting we were able to isolate small Sca1(+)Lin(-)CD45(-) cells and CD133(+)Lin(-)CD45(-) cells from murine BM and human UCB, respectively, which were further enriched for the detection of various early developmental markers such as the SSEA antigen on the surface and the Oct4 and Nanog transcription factors in the nucleus. Similar populations of cells have been found in various organs by our team and others, including the heart, brain and gonads. Owing to their primitive cellular features, such as the high nuclear/cytoplasm ratio and the presence of euchromatin, they are called very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs). In the appropriate in vivo models, VSELs differentiate into long-term repopulating HSCs, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), lung epithelial cells, cardiomyocytes and gametes. In this review, we discuss the most recent data from our laboratory and other groups regarding the optimal isolation procedures and describe the updated molecular characteristics of VSELs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Myung Shin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Malwina Suszynska
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Kasia Mierzejewska
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Janina Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Stem Cell Institute at James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, 500 South Floyd Street, Room 107, Louisville, KY 40202, USA. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gallicano GI. Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells: Are They Real? Stem Cells Dev 2013:scd.2013.0454. [PMID: 24079658 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2013.0454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- G Ian Gallicano
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center , Washington, District of Columbia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) represent a real challenge in stem cell biology: recent pros and cons in the midst of a lively debate. Leukemia 2013; 28:473-84. [PMID: 24018851 PMCID: PMC3948156 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2013.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The concept that adult tissue, including bone marrow (BM), contains early-development cells with broader differentiation potential has again been recently challenged. In response, we would like to review the accumulated evidence from several independent laboratories that adult tissues, including BM, harbor a population of very rare stem cells that may cross germ layers in their differentiation potential. Thus, the BM stem cell compartment hierarchy needs to be revisited. These dormant, early-development cells that our group described as very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) most likely overlap with similar populations of stem cells that have been identified in adult tissues by other investigators as the result of various experimental strategies and have been given various names. As reported, murine VSELs have some pluripotent stem cell characteristics. Moreover, they display several epiblast/germline markers that suggest their embryonic origin and developmental deposition in adult BM. Moreover, at the molecular level, changes in expression of parentally imprinted genes (for example, Igf2–H19) and resistance to insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) regulates their quiescent state in adult tissues. In several emergency situations related to organ damage, VSELs can be activated and mobilized into peripheral blood, and in appropriate animal models they contribute to tissue organ/regeneration. Interestingly, their number correlates with lifespan in mice, and they may also be involved in some malignancies. VSELs have been successfully isolated in several laboratories; however, some investigators experience problems with their isolation.
Collapse
|
44
|
Stimpfel M, Skutella T, Cvjeticanin B, Meznaric M, Dovc P, Novakovic S, Cerkovnik P, Vrtacnik-Bokal E, Virant-Klun I. Isolation, characterization and differentiation of cells expressing pluripotent/multipotent markers from adult human ovaries. Cell Tissue Res 2013; 354:593-607. [PMID: 23820736 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1677-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells are still generally accepted not to exist in adult human ovaries, although increasing studies confirm the presence of pluripotent/multipotent stem cells in adult mammalian ovaries, including those of humans. The aim of this study is to isolate, characterize and differentiate in vitro stem cells that originate from the adult human ovarian cortex and that express markers of pluripotency/multipotency. After enzymatic degradation of small ovarian cortex biopsies retrieved from 18 women, ovarian cell cultures were successfully established from 17 and the formation of cell colonies was observed. The presence of cells/colonies expressing some markers of pluripotency (alkaline phosphatase, surface antigen SSEA-4, OCT4, SOX-2, NANOG, LIN28, STELLA), germinal lineage (DDX4/VASA) and multipotency (M-CAM/CD146, Thy-1/CD90, STRO-1) was confirmed by various methods. Stem cells from the cultures, including small round SSEA-4-positive cells with diameters of up to 4 μm, showed a relatively high degree of plasticity. We were able to differentiate them in vitro into various types of somatic cells of all three germ layers. However, these cells did not form teratoma when injected into immunodeficient mice. Our results thus show that ovarian tissue is a potential source of stem cells with a pluripotent/multipotent character for safe application in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Stimpfel
- Reproductive Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000, Ljubljana, SI, Slovenia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Intrinsic ability of adult stem cell in skeletal muscle: an effective and replenishable resource to the establishment of pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cells Int 2013; 2013:420164. [PMID: 23818907 PMCID: PMC3684130 DOI: 10.1155/2013/420164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells play an essential role in mammalian organ maintenance and repair throughout adulthood since they ensure that organs retain their ability to regenerate. The choice of cell fate by adult stem cells for cellular proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation into multiple lineages is critically important for the homeostasis and biological function of individual organs. Responses of stem cells to stress, injury, or environmental change are precisely regulated by intercellular and intracellular signaling networks, and these molecular events cooperatively define the ability of stem cell throughout life. Skeletal muscle tissue represents an abundant, accessible, and replenishable source of adult stem cells. Skeletal muscle contains myogenic satellite cells and muscle-derived stem cells that retain multipotent differentiation abilities. These stem cell populations have the capacity for long-term proliferation and high self-renewal. The molecular mechanisms associated with deficits in skeletal muscle and stem cell function have been extensively studied. Muscle-derived stem cells are an obvious, readily available cell resource that offers promise for cell-based therapy and various applications in the field of tissue engineering. This review describes the strategies commonly used to identify and functionally characterize adult stem cells, focusing especially on satellite cells, and discusses their potential applications.
