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
|
Wang X, Kim M, Jung KH, Chai YG, Binas B. Defined Conditions Control the Morphological Dualism of Rat Primitive Extraembryonic Endoderm Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2023; 32:731-746. [PMID: 37823730 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2023.0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Rat primitive extraembryonic endoderm (pXEN) stem cell lines indefinitely preserve the characteristic features of the early extraembryonic endoderm (ExEn) in vitro, but require unknown serum factors and exhibit a hybrid (mesenchymal-epithelial) phenotype. We report two chemically defined conditions that differ by the addition of the cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (Lif) and the β-catenin-stabilizing drug Chir99021, and enable permanent self-renewal as mesenchymal and epithelial morphotypes, respectively. The morphotypes are interconvertible and equipotent, as shown by the formation of well-differentiated organoids. Surprisingly, the proliferation of both morphotypes requires Lif-type Gp130/Stat3 signaling (autocrine in the absence of added Lif) and noncanonical Wnt signaling (autocrine). In addition, the epithelial version requires β-catenin for proliferation and morphology. Interestingly, the mesenchymal cells also express key epithelial markers, but those are improperly structured and/or not functional, indicating a primed state. These results provide an improved platform for studying the proliferation and plasticity of the early ExEn, which occurs in mesenchymal and epithelial forms in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiong Wang
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjae Kim
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Hwa Jung
- Gwangmyeong Convergence Technology Campus of Korea Polytechnic II, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Gyu Chai
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| | - Bert Binas
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Burns TC, Quinones-Hinojosa A. Regenerative medicine for neurological diseases-will regenerative neurosurgery deliver? BMJ 2021; 373:n955. [PMID: 34162530 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine aspires to transform the future practice of medicine by providing curative, rather than palliative, treatments. Healing the central nervous system (CNS) remains among regenerative medicine's most highly prized but formidable challenges. "Regenerative neurosurgery" provides access to the CNS or its surrounding structures to preserve or restore neurological function. Pioneering efforts over the past three decades have introduced cells, neurotrophins, and genes with putative regenerative capacity into the CNS to combat neurodegenerative, ischemic, and traumatic diseases. In this review we critically evaluate the rationale, paradigms, and translational progress of regenerative neurosurgery, harnessing access to the CNS to protect, rejuvenate, or replace cell types otherwise irreversibly compromised by neurological disease. We discuss the evidence surrounding fetal, somatic, and pluripotent stem cell derived implants to replace endogenous neuronal and glial cell types and provide trophic support. Neurotrophin based strategies via infusions and gene therapy highlight the motivation to preserve neuronal circuits, the complex fidelity of which cannot be readily recreated. We specifically highlight ongoing translational efforts in Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, and spinal cord injury, using these to illustrate the principles, challenges, and opportunities of regenerative neurosurgery. Risks of associated procedures and novel neurosurgical trials are discussed, together with the ethical challenges they pose. After decades of efforts to develop and refine necessary tools and methodologies, regenerative neurosurgery is well positioned to advance treatments for refractory neurological diseases. Strategic multidisciplinary efforts will be critical to harness complementary technologies and maximize mechanistic feedback, accelerating iterative progress toward cures for neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry C Burns
