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Darwish M, El Hajj R, Khayat L, Alaaeddine N. Stem Cell Secretions as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1252-1272. [PMID: 38630359 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10724-4] [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] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness characterized by impaired social interaction and restricted repetitive behaviors or interests. The rising prevalence of ASD diagnosis has triggered a surge in research into investigating the underlying neuropathological processes and finding new therapeutic approaches. ASD is characterized by neuroinflammation and dysregulation of neuro-immune cross-talk, which suggests that stem cell treatment might be a potential therapeutic approach. The beneficial and restorative effects of stem cells are mainly due to their paracrine activity, in which stem cells generate and release extracellular vesicles such as exosomes and distinct secreted non-vesicle soluble proteins, including, growth factors, chemokines, cytokines, and immunomodulatory molecules referred to as the Secretome. In this paper, we reviewed the existing research exploring the therapeutic potential of stem cell secretome focusing on their role in addressing ASD pathology. Furthermore, we proposed a comprehensive mechanism of action for stem cell secretions, encompassing the broader secretome as well as the specific contribution of exosomes, in alleviating ASD neuropathology. Across the reviewed studies, exosomes and secreted soluble factors of the transplanted stem cell demonstrate a potential efficacy in ameliorating autistic-like behaviors. The proposed mechanism of action involves the modulation of signaling pathways implicated in neuroinflammation, angiogenesis, cellular apoptosis, and immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Darwish
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Nada Alaaeddine
- Dean of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business & Science, Beirut, Lebanon.
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2
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Salemi M, Schillaci FA, Lanza G, Marchese G, Salluzzo MG, Cordella A, Caniglia S, Bruccheri MG, Truda A, Greco D, Ferri R, Romano C. Transcriptome Study in Sicilian Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1402. [PMID: 39061976 PMCID: PMC11274004 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
ASD is a complex condition primarily rooted in genetics, although influenced by environmental, prenatal, and perinatal risk factors, ultimately leading to genetic and epigenetic alterations. These mechanisms may manifest as inflammatory, oxidative stress, hypoxic, or ischemic damage. To elucidate potential variances in gene expression in ASD, a transcriptome analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells was conducted via RNA-seq on 12 ASD patients and 13 healthy controls, all of Sicilian ancestry to minimize environmental confounds. A total of 733 different statistically significant genes were identified between the two cohorts. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Ontology (GO) terms were employed to explore the pathways influenced by differentially expressed mRNAs. GSEA revealed GO pathways strongly associated with ASD, namely the GO Biological Process term "Response to Oxygen-Containing Compound". Additionally, the GO Cellular Component pathway "Mitochondrion" stood out among other pathways, with differentially expressed genes predominantly affiliated with this specific pathway, implicating the involvement of different mitochondrial functions in ASD. Among the differentially expressed genes, FPR2 was particularly highlighted, belonging to three GO pathways. FPR2 can modulate pro-inflammatory responses, with its intracellular cascades triggering the activation of several kinases, thus suggesting its potential utility as a biomarker of pro-inflammatory processes in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Salemi
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Francesca A. Schillaci
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Lanza
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
- Department of Surgery and Medical—Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Marchese
- Genomix4Life S.r.l., 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.M.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Salluzzo
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Angela Cordella
- Genomix4Life S.r.l., 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.M.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Salvatore Caniglia
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Maria Grazia Bruccheri
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Anna Truda
- Genomix4Life S.r.l., 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.M.); (A.C.); (A.T.)
- Genome Research Center for Health—CRGS, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
| | - Donatella Greco
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Corrado Romano
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy; (F.A.S.); (G.L.); (M.G.S.); (S.C.); (M.G.B.); (D.G.); (R.F.); (C.R.)