Collapse
|
46
|
Mierzejewska K, Heo J, Kang JW, Kang H, Ratajczak J, Ratajczak MZ, Kucia M, Shin DM. Genome-wide analysis of murine bone marrow‑derived very small embryonic-like stem cells reveals that mitogenic growth factor signaling pathways play a crucial role in the quiescence and ageing of these cells. Int J Mol Med 2013; 32:281-90. [PMID: 23708325 PMCID: PMC3776718 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2013.1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been postulated that the most primitive population of stem cells, Oct4+Sca-1+Lin−CD45− very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), differentiate into tissue-committed stem cells in adult mice. However, Oct4+ VSELs remain quiescent in adult tissues and do not form teratomas. In thi study, we report the characteristics of the VSEL transcriptome by gene set enrichment analysis employing a microarray database established from 20 murine bone marrow-derived, FACS-sorted VSELs in comparison with hematopoietic stem cells and embryonic stem cells. In the Oct4+ VSELs, we observed the upregulation of tissue-specific gene sets and a gene set encoding the complement-coagulation cascade. By contrast, in the VSELs, we observed the downregulation of genes involved in the UV radiation response, mRNA processing and mitogenic growth factor signaling [e.g., insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor A (TRKA), as well as the ERK and PI3K pathways]. Employing leading-edge subset analysis and real-time PCR assays, we observed that several genes, such as growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2), son of sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1), SHC (Src homology 2 domain containing) transforming protein 1 (SHC1), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MAP2K1), v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 3 (AKT3), ELK1, ribosomal protein S6 kinase, 90kDa, polypeptide 3 (RPS6KA3), glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and casein kinase 2, alpha 1 polypeptide (CSNK2A1), which are involved in mitogenic growth factor signaling pathways, were commonly downregulated in the VSELs. Notably, this repression was reversed in the VSELs co-cultured over a C2C12 supportive cell-line, whereby they are induced to form VSEL-derived spheres (VSEL-DSs); thus, they are enriched, forming more differentiated stem cells. Therefore, we suggest that the repression of mitogenic growth factor signaling (e.g., through the IGF-1 receptor) may prevent uncontrolled Oct4+ VSEL proliferation and teratoma formation. Thus, restoring the responsiveness to mitogenic growth factors may be a crucial step in employing these cells in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Mierzejewska
- Stem Cell Institute at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Szade K, Bukowska-Strakova K, Nowak WN, Szade A, Kachamakova-Trojanowska N, Zukowska M, Jozkowicz A, Dulak J. Murine bone marrow Lin⁻Sca⁻1⁺CD45⁻ very small embryonic-like (VSEL) cells are heterogeneous population lacking Oct-4A expression. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63329. [PMID: 23696815 PMCID: PMC3656957 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Murine very small embryonic-like (VSEL) cells, defined by the Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-) phenotype and small size, were described as pluripotent cells and proposed to be the most primitive hematopoietic precursors in adult bone marrow. Although their isolation and potential application rely entirely on flow cytometry, the immunophenotype of VSELs has not been extensively characterized. Our aim was to analyze the possible heterogeneity of Lin(-)Sca(+)CD45(-) population and investigate the extent to which VSELs characteristics may overlap with that of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) or endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). The study evidenced that murine Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-) population was heterogeneous in terms of c-Kit and KDR expression. Accordingly, the c-Kit(+)KDR(-), c-Kit(-)KDR(+), and c-Kit(-)KDR(-) subpopulations could be distinguished, while c-Kit(+)KDR(+) events were very rare. The c-Kit(+)KDR(-) subset contained almost solely small cells, meeting the size criterion of VSELs, in contrast to relatively bigger c-Kit(-)KDR(+) cells. The c-Kit(-)KDR(-)FSC(low) subset was highly enriched in Annexin V-positive, apoptotic cells, hence omitted from further analysis. Importantly, using qRT-PCR, we evidenced lack of Oct-4A and Oct-4B mRNA expression either in whole adult murine bone marrow or in the sorted of Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-)FSC(low) population, even by single-cell qRT-PCR. We also found that the Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-)c-Kit(+) subset did not exhibit hematopoietic potential in a single cell-derived colony in vitro assay, although it comprised the Sca-1(+)c-Kit(+)Lin(-) (SKL) CD34(-)CD45(-)CD105(+) cells, expressing particular HSC markers. Co-culture of Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-)FSC(low) with OP9 cells did not induce hematopoietic potential. Further investigation revealed that SKL CD45(-)CD105(+) subset consisted of early apoptotic cells with fragmented chromatin, and could be contaminated with nuclei expelled from erythroblasts. Concluding, murine bone marrow Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-)FSC(low) cells are heterogeneous population, which do not express the pluripotency marker Oct-4A. Despite expression of some hematopoietic markers by a Lin(-)Sca-1(+)CD45(-)c-Kit(+)KDR(-) subset of VSELs, they do not display hematopoietic potential in a clonogenic assay and are enriched in early apoptotic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Szade