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kim M, Zhong Y, Jung KH, Chai YG, Binas B. Basal-type lumenogenesis in extraembryonic endoderm stem cells models the early visceral endoderm. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.230607. [PMID: 31492758 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.230607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cultured rat primitive extraembryonic endoderm (pXEN) cells easily form free-floating multicellular vesicles de novo, exemplifying a poorly studied type of morphogenesis. Here, we reveal the underlying mechanism and the identity of the vesicles. We resolve the morphogenesis into vacuolization, vesiculation and maturation, and define the molecular characteristics and requirements of each step. Vacuolization is fueled by macropinocytosis and occurs by default if not blocked by high cell density or matrix proteins. Fine-tuned cell-cell contact then forms nascent three-cell vesicles with vacuole-derived lumina. In maturation, the vesicles complete epithelialization, expand via mitosis and continued fluid uptake, and differentiate further. The mature vesicles consist of a simple squamous epithelium with an apical-outside/basal-inside polarity that we trace back to the single cell stage. The polarity and gene expression pattern of the vesicles are similar to those of the early visceral endoderm. pXEN cells provide a useful in vitro model for study of matrix-independent, basal-type lumenogenesis and the physiology of the visceral endoderm.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minjae Kim
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Yixiang Zhong
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Hwa Jung
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Gyu Chai
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Bert Binas
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhong Y, Binas B. Transcriptome analysis shows ambiguous phenotypes of murine primitive endoderm-related stem cell lines. Genes Cells 2019; 24:324-331. [PMID: 30821040 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.12678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Primitive endoderm (PrE)-related cell lines (XEN, pXEN and nEnd cells) show key features of the PrE. By transcriptome analysis, we show: (a) Compared to embryonic stem cells, PrE-related cell lines are less in vivo like, although early nEnd cells are most similar to the PrE. (b) These cell lines show post-PrE features of parietal (XEN and pXEN cells) or visceral (nEnd cells) endoderm, likely driven by Tgf-β and Wnt/Activin signaling, respectively. (c) pXEN and nEnd cell lines additionally show pre-PrE features. Hence, neither pXEN nor nEnd cell cultures represent a distinct in vivo entity. Rather, their properties are compatible with mixed and hybrid phenotypes. Our findings indicate that pre-PrE, PrE and early post-PrE phenotypes result from different niches, which need to be better understood to derive cell lines that distinctly represent the early stages of the extraembryonic endoderm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixiang Zhong
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Convergence Technology, Hanyang University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Bert Binas
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Convergence Technology, Hanyang University, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhong Y, Choi T, Kim M, Jung KH, Chai YG, Binas B. Isolation of primitive mouse extraembryonic endoderm (pXEN) stem cell lines. Stem Cell Res 2018; 30:100-112. [PMID: 29843002 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mouse blastocysts contain the committed precursors of the extraembryonic endoderm (ExEn), which express the key transcription factor Oct4, depend on LIF/LIF-like factor-driven Jak/Stat signaling, and initially exhibit lineage plasticity. Previously described rat blastocyst-derived ExEn precursor-like cell lines (XENP cells/HypoSCs) also show these features, but equivalent mouse blastocyst-derived cell lines are lacking. We now present mouse blastocyst-derived cell lines, named primitive XEN (pXEN) cells, which share these and additional characteristics with the XENP cells/HypoSCs, but not with previously known mouse blastocyst-derived XEN cell lines. Otherwise, pXEN cells are highly similar to XEN cells by morphology, lineage-intrinsic differentiation potential, and multi-gene expression profile, although the pXEN cell profile correlates better with the blastocyst stage. Finally, we show that pXEN cells easily convert into XEN-like cells but not vice versa. The findings indicate that (i) pXEN cells are more representative than XEN cells of the blastocyst stage; (ii) mouse pXEN, rather than XEN, cells are homologs of rat XENP cells/HypoSCs, which we propose to call rat pXEN cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixiang Zhong
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Taewoong Choi
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjae Kim
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Hwa Jung
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Gyu Chai
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Bert Binas
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University (ERICA Campus), 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, Republic of Korea..