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
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Bui HTP, Huy Do D, Ly HTT, Tran KT, Le HTT, Nguyen KT, Pham LTD, Le HD, Le VS, Mukhopadhyay A, Nguyen LT. De novo copy number variations in candidate genomic regions in patients of severe autism spectrum disorder in Vietnam. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290936. [PMID: 38451970 PMCID: PMC10919600 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder with a prevalence of around 1% children worldwide and characterized by patient behaviour (communication, social interaction, and personal development). Data on the efficacy of diagnostic tests using copy number variations (CNVs) in candidate genes in ASD is currently around 10% but it is overrepresented by patients of Caucasian background. We report here that the diagnostic success of de novo candidate CNVs in Vietnamese ASD patients is around 6%. We recruited one hundred trios (both parents and a child) where the child was clinically diagnosed with ASD while the parents were not affected. We performed genetic screening to exclude RETT syndrome and Fragile X syndrome and performed genome-wide DNA microarray (aCGH) on all probands and their parents to analyse for de novo CNVs. We detected 1708 non-redundant CNVs in 100 patients and 118 (7%) of them were de novo. Using the filter for known CNVs from the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) database, we identified six CNVs (one gain and five loss CNVs) in six patients (3 males and 3 females). Notably, 3 of our patients had a deletion involving the SHANK3 gene-which is the highest compared to previous reports. This is the first report of candidate CNVs in ASD patients from Vietnam and provides the framework for building a CNV based test as the first tier screening for clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoa Thi Phuong Bui
- High Technology Center, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Duong Huy Do
- High Technology Center, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Ha Thi Thanh Ly
- High Technology Center, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Kien Trung Tran
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thi Thanh Le
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Kien Trung Nguyen
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Linh Thi Dieu Pham
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Hau Duc Le
- Big Data Institute, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Vinh Sy Le
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
- University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University Hanoi, Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Arijit Mukhopadhyay
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, Biomedical Research Centre, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Liem Thanh Nguyen
- Vinmec Research Institute of Stem Cell and Gene Technology, Vinmec Health Care System, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi, Vietnam
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Shamim S, Khan N, Greene DL, Habiba UE, Umer A. The promise of autologous and allogeneic cellular therapies in the clinical trials of autism spectrum disorder. Regen Med 2023; 18:347-361. [PMID: 36935631 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2022-0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a consortium of developmental conditions. As scientists have not yet identified the exact underlying cause for these disorders, it is not easy to narrow down a singular therapy to propose a reliable cure. The preponderance of research suggests that stem-cell therapy improves aspects of outcome measure scales in patients with ASD; therefore, future studies should give us more confidence in the results. This overview considers the data that have emerged from the small set of published trials conducted using different approaches in stem-cell therapy for ASD, evaluates their results and proposes additional steps that could be taken if this field of endeavor is to be pursued further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Shamim
- Bello Bio Labs & Therapeutics (SMC) Pvt. Ltd, Jahangir Multiplex, Peshawar Road, Sector H-13 Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Nasar Khan
- Bello Bio Labs & Therapeutics (SMC) Pvt. Ltd, Jahangir Multiplex, Peshawar Road, Sector H-13 Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.,R3 Medical Research LLC, 10045 East Dynamite Boulevard Suite 260, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, United States of America
| | - David L Greene
- Bello Bio Labs & Therapeutics (SMC) Pvt. Ltd, Jahangir Multiplex, Peshawar Road, Sector H-13 Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.,R3 Medical Research LLC, 10045 East Dynamite Boulevard Suite 260, Scottsdale, AZ 85262, United States of America
| | - Umm E Habiba
- Bello Bio Labs & Therapeutics (SMC) Pvt. Ltd, Jahangir Multiplex, Peshawar Road, Sector H-13 Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Amna Umer
- Bello Bio Labs & Therapeutics (SMC) Pvt. Ltd, Jahangir Multiplex, Peshawar Road, Sector H-13 Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
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Smirnov V, Neznanov N, Morozova Y, Makarov I, Emelina D, Gasanov R, Bazanovich S. Allogeneic umbilical cord blood cell therapy for children with autism: safety and efficacy of the method. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2021; 121:31-37. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202112111231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Anwar I, Ashfaq UA, Shokat Z. Therapeutic Potential of Umbilical Cord Stem Cells for Liver Regeneration. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 15:219-232. [PMID: 32077830 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200220122536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The liver is a vital organ for life and the only internal organ that is capable of natural regeneration. Although the liver has high regeneration capacity, excessive hepatocyte death can lead to liver failure. Various factors can lead to liver damage including drug abuse, some natural products, alcohol, hepatitis, and autoimmunity. Some models for studying liver injury are APAP-based model, Fas ligand (FasL), D-galactosamine/endotoxin (Gal/ET), Concanavalin A, and carbon tetrachloride-based models. The regeneration of the liver can be carried out using umbilical cord blood stem cells which have various advantages over other stem cell types used in liver transplantation. UCB-derived stem cells lack tumorigenicity, have karyotype stability and high immunomodulatory, low risk of graft versus host disease (GVHD), low risk of transmitting somatic mutations or viral infections, and low immunogenicity. They are readily available and their collection is safe and painless. This review focuses on recent development and modern trends in the use of umbilical cord stem cells for the regeneration of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifrah Anwar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Usman A Ashfaq