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Bukowska-Strakova
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Witold Norbert Nowak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Agata Szade
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Neli Kachamakova-Trojanowska
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Monika Zukowska
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Alicja Jozkowicz
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- * E-mail: (JD); (AJ)
| | - Jozef Dulak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- * E-mail: (JD); (AJ)
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Béguelin W, Popovic R, Teater M, Jiang Y, Bunting KL, Rosen M, Shen H, Yang SN, Wang L, Ezponda T, Martinez-Garcia E, Zhang H, Zhang Y, Verma SK, McCabe MT, Ott HM, Van Aller GS, Kruger RG, Liu Y, McHugh CF, Scott DW, Chung YR, Kelleher N, Shaknovich R, Creasy CL, Gascoyne RD, Wong KK, Cerchietti LC, Levine RL, Abdel-Wahab O, Licht JD, Elemento O, Melnick AM. EZH2 is required for germinal center formation and somatic EZH2 mutations promote lymphoid transformation. Cancer Cell 2013; 23:677-92. [PMID: 23680150 PMCID: PMC3681809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2013.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 614] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The EZH2 histone methyltransferase is highly expressed in germinal center (GC) B cells and targeted by somatic mutations in B cell lymphomas. Here, we find that EZH2 deletion or pharmacologic inhibition suppresses GC formation and functions. EZH2 represses proliferation checkpoint genes and helps establish bivalent chromatin domains at key regulatory loci to transiently suppress GC B cell differentiation. Somatic mutations reinforce these physiological effects through enhanced silencing of EZH2 targets. Conditional expression of mutant EZH2 in mice induces GC hyperplasia and accelerated lymphomagenesis in cooperation with BCL2. GC B cell (GCB)-type diffuse large B cell lymphomas (DLBCLs) are mostly addicted to EZH2 but not the more differentiated activated B cell (ABC)-type DLBCLs, thus clarifying the therapeutic scope of EZH2 targeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Béguelin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Relja Popovic
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Matt Teater
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Yanwen Jiang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Karen L. Bunting
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Monica Rosen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Hao Shen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Shao Ning Yang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Teresa Ezponda
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Eva Martinez-Garcia
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Haikuo Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Yupeng Zhang
- Departments of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Sharad K. Verma
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Michael T. McCabe
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Heidi M. Ott
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Glenn S. Van Aller
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Ryan G. Kruger
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Yan Liu
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Charles F. McHugh
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - David W. Scott
- Centre for Lymphoid Cancer and Departments of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, British Columbia Cancer Agency, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Young Rock Chung
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Neil Kelleher
- Departments of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Rita Shaknovich
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Caretha L. Creasy
- Cancer Epigenetics Discovery Performance Unit, Cancer Research, Oncology R&D, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 S. Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Randy D. Gascoyne
- Centre for Lymphoid Cancer and Departments of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, British Columbia Cancer Agency, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kwok-Kin Wong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Leandro C. Cerchietti
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Ross L. Levine
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jonathan D. Licht
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Correspondence: Ari M. Melnick, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Ave, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 212-746-7643; Fax: 212-746-8866; ; Olivier Elemento, PhD Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 646-962-5726; Fax: 646-962-0383; ; Jonathan D. Licht, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 5-123, IL 60611. Phone: 312-503-0985; Fax: 312-503-0189;
| | - Olivier Elemento