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Burns TC, Awad AJ, Li MD, Grant GA. Radiation-induced brain injury: low-hanging fruit for neuroregeneration. Neurosurg Focus 2017; 40:E3. [PMID: 27132524 DOI: 10.3171/2016.2.focus161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Brain radiation is a fundamental tool in neurooncology to improve local tumor control, but it leads to profound and progressive impairments in cognitive function. Increased attention to quality of life in neurooncology has accelerated efforts to understand and ameliorate radiation-induced cognitive sequelae. Such progress has coincided with a new understanding of the role of CNS progenitor cell populations in normal cognition and in their potential utility for the treatment of neurological diseases. The irradiated brain exhibits a host of biochemical and cellular derangements, including loss of endogenous neurogenesis, demyelination, and ablation of endogenous oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. These changes, in combination with a state of chronic neuroinflammation, underlie impairments in memory, attention, executive function, and acquisition of motor and language skills. Animal models of radiation-induced brain injury have demonstrated a robust capacity of both neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells to restore cognitive function after brain irradiation, likely through a combination of cell replacement and trophic effects. Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells exhibit a remarkable capacity to migrate, integrate, and functionally remyelinate damaged white matter tracts in a variety of preclinical models. The authors here critically address the opportunities and challenges in translating regenerative cell therapies from rodents to humans. Although valiant attempts to translate neuroprotective therapies in recent decades have almost uniformly failed, the authors make the case that harnessing human radiation-induced brain injury as a scientific tool represents a unique opportunity to both successfully translate a neuroregenerative therapy and to acquire tools to facilitate future restorative therapies for human traumatic and degenerative diseases of the central nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry C Burns
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Ahmed J Awad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York;,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine; and
| | - Matthew D Li
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Gerald A Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lo Nigro A, de Jaime-Soguero A, Khoueiry R, Cho DS, Ferlazzo GM, Perini I, Abon Escalona V, Aranguren XL, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Koh KP, Conaldi PG, Hu WS, Zwijsen A, Lluis F, Verfaillie CM. PDGFRα + Cells in Embryonic Stem Cell Cultures Represent the In Vitro Equivalent of the Pre-implantation Primitive Endoderm Precursors. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 8:318-333. [PMID: 28089671 PMCID: PMC5311469 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2016.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In early mouse pre-implantation development, primitive endoderm (PrE) precursors are platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) positive. Here, we demonstrated that cultured mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) express PDGFRα heterogeneously, fluctuating between a PDGFRα+ (PrE-primed) and a platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM1)-positive state (epiblast-primed). The two surface markers can be co-detected on a third subpopulation, expressing epiblast and PrE determinants (double-positive). In vitro, these subpopulations differ in their self-renewal and differentiation capability, transcriptional and epigenetic states. In vivo, double-positive cells contributed to epiblast and PrE, while PrE-primed cells exclusively contributed to PrE derivatives. The transcriptome of PDGFRα+ subpopulations differs from previously described subpopulations and shows similarities with early/mid blastocyst cells. The heterogeneity did not depend on PDGFRα but on leukemia inhibitory factor and fibroblast growth factor signaling and DNA methylation. Thus, PDGFRα+ cells represent the in vitro counterpart of in vivo PrE precursors, and their selection from cultured mESCs yields pure PrE precursors. Three subpopulations can be purified from mESC cultures by using PECAM1 and PDGFRα Expression of PDGFRα is associated with a molecular and epigenetic PrE signature PDGFRα+ cells are committed toward PrE derivatives in vitro and in vivo
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lo Nigro
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Ri.Med Foundation, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Advanced Biotechnologies, IRCCS-ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad Alta Specializzazione), Via Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Anchel de Jaime-Soguero
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rita Khoueiry
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dong Seong Cho
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue Southeast, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Giorgia Maria Ferlazzo
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilaria Perini
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vanesa Abon Escalona
- VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Human Genetics, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Xabier Lopez Aranguren
- Cell Therapy Program, Foundation for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Kian Peng Koh
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pier Giulio Conaldi
- Ri.Med Foundation, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Advanced Biotechnologies, IRCCS-ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad Alta Specializzazione), Via Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Wei-Shou Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 421 Washington Avenue Southeast, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - An Zwijsen
- VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Department of Human Genetics, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederic Lluis
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Catherine M Verfaillie
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Herestraat 49, Onderwijs en Navorsing 4, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Osteogenic Potential of Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells for Calvaria Bone Regeneration. Adv Med 2016; 2016:2803081. [PMID: 27239552 PMCID: PMC4864565 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2803081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteogenic cells derived from rat multipotent adult progenitor cells (rMAPCs) were investigated for their potential use in bone regeneration. rMAPCs are adult stem cells derived from bone marrow that have a high proliferation capacity and the differentiation potential to multiple lineages. They may also offer immunomodulatory properties favorable for applications for regenerative medicine. rMAPCs were cultivated as single cells or as 3D aggregates in osteogenic media for up to 38 days, and their differentiation to bone lineage was then assessed by immunostaining of osteocalcin and collagen type I and by mineralization assays. The capability of rMAPCs in facilitating bone regeneration was evaluated in vivo by the direct implantation of multipotent adult progenitor cell (MAPC) aggregates in rat calvarial defects. Bone regeneration was examined radiographically, histologically, and histomorphometrically. Results showed that rMAPCs successfully differentiated into osteogenic lineage by demonstrating mineralized extracellular matrix formation in vitro and induced new bone formation by the effect of rMAPC aggregates in vivo. These outcomes confirm that rMAPCs have a good osteogenic potential and provide insights into rMAPCs as a novel adult stem cell source for bone regeneration.