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Zeeshan Shokat
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Sharma AK, Gokulchandran N, Kulkarni PP, Sane HM, Sharma R, Jose A, Badhe PB. Cell transplantation as a novel therapeutic strategy for autism spectrum disorders: a clinical study. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF STEM CELLS 2020; 9:89-100. [PMID: 33489466 PMCID: PMC7811933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders [ASD] is a lifelong disability mainly affecting the development, communication, social interaction and behavior of an individual. Cell transplantation is emerging as a potential therapeutic strategy for ASD. Our previously published proof of concept study showed beneficial effects of cell transplantation in ASD. This study shows effect of cell transplantation in a larger sample size of ASD patients. METHODS 254 patients diagnosed with ASD on DSM V criteria were enrolled in this open label non-randomized study. The intervention included intrathecal transplantation of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells and neurorehabilitation. On mean follow up of 7.50 months, percentage analysis was performed on all symptomatic changes. Changes in outcome measures, Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism [ISAA] and Childhood Autism Rating Scale [CARS], were analyzed statistically using Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. Comparative analysis of Positron Emission Tomography [PET CT] scan brain, performed before and 6 months after intervention, was done in 86 patients to monitor the outcome at cellular level. Change in the standardized uptake values was statistically evaluated using T-Test [P≤0.05]. RESULTS Improvements were observed in eye contact, attention and concentration, hyperactivity, sitting tolerance, social interaction, stereotypical behavior, aggressiveness, communication, speech, command following and self-stimulatory behavior. Statistically significant improvement was observed in scores of ISAA and CARS after intervention. A significantly better outcome of the intervention was found in patients at younger age and with shorter duration of disease [<5 years from time of diagnosis]. 86 patients who underwent a repeat PET CT scan showed improved brain metabolism after intervention in areas which correlated to the symptomatic changes. No major procedure related adverse events were recorded. However, 5 patients, with history of seizure and abnormal EEG, had an episode of seizure which was managed using medications. Outcome of intervention in these patients was not affected by seizures as improvements were observed in them. CONCLUSION The results of this study indicate that autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells in combination with neurorehabilitation are a safe and effective treatment modality for ASD. It improves the quality of life of patients and helps them to integrate in mainstream lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok K Sharma
- Department of Medical Services and Clinical Research, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Nandini Gokulchandran
- Department of Medical Services and Clinical Research, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Pooja P Kulkarni
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Hemangi M Sane
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Ridhima Sharma
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Alitta Jose
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Prerna B Badhe
- Department of Regenerative Laboratory Services, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
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Crowdfunding, stem cell interventions and autism spectrum disorder: comparing campaigns related to an international "stem cell clinic" and US academic medical center. Cytotherapy 2020; 23:198-202. [PMID: 33082092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Studies examining crowdfunding campaigns for stem cell interventions have typically focused on campaigns seeking funds to send individuals to businesses marketing unlicensed and unproven stem cell products. However, some crowdfunding campaigns identify academic medical centers as destinations for individuals seeking access to stem cell products provided either in clinical studies or on an expanded access basis. This study examines crowdfunding campaigns seeking funds to enable children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder access to stem cell interventions. METHODS This study compares and contrasts crowdfunding campaigns, identifying an international stem cell clinic marketing a purported umbilical cord blood-derived stem cell treatment for autism spectrum disorder, with campaigns soliciting donations intended to help children with autism spectrum disorder either participate in clinical studies or obtain expanded access to stem cell products provided at an academic medical center in the US. RESULTS Campaigns connected to both sites contained inaccurate claims. However, campaigns identifying the international clinic as the intended destination site made stronger claims about efficacy and were more reliant upon testimonials than campaigns listing the US-based academic medical center as the planned clinical site. Acknowledging these important distinctions, clinical studies and press releases associated with the academic medical center played an important role in lending the perception of credibility to the putative stem cell treatments marketed by the international clinic. CONCLUSIONS The study's findings emphasize how important it is for researchers at academic medical centers and comparable research facilities to avoid engaging in stem cell hyperbole; highlight the preliminary nature of early clinical studies; ensure that any claims about safety and efficacy are based upon robust and reliable evidence; and promote responsible science communication by exercising restraint when crafting press releases, conducting media interviews and otherwise publicizing clinical research findings.