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Correspondence: Ari M. Melnick, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Ave, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 212-746-7643; Fax: 212-746-8866; ; Olivier Elemento, PhD Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 646-962-5726; Fax: 646-962-0383; ; Jonathan D. Licht, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 5-123, IL 60611. Phone: 312-503-0985; Fax: 312-503-0189;
| | - Ari M. Melnick
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Correspondence: Ari M. Melnick, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Ave, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 212-746-7643; Fax: 212-746-8866; ; Olivier Elemento, PhD Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1305 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021. Phone: 646-962-5726; Fax: 646-962-0383; ; Jonathan D. Licht, MD Division of Hematology/Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Chicago, 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 5-123, IL 60611. Phone: 312-503-0985; Fax: 312-503-0189;
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Virant-Klun I, Stimpfel M, Cvjeticanin B, Vrtacnik-Bokal E, Skutella T. Small SSEA-4-positive cells from human ovarian cell cultures: related to embryonic stem cells and germinal lineage? J Ovarian Res 2013; 6:24. [PMID: 23570331 PMCID: PMC3660272 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-6-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It has already been found that very small embyronic-like stem cells (VSELs) are present in adult human tissues and organs. The aim of this study was to find if there exists any similar population of cells in cell cultures of reproductive tissues and embryonic stem cells, and if these cells have any relation to pluripotency and germinal lineage. Methods and results Here we report that a population of small SSEA-4-positive cells with diameters of up to 4 μm was isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) from the human ovarian cell cultures after enzymatic degradation of adult cortex tissues. These small cells – putative ovarian stem cells – were also observed during cell culturing of up to 6 months and more. In general, small putative ovarian stem cells, isolated by FACS, showed a relatively low gene expression profile when compared to human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human adult fibroblasts; this may reflect the quiescent state of these cells. In spite of that, small putative ovarian stem cells expressed several genes related to primordial germ cells (PGCs), pluripotency and germinal lineage, including VASA. The PGC-related gene PRDM1 was strongly expressed in small putative ovarian stem cells; in both hESCs and fibroblasts it was significantly down-regulated. In addition, putative ovarian stem cells expressed other PGC-related genes, such as PRDM14 and DPPA3. Most of the pluripotency and germinal lineage-related genes were up-regulated in hESCs (except VASA). When compared to fibroblasts, there were several pluripotency-related genes, which were up-regulated in small putative ovarian stem cells. Similar populations of small cells were also isolated by FACS from human testicular and hESC cultures. Conclusions Our results confirm the potential embryonic-like character of small putative stem cells isolated from human adult ovaries and their possible relation to germinal lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, Ljubljana, 1000, Republic of Slovenia
| | - Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, Ljubljana, 1000, Republic of Slovenia
| | - Branko Cvjeticanin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, Ljubljana, 1000, Republic of Slovenia
| | - Eda Vrtacnik-Bokal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, Ljubljana, 1000, Republic of Slovenia
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kassmer SH, Krause DS. Very small embryonic-like cells: biology and function of these potential endogenous pluripotent stem cells in adult tissues. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 80:677-90. [PMID: 23440892 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 02/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like cells (VSELs), found in murine bone marrow and other adult tissues, are small, non-hematopoietic cells expressing markers of pluripotent embryonic and primordial germ cells. A similar cell type in humans has begun to be characterized, though with a slightly different phenotype and surface markers. Consistent with expression of pluripotency genes, murine VSELs differentiate into cell types from three germ-layer lineages in vitro, though pluripotency has yet to be shown at the single-cell level or in vivo. VSELs appear to be quiescent under steady state conditions, apparently due to partially erased imprinting and overexpression of cell cycle inhibitory genes. In vivo, VSELs can enter the cell cycle under stress conditions, but which factors regulate quiescence versus proliferation and self-renewal versus differentiation are as yet unknown, and in vitro conditions that induce proliferation and self-renewal have yet to be defined. Future experiments are needed to address whether a VSEL niche actively regulates quiescence in vivo or quiescence is cell autonomous under steady state conditions. Insights into these mechanisms may help to address whether or not VSELs could play a role in regenerative medicine in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susannah H Kassmer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | |
Collapse
|