Collapse
|
10
|
Contribution of different bone marrow-derived cell types in endometrial regeneration using an irradiated murine model. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:1596-605.e1. [PMID: 25813284 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the involvement of seven types of bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) in the endometrial regeneration in mice after total body irradiation. DESIGN Prospective experimental animal study. SETTING University research laboratories. ANIMAL(S) β-Actin-green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic C57BL/6-Tg (CAG-EGFP) and C57BL/6J female mice. INTERVENTION(S) The BMDCs were isolated from CAG-EGFP mice: unfractionated bone marrow cells, hematopoietic progenitor cells, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In addition three murine GFP(+) cell lines were used: mouse Oct4 negative BMDC multipotent adult progenitor cells (mOct4(-)BM-MAPCs), BMDC hypoblast-like stem cells (mOct4(+) BM-HypoSCs), and MSCs. All cell types were injected through the tail vein of 9 Gy-irradiated C57BL/6J female mice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Flow cytometry, cell culture, bone marrow transplantation assays, histologic evaluation, immunohistochemistry, proliferation, apoptosis, and statistical analysis. RESULT(S) After 12 weeks, histologic analysis revealed that uteri of mice with mOct4(-)BM-MAPCs and MSC line were significantly smaller than uteri of mice with uncultured BMDCs or mOct4(+) BM-HypoSCs. The percentage of engrafted GFP(+) cells ranged from 0.13%-4.78%. Expression of Ki-67 was lower in all uteri from BMDCs treated mice than in the control, whereas TUNEL(+) cells were increased in the EPCs and mOct4(+)BM-HypoSCs groups. CONCLUSION(S) Low number of some BMDCs can be found in regenerating endometrium, including stromal, endotelial, and epithelial compartments. Freshly isolated MSCs and EPCs together with mOct4(+) BM-HypoSCs induced the greatest degree of regeneration, whereas culture isolated MSCs and mOct4(-)BM-MAPCs transplantation may have an inhibitory effect on endometrial regeneration.
Collapse
|
11
|
Burns TC, Verfaillie CM. From mice to mind: Strategies and progress in translating neuroregeneration. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 759:90-100. [PMID: 25814255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Decisions about what experimental therapies are advanced to clinical trials are based almost exclusively on findings in preclinical animal studies. Over the past 30 years, animal models have forecast the success of hundreds of neuroprotective pharmacological therapies for stroke, Alzheimer׳s disease, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Yet almost without exception, all have failed. Rapid advances in stem cell technologies have raised new hopes that these neurological diseases may one day be treatable. Still, how can neuroregenerative therapies be translated into clinical realities if available animal models are such poor surrogates of human disease? To address this question we discuss human and rodent neurogenesis, evaluate mechanisms of action for cellular therapies and describe progress in translating neuroregeneration to date. We conclude that not only are appropriate animal models critical to the development of safe and effective therapies, but that the multiple mechanisms of stem cell-mediated therapies may be particularly well suited to the mechanistically diverse nature of central nervous system diseases in mice and man.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terry C Burns
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Leten C, Roobrouck VD, Struys T, Burns TC, Dresselaers T, Vande Velde G, Santermans J, Lo Nigro A, Ibrahimi A, Gijsbers R, Eggermont K, Lambrichts I, Verfaillie CM, Himmelreich U. Controlling and Monitoring Stem Cell Safety In Vivo in an Experimental Rodent Model. Stem Cells 2014; 32:2833-44. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.1819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Leten
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Valerie D. Roobrouck
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Institute Leuven; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Tom Struys
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Biomedical Research Institute, Lab of Histology; University of Hasselt; Belgium
| | - Terry C. Burns
- Department of Neurosurgery; Stanford University; California USA
| | - Tom Dresselaers
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - G. Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Jeanine Santermans
- Biomedical Research Institute, Lab of Histology; University of Hasselt; Belgium
| | - Antonio Lo Nigro
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Institute Leuven; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Abdelilah Ibrahimi
- Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Leuven Viral Vector Core; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Rik Gijsbers
- Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Leuven Viral Vector Core; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Kristel Eggermont