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You MJ, Bang M, Park HS, Yang B, Jang KB, Yoo J, Hwang DY, Kim M, Kim B, Lee SH, Kwon MS. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells alleviate schizophrenia-relevant behaviors in amphetamine-sensitized mice by inhibiting neuroinflammation. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:123. [PMID: 32341334 PMCID: PMC7186225 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-0802-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, therapeutic options available for treating schizophrenia are limited to monoamine-based antipsychotic drugs. Recent genome wide association study (GWAS) indicated a close relationship between immune system and schizophrenia. To leverage the GWAS finding for therapeutic strategy, we conducted a mechanism and effect study on application of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC) with potent immune-modulatory effect in an animal model useful for the study of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia-relevant behaviors were induced by amphetamine administration (amphetamine-sensitized mice) and the effect of a single intravenous administration of hUC-MSC was examined in the amphetamine-sensitized mice. Schizophrenia-relevant behaviors were assessed by open field test, light/dark box, social interaction test, latent inhibition, prepulse inhibition, tail suspension test, and forced swimming test. Our results indicated that neuroinflammation along with peripheral TNF-α elevation is associated with schizophrenia-relevant behaviors in amphetamine-sensitized mice. In addition, hUC-MSC inhibited schizophrenia-relevant and the neuroinflammatory changes. The main mechanism of hUC-MSC was associated with the induction of Treg and production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10 in periphery. In vitro study revealed that amphetamine did not directly induce a neuroinflammatory reaction, while recombinant TNF-α (rTNF-α) increased mRNA expression of TNF-α, KMO, and IL-1β in several microglial cell lines. Moreover, recombinant IL-10 (rIL-10) and MSC conditioned media inhibited the inflammatory response in rTNF-α-treated microglial cells. Assuming that hUC-MSCs rarely reach the CNS and do not remain in the body for an extended time, these findings suggest that a single hUC-MSC infusion have long-term beneficial effect via regulatory T cell induction and secretion of IL-10 in amphetamine-sensitized mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jung You
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Pharmacology, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - Minji Bang
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13496 Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Sun Park
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Pharmacology, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - Bohyun Yang
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Pharmacology, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Beom Jang
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Pharmacology, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - Jongman Yoo
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Youn Hwang
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13488 Republic of Korea
| | - MinYoung Kim
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13497 Republic of Korea
| | - Borah Kim
- grid.410886.30000 0004 0647 3511Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do 13496 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyuk Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13496, Republic of Korea.
| | - Min-Soo Kwon
- Department of Pharmacology, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, CHA University, CHA BIO COMPLEX, 335 Pangyo, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13488, Republic of Korea.
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Di Tullio I, Azzolina D, Piras GN, Comoretto RI, Minto C, De Angeli S, Gregori D. Factors associated with blood cord unit bankability: an analysis of a 15-year-long case series. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 21:77-87. [PMID: 31848776 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-019-09799-y] [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] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Blood banking is a long and complex process requiring an accurate screening of potential donors and high-quality control systems. Previous studies in literature investigated factors potentially determining a higher cell levels with the aim of optimizing donors' selection and improving banking process. This study aims to identify factors associated with the concentration of stem cells in umbilical cord blood, so increasing the probability of bankability, focusing on the possible implications in terms of obstetric and resources management. This is a retrospective study conducted in the Obstetric Units of two Italian Hospitals in Montebelluna and Castelfranco Veneto. Study has been conducted on cord blood units banked between 1999 and 2015. Data on medical histories and clinical characteristics of mother and baby have been retrieved via a retrospective examination of medical records. A total of 869 cord blood units were studied. At multivariable analysis, in agreement with literature, birthweight and placental weight have been found to be associated with higher concentration of total nucleated cells. As additional factor, amount of fluid infused was associated with cord blood units' count. This study is the first one to clearly identify the role of fluid infusion on cord blood units' counts in addition to placental weight and delivery. Some non-modifiable features can help in predicting bankability from pre-natal aspects to factors more related with obstetric management is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Di Tullio
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Danila Azzolina
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Gianluca Niccolò Piras
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Rosanna Irene Comoretto
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Clara Minto
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Sergio De Angeli
- ULSS 9, Treviso, Viale Bartolomeo D'Alviano 34, 31100, Treviso, Italy
| | - Dario Gregori
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131, Padua, Italy.
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Hong J, Bang M. Anti-inflammatory Strategies for Schizophrenia: A Review of Evidence for Therapeutic Applications and Drug Repurposing. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 18:10-24. [PMID: 31958901 PMCID: PMC7006977 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2020.18.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric disorder with a substantial socioeconomic and humanistic burden. Currently available treatment strategies mostly rely on antipsychotic drugs, which block dopaminergic effects in the mesolimbic pathway of the brain. Although antipsychotic drugs help relieve psychotic symptoms, a definitive cure for schizophrenia has yet to be achieved. Recent advances in neuroinflammation research suggest that proinflammatory processes in the brain could cause alterations in neurobehavioral development and increase vulnerability to schizophrenia. With a growing need for novel strategies in the treatment of schizophrenia, it would be meaningful to review the current evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of anti-inflammatory strategies. This review details the key findings of clinical trials that investigate the efficacy of anti-inflammatory agents as adjuvants to antipsychotic treatment. We further discuss the possibilities of repurposing anti-inflammatory agents and developing novel strategies for the treatment of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonghee Hong
- CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Minji Bang
- Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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12
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Hou M, Han J, Li G, Kwon MY, Jiang J, Emani S, Taglauer ES, Park JA, Choi EB, Vodnala M, Fong YW, Emani SM, Rosas IO, Perrella MA, Liu X. Multipotency of mouse trophoblast stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:55. [PMID: 32054514 PMCID: PMC7020558 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-1567-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a number of disease processes, the body is unable to repair injured tissue, promoting the need to develop strategies for tissue repair and regeneration, including the use of cellular therapeutics. Trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) are considered putative stem cells as they differentiate into other subtypes of trophoblast cells. To identify cells for future therapeutic strategies, we investigated whether TSCs have properties of stem/progenitor cells including self-renewal and the capacity to differentiate into parenchymal cells of fetal organs, in vitro and in vivo. METHODS TSCs were isolated using anti-CD117 micro-beads, from embryonic day 18.5 placentas. In vitro, CD117+ TSCs were cultured, at a limiting dilution in growth medium for the development of multicellular clones and in specialized medium for differentiation into lung epithelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and retinal photoreceptor cells. CD117+ TSCs were also injected in utero into lung, heart, and the sub-retinal space of embryonic day 13.5 fetuses, and the organs were harvested for histological assessment after a natural delivery. RESULTS We first identified CD117+ cells within the labyrinth zone and chorionic basal plate of murine placentas in late pregnancy, embryonic day 18.5. CD117+ TSCs formed multicellular clones that remained positive for CD117 in vitro, consistent with self-renewal properties. The clonal cells demonstrated multipotency, capable of differentiating into lung epithelial cells (endoderm), cardiomyocytes (mesoderm), and retinal photoreceptor cells (ectoderm). Finally, injection of CD117+ TSCs in utero into lungs, hearts, and the sub-retinal spaces of fetuses resulted in their engraftment on day 1 after birth, and the CD117+ TSCs differentiated into lung alveolar epithelial cells, heart cardiomyocytes, and retina photoreceptor cells, corresponding with the organs in which they were injected. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that CD117+ TSCs have the properties of stem cells including clonogenicity, self-renewal, and multipotency. In utero administration of CD117+ TSCs engraft and differentiate into resident cells of the lung, heart, and retina during mouse development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minmin Hou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Junwen Han
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Gu Li
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Min-Young Kwon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jiani Jiang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Sirisha Emani
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Jin-Ah Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eun-Bee Choi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Munender Vodnala
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yick W Fong
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sitaram M Emani
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ivan O Rosas
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Mark A Perrella
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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13
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Larijani B, Foroughi Heravani N, Alavi-Moghadam S, Goodarzi P, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Payab M, Gholami M, Razi F, Arjmand B. Cell Therapy Targets for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Hopes, Challenges and Future Directions. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1341:107-124. [PMID: 32072476 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders as a group of pediatric neurodevelopmental diseases is a crucial part of the worldwide disabilities which have influence in communication skills, social interactions, and ability to understand the concepts. The precise pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders due to the abundance of involved mechanisms is unknown. Some of these involved mechanisms are related to genetic factors, chronic neuro inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, hormonal imbalance, and environmental factors. Current main treatments for autisms are behavioral, nutritional and medical therapies, however there is not definitive treatment approach. Therein, more novel therapies are still required to improve the symptoms. Several preclinical and clinical evidence were shown that stem cell therapy is a potential treatment option for autism spectrum disorders individuals. Considering the significant factors which can affect the outcome of stem cell therapeutic effects including stem cell types, route and dosage of administration, and mechanism of activity along with selecting best animal models can be very important in performing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Najmeh Foroughi Heravani