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Institute Leuven; KU Leuven; Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Biomedical Research Institute, Lab of Histology; University of Hasselt; Belgium
| | | | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology; KU Leuven; Belgium
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center; KU Leuven; Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ketkar-Atre A, Struys T, Soenen SJ, Lambrichts I, Verfaillie CM, De Cuyper M, Himmelreich U. Variability in contrast agent uptake by different but similar stem cell types. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:4577-91. [PMID: 24399873 PMCID: PMC3876490 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s51588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The need to track and evaluate the fate of transplanted cells is an important issue in regenerative medicine. In order to accomplish this, pre-labelling cells with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents is a well-established method. Uptake of MRI contrast agents by non-phagocytic stem cells, and factors such as cell homeostasis or the adverse effects of contrast agents on cell biology have been extensively studied, but in the context of nanoparticle (NP)-specific parameters. Here, we have studied three different types of NPs (Endorem®, magnetoliposomes [MLs], and citrate coated C-200) to label relatively larger, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and, much smaller yet faster proliferating, multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs). Both cell types are similar, as they are isolated from bone marrow and have substantial regenerative potential, which make them interesting candidates for comparative experiments. Using NPs with different surface coatings and sizes, we found that differences in the proliferative and morphological characteristics of the cells used in the study are mainly responsible for the fate of endocytosed iron, intracellular iron concentration, and cytotoxic responses. The quantitative analysis, using high-resolution electron microscopy images, demonstrated a strong relationship between cell volume/surface, uptake, and cytotoxicity. Interestingly, uptake and toxicity trends are reversed if intracellular concentrations, and not amounts, are considered. This indicates that more attention should be paid to cellular parameters such as cell size and proliferation rate in comparative cell-labeling studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Ketkar-Atre
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Struys
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium ; Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Stefaan J Soenen
- Lab for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Catherine M Verfaillie
- Interdepartmental Stem Cell Institute, O&N IV, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marcel De Cuyper
- Laboratory of BioNanoColloids, Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Binas B, Verfaillie CM. Concise review: Bone marrow meets blastocyst: lessons from an unlikely encounter. Stem Cells 2013; 31:620-6. [PMID: 23169605 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 10/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This article discusses the implications of the recent discovery that rat bone marrow-derived multipotent adult progenitor cells (rMAPCs), a cell type with broad somatic differentiation potential but of uncertain lineage identity, are similar to rat blastocyst-derived extraembryonic endoderm precursor (rXENP) cells, which appear to represent the committed extraembryonic endoderm precursor of the blastocyst. It was found that under rMAPC culture conditions, rXENP cells can be homogeneously cultured and similar cells, named rat hypoblast stem cells (rHypoSCs), can be derived from rat blastocysts more rapidly and directly. The detailed comparison of rHypoSCs, rXENP cells, and rMAPCs revealed highly similar gene expression profiles and developmental potentials. The significance of these findings for embryology, stem cell biology, and medicine is discussed. Specifically, the results assign a lineage identity to rMAPCs, indicate that rMAPCs originated by environmental reprogramming, and imply that HypoSCs, XENP cells, and MAPCs possess lineage plasticity. The MAPC-HypoSC relation also strengthens the consistency of rat and mouse embryology and consequently the idea that HypoSCs represent the committed extraembryonic endoderm precursor of the blastocyst. On this basis, it is argued that the direct comparison of HypoSCs (now available in pure form) with embryonic stem cells will be highly useful for the understanding of pluripotency and plasticity. Finally, the new findings suggest an explanation for an obscure observation on stem cell-induced transplantation tolerance. Thus, the HypoSC/XENP/MAPC phenotype provides a unique but broadly instructive model with which to study stem cell plasticity, reprogramming, and transplantation tolerance, all central themes in regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bert Binas
- Division of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Kyeonggi-do, South Korea.