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Alavi-Moghadam
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Goodarzi
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Moloud Payab
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Gholami
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy; Toxicology and Poisoning Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farideh Razi
- Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Siences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Metabolomics and Genomics Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Nguyen EH, Dombroe MJ, Fisk DL, Daly WT, Sorenson CM, Murphy WL, Sheibani N. Neurovascular Organotypic Culture Models Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Assess Adverse Chemical Exposure Outcomes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 5:92-110. [PMID: 32292797 DOI: 10.1089/aivt.2018.0025] [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] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) represent a promising cell source for the construction of organotypic culture models for chemical toxicity screening and characterization. Materials and Methods: To characterize the effects of chemical exposure on the human neurovasculature, we constructed neurovascular unit (NVU) models consisting of endothelial cells (ECs) and astrocytes (ACs) derived from human-iPSCs, as well as human brain-derived pericytes (PCs). The cells were cocultured on synthetic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels that guided the self-assembly of capillary-like vascular networks. High-content epifluorescence microscopy evaluated dose-dependent changes to multiple aspects of NVU morphology. Results: Cultured vascular networks underwent quantifiable morphological changes when incubated with vascular disrupting chemicals. The activity of predicted vascular disrupting chemicals from a panel of 38 compounds (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) was ranked based on morphological features detected in the NVU model. In addition, unique morphological neurovascular disruption signatures were detected per chemical. A comparison of PEG-based NVU and Matrigel™-based NVU models found greater sensitivity and consistency in chemical detection by the PEG-based NVU models. Discussion: We suspect that specific morphological changes may be used for discerning adverse outcome pathways initiated by chemical exposure and rapid mechanistic characterization of chemical exposure to neurovascular function. Conclusion: The use of human stem cell-derived vascular tissue and PEG hydrogels in the construction of NVU models leads to rapid detection of adverse chemical effects on neurovascular stability. The use of multiple cell types in coculture elucidates potential mechanisms of action by chemicals applied to the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric H Nguyen
- Human Models for Analysis of Pathways Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Micah J Dombroe
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Debra L Fisk
- Human Models for Analysis of Pathways Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - William T Daly
- Human Models for Analysis of Pathways Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Christine M Sorenson
- Department of Pediatrics, and University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - William L Murphy
- Human Models for Analysis of Pathways Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Nader Sheibani
- Human Models for Analysis of Pathways Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
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15
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Riordan NH, Hincapié ML, Morales I, Fernández G, Allen N, Leu C, Madrigal M, Paz Rodríguez J, Novarro N. Allogeneic Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children: Safety Profile and Effect on Cytokine Levels. Stem Cells Transl Med 2019; 8:1008-1016. [PMID: 31187597 PMCID: PMC6766688 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suffer from developmental disabilities that impact communication, behavior, and social interaction. Immune dysregulation and inflammation have been linked to children with ASD, the latter manifesting in serum levels of macrophage‐derived chemokine (MDC) and thymus, and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC). Mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord tissue (UC‐MSCs) have immune‐modulatory and anti‐inflammatory properties, and have been safely used to treat a variety of conditions. This study investigated the safety and efficacy of UC‐MSCs administered to children diagnosed with ASD. Efficacy was evaluated with the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and with measurements of MDC and TARC serum levels. Twenty subjects received a dose of 36 million intravenous UC‐MSCs every 12 weeks (four times over a 9‐month period), and were followed up at 3 and 12 months after treatment completion. Adverse events related to treatment were mild or moderate and short in duration. The CARS and ATEC scores of eight subjects decreased over the course of treatment, placing them in a lower ASD symptom category when compared with baseline. MDC and TARC inflammatory cytokine levels also decreased for five of these eight subjects. The mean MDC, TARC, ATEC, and CARS values attained their lowest levels 3 months after the last administration. UC‐MSC administration in children with ASD was therefore determined to be safe. Although some signals of efficacy were observed in a small group of children, possible links between inflammation levels and ASD symptoms should be further investigated. stem cells translational medicine2019;8:1008–1016
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil H Riordan
- MediStem Panama, Inc., City of Knowledge, Clayton, Republic of Panama.,Stem Cell Institute, Panama, Republic of Panama
| | | | - Isabela Morales
- MediStem Panama, Inc., City of Knowledge, Clayton, Republic of Panama
| | | | - Nicole Allen
- MediStem Panama, Inc., City of Knowledge, Clayton, Republic of Panama
| | - Cindy Leu
- Stem Cell Institute, Panama, Republic of Panama
| | | | | | - Nelson Novarro
- Pacífica Salud, Hospital Punta Pacífica, Panama, Republic of Panama
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Shroff G. Human Embryonic Stem Cells in the Treatment of Autism: A Case Series. INNOVATIONS IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2017; 14:12-16. [PMID: 28584692 PMCID: PMC5451033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder accompanied by weak immune system and neuroinflammation. Multiple factors contribute to etiology of autism spectrum disorder including genetic disorders, environmental substances/toxins, imbalanced immune system, encephalitis, and viral infections. Autism spectrum disorder is an incurable disease; however, it can be managed by educational and medical interventions. Human embryonic stem cell therapy has been shown to improve blood perfusion in the brain; thus, this therapy may be effective in improving motor skills, social skills, and cognition in patients with autism spectrum disorder. Method: Three pediatric patients with autism spectrum disorder were administered human embryonic stem cell therapy. Their treatment plan comprised 3 to 4 therapy sessions (T1, T2, T3, T4) that were 4 to 6 weeks in length, with 4- to 8-month gap phases separating each therapy session. Results: The patients showed improvements in eye coordination, writing, balancing, cognition, and speech and showed reduced hypersensitivity to noises and smells. Conclusion: The use of human embryonic stem cell therapy may be a safe and effective treatment for patients with autism spectrum disorder. Studies with larger sample sizes are needed to support the use of human embryonic stem cell therapy in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geeta Shroff
- Dr. Shroff is Director of Nutech Mediworld in New Delhi, India
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17
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Sivanesan S, Tan A, Jeyaraj R, Lam J, Gole M, Hardan A, Ashkan K, Rajadas J. Pharmaceuticals and Stem Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Wishful Thinking? World Neurosurg 2017; 98:659-672. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.09.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased the need for evidence-based treatments to lessen the impact of symptoms. Presently, no therapies are available to effectively treat individuals with all of the symptoms of this disorder. It has been suggested that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may alleviate the biochemical dysfunction and clinical symptoms of ASD. OBJECTIVES To determine whether treatment with hyperbaric oxygen:1. improves core symptoms of ASD, including social communication problems and stereotypical and repetitive behaviors;2. improves noncore symptoms of ASD, such as challenging behaviors;3. improves comorbid states, such as depression and anxiety; and4. causes adverse effects. SEARCH METHODS On 10 December 2015, we searched CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and 15 other databases, four of which were Chinese language databases. We also searched multiple trial and research registers. SELECTION CRITERIA We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of any dose, duration, and frequency for hyperbaric oxygen therapy compared with no treatment or sham treatment for children and adults with ASD. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration, in that three review authors independently selected studies, assessed them for risk of bias, and extracted relevant data. We also assessed the quality of the evidence by using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included one trial with a total of 60 children with a diagnosis of ASD who randomly received hyperbaric oxygen therapy or a sham treatment. Using GRADE criteria, we rated the quality of the evidence as low because of the small sample size and wide confidence intervals (CIs). Other problems included selection bias and short duration or follow-up.Overall, study authors reported no improvement in social interaction and communication, behavioral problems, communication and linguistic abilities, or cognitive function. With regard to the safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (adverse events), they reported minor-grade ear barotrauma events. Investigators found significant differences between groups in total number of side effect events (Peto odds ratio (OR) 3.87, 95% CI 1.53 to 9.82) and in the number of children who experienced side effects (Peto OR 4.40, 95% CI 1.33 to 14.48). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS To date, there is no evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves core symptoms and associated symptoms of ASD. It is important to note that adverse effects (minor-grade ear barotrauma events) can occur. Given the absence of evidence of effectiveness and the limited biological plausibility and possible adverse effects, the need for future RCTs of hyperbaric oxygen therapy must be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Xiong
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hongju Chen
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Rong Luo
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Dezhi Mu
- West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of PediatricsNo. 17, Section Three, Ren Min Nan Lu AvenueChengduSichuanChina610041
- Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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Human adipose-derived stem cells ameliorate repetitive behavior, social deficit and anxiety in a VPA-induced autism mouse model. Behav Brain Res 2016; 317:479-484. [PMID: 27717813 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, and patients often display co-occurring repetitive behaviors. Although the global prevalence of ASD has increased over time, the etiology and treatments for ASD are poorly understood. Recently, some researchers have suggested that stem cells have therapeutic potential for ASD. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs), a kind of autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from adipose tissue, on valproic acid (VPA)-induced autism model mice. Human ASCs were injected into the neonatal pups (P2 or P3) intraventricularly and then we evaluated major behavior symptoms of ASD. VPA-treated mice showed increased repetitive behaviors, decreased social interactions and increased anxiety but these autistic behaviors were ameliorated through transplantation of hASCs. In addition, hASCs transplantation restored the alteration of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression and p-AKT/AKT ratio in the brains of VPA-induced ASD model mice. The decreased level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) by VPA were rescued in the brains of the hASC-injected VPA mice. With these results, we experimentally found hASCs' therapeutic effects on autistic phenotypes in a ASD model mice for the first time. This animal model system can be used to elucidate further mechanisms of therapeutic effects of hASCs in ASD.