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Immunological characteristics of human mesenchymal stem cells and multipotent adult progenitor cells. Immunol Cell Biol 2013; 91:32-9. [PMID: 23295415 PMCID: PMC3540326 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2012.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Somatic, also termed adult, stem cells are highly attractive biomedical cell candidates because of their extensive replication potential and functional multilineage differentiation capacity. They can be used for drug and toxicity screenings in preclinical studies, as in vitro model to study differentiation or for regenerative medicine to aid in the repair of tissues or replace tissues that are lost upon disease, injury or ageing. Multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are two types of adult stem cells derived from bone marrow that are currently being used clinically for tissue regeneration and for their immunomodulatory and trophic effects. This review will give an overview of the phenotypic and functional differences between human MAPCs and MSCs, with a strong emphasis on their immunological characteristics. Finally, we will discuss the clinical studies in which MSCs and MAPCs are already used.
Collapse
|
16
|
Kumar A, Lo Nigro A, Gysemans C, Cai Q, Esguerra C, Nelson-Holte M, Heremans Y, Jiménez-González M, Porciuncula A, Mathieu C, Binas B, Heimberg H, Prosper F, Hering B, Verfaillie CM, Barajas M. Reversal of hyperglycemia by insulin-secreting rat bone marrow- and blastocyst-derived hypoblast stem cell-like cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63491. [PMID: 23671681 PMCID: PMC3650069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
β-cell replacement may efficiently cure type 1 diabetic (T1D) patients whose insulin-secreting β-cells have been selectively destroyed by autoantigen-reactive T cells. To generate insulin-secreting cells we used two cell sources: rat multipotent adult progenitor cells (rMAPC) and the highly similar rat extra-embryonic endoderm precursor (rXEN-P) cells isolated under rMAPC conditions from blastocysts (rHypoSC). rMAPC/rHypoSC were sequentially committed to definitive endoderm, pancreatic endoderm, and β-cell like cells. On day 21, 20% of rMAPC/rHypoSC progeny expressed Pdx1 and C-peptide. rMAPCr/HypoSC progeny secreted C-peptide under the stimulus of insulin agonist carbachol, and was inhibited by the L-type voltage-dependent calcium channel blocker nifedipine. When rMAPC or rHypoSC differentiated d21 progeny were grafted under the kidney capsule of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nude mice, hyperglycemia reversed after 4 weeks in 6/10 rMAPC- and 5/10 rHypoSC-transplanted mice. Hyperglycemia recurred within 24 hours of graft removal and the histological analysis of the retrieved grafts revealed presence of Pdx1-, Nkx6.1- and C-peptide-positive cells. The ability of both rMAPC and HypoSC to differentiate to functional β-cell like cells may serve to gain insight into signals that govern β-cell differentiation and aid in developing culture systems to commit other (pluripotent) stem cells to clinically useful β-cells for cell therapy of T1D.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anujith Kumar
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Domlur, Bangalore, India
| | - Antonio Lo Nigro
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Conny Gysemans
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Qing Cai
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Camila Esguerra
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Molly Nelson-Holte
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yves Heremans
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Diabetes Research Center, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - María Jiménez-González
- Hematology and Cell Therapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra and Foundation for Applied Medical Research, Division of Oncology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Angelo Porciuncula
- Hematology and Cell Therapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra and Foundation for Applied Medical Research, Division of Oncology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Chantal Mathieu
- Laboratory for Experimental Medicine and Endocrinology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bert Binas
- Division of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Harry Heimberg
- Diabetes Research Center, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Felipe Prosper
- Hematology and Cell Therapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra and Foundation for Applied Medical Research, Division of Oncology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Bernhard Hering
- Diabetes Institute for Immunology and Transplantation. University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Catherine M. Verfaillie
- Stamcel Instituut Leuven, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail: (CMV); (MB)
| | - Miguel Barajas
- Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Hematology and Cell Therapy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra and Foundation for Applied Medical Research, Division of Oncology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- * E-mail: (CMV); (MB)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Han D, Binas B. Monoallelic gene targeting in hypoblast stem cells reveals X chromosome inactivation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 427:563-7. [PMID: 23022182 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.09.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2012] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We recently isolated hypoblast stem cells (HypoSC), which are related to embryonic stem (ES) cells. ES cells efficiently perform homologous recombination (HR) and lack X chromosome inactivation (Xi), but it is unknown whether the same applies to HypoSC. Using the X-linked hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT) gene, we find that HypoSC perform HR with similar frequency as ES cells. Monoallelic targeting in female HypoSC eliminated HPRT gene expression, implying epigenetic inactivation of the other allele. Although density-induced differentiation complicated selection, the targeted clones maintained their original properties. These results will facilitate targeted genetic manipulation of HypoSC and the study of Xi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongjun Han
- Division of Molecular & Life Science, College of Science & Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 426-791, South Korea
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sohni A, Mulas F, Ferrazzi F, Luttun A, Bellazzi R, Huylebroeck D, Ekker SC, Verfaillie CM. TGFβ1-induced Baf60c regulates both smooth muscle cell commitment and quiescence. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47629. [PMID: 23110084 PMCID: PMC3482188 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) play critical roles in a number of diseases; however, the molecular mechanism underlying their development is unclear. Although the role of TGFβ1 signaling in SMC development is well established, the downstream molecular signals are not fully understood. We used several rat multipotent adult progenitor cell ((r)MAPC) lines that express levels of Oct4 mRNA similar to hypoblast stem cells (HypoSC), and can differentiate robustly to mesodermal and endodermal cell types. TGFβ1 alone, or with PDGF-BB, induces differentiation of rMAPCs to SMCs, which expressed structural SMC proteins, including α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), and contribute to the SMC coat of blood vessels in vivo. A genome-wide time-course transcriptome analysis revealed that transcripts of Baf60c, part of the SWI/SNF actin binding chromatin remodeling complex D-3 (SMARCD3/BAF60c), were significantly induced during MAPC-SMC differentiation. We demonstrated that BAF60c is a necessary co-regulator of TGFβ1 mediated induction of SMC genes. Knock-down of Baf60c decreased SMC gene expression in rMAPCs whereas ectopic expression of Baf60c was sufficient to commit rMAPCs to SMCs in the absence of exogenous cytokines. TGFβ1 activates Baf60c via the direct binding of SMAD2/3 complexes to the Baf60c promoter region. Chromatin- and co-immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that regulation of SMC genes by BAF60c is mediated via interaction with SRF binding CArG box-containing promoter elements in SMC genes. We noted that compared with TGFβ1, Baf60c overexpression in rMAPC yielded SMC with a more immature phenotype. Similarly, Baf60c induced an immature phenotype in rat aortic SMCs marked by increased cell proliferation and decreased contractile marker expression. Thus, Baf60c is important for TGFβ-mediated commitment of primitive stem cells (rMAPCs) to SMCs and is associated with induction of a proliferative state of quiescent SMCs. The MAPC-SMC differentiation system may be useful for identification of additional critical (co-)regulators of SMC development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Sohni
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Development and Regeneration, K.U.Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Genetics Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Francesca Mulas
- Center for Tissue Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fulvia Ferrazzi
- Dipartimento di Informatica e Sistemistica, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Aernout Luttun
- Center for Molecular and Vascular Biology, K.U.Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Riccardo Bellazzi
- Center for Tissue Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Dipartimento di Informatica e Sistemistica, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Danny Huylebroeck
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Celgen), Department of Development and Regeneration, K.U.Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stephen C. Ekker
- Genetics Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Catherine M. Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Development and Regeneration, K.U.Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Genetics Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|