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20
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Nitkin CR, Bonfield TL. Concise Review: Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Pediatric Disease: Perspectives on Success and Potential Improvements. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 6:539-565. [PMID: 28191766 PMCID: PMC5442806 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a potentially revolutionary therapy for a wide variety of pediatric diseases, but the optimal cell-based therapeutics for such diversity have not yet been specified. The published clinical trials for pediatric pulmonary, cardiac, orthopedic, endocrine, neurologic, and hematologic diseases provide evidence that MSCs are indeed efficacious, but the significant heterogeneity in therapeutic approaches between studies raises new questions. The purpose of this review is to stimulate new preclinical and clinical trials to investigate these factors. First, we discuss recent clinical trials for pediatric diseases studying MSCs obtained from bone marrow, umbilical cord and umbilical cord blood, placenta, amniotic fluid, and adipose tissue. We then identify factors, some unique to pediatrics, which must be examined to optimize therapeutic efficacy, including route of administration, dose, timing of administration, the role of ex vivo differentiation, cell culture techniques, donor factors, host factors, and the immunologic implications of allogeneic therapy. Finally, we discuss some of the practicalities of bringing cell-based therapy into the clinic, including regulatory and manufacturing considerations. The aim of this review is to inform future studies seeking to maximize therapeutic efficacy for each disease and for each patient. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:539-565.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R. Nitkin
- Division of Neonatology, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Tracey L. Bonfield
- Division of Pulmonology, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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21
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Segal-Gavish H, Karvat G, Barak N, Barzilay R, Ganz J, Edry L, Aharony I, Offen D, Kimchi T. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation Promotes Neurogenesis and Ameliorates Autism Related Behaviors in BTBR Mice. Autism Res 2015; 9:17-32. [PMID: 26257137 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by social communication deficits, cognitive rigidity, and repetitive stereotyped behaviors. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have a paracrine regenerative effect, and were speculated to be a potential therapy for ASD. The BTBR inbred mouse strain is a commonly used model of ASD as it demonstrates robust behavioral deficits consistent with the diagnostic criteria for ASD. BTBR mice also exhibit decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling and reduced hippocampal neurogenesis. In the current study, we evaluated the behavioral and molecular effects of intracerebroventricular MSC transplantation in BTBR mice. Transplantation of MSC resulted in a reduction of stereotypical behaviors, a decrease in cognitive rigidity and an improvement in social behavior. Tissue analysis revealed elevated BDNF protein levels in the hippocampus accompanied by increased hippocampal neurogenesis in the MSC-transplanted mice compared with sham treated mice. This might indicate a possible mechanism underpinning the behavioral improvement. Our study suggests a novel therapeutic approach which may be translatable to ASD patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadar Segal-Gavish
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel- Aviv, Israel
| | - Golan Karvat
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noy Barak
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ran Barzilay
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel- Aviv, Israel.,Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | - Javier Ganz
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel- Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Edry
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Israel Aharony
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel- Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniel Offen
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel- Aviv, Israel
| | - Tali Kimchi
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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22
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Tarazi FI, Sahli ZT, Pleskow J, Mousa SA. Asperger’s syndrome: diagnosis, comorbidity and therapy. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 15:281-93. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2015.1009898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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23
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Ma YH, Li YW, Ma L, Cao CH, Liu XD. Anesthesia for stem cell transplantation in autistic children: A prospective, randomized, double-blind comparison of propofol and etomidate following sevoflurane inhalation. Exp Ther Med 2015; 9:1035-1039. [PMID: 25667673 PMCID: PMC4316962 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2015.2176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to comparatively investigate the feasibility and safety of etomidate and propofol use following sevoflurane inhalation in autistic children during the intrathecal transplantation of stem cells. The patients selected were 60 autistic children with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I, who were aged between two and 12 years and scheduled for stem cell transplantation. The children received an inhalation induction of 8% sevoflurane, followed by intravenous injection of etomidate (0.2 mg/kg) in group E and propofol (2 mg/kg) in group P (n=30/group). Supplemental doses of 0.1 mg/kg etomidate or 1 mg/kg propofol were used until a deep sedation was obtained. The heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, Ramsay sedation score (RSS) and recovery time were monitored continuously. Following anesthesia, blood pressure and HR measurements were significantly decreased in group P compared with the baseline (P<0.01) and group E values at the same time-points (P<0.05). The occurrence of adverse effects, such as respiratory depression, bradycardia, hypotension and pain on injection, was significantly higher in group P than that in group E, whereas the incidence of myoclonus in group E was significantly higher than that in group P (P<0.01). No significant differences in anesthesia induction, surgery duration, recovery time, RSS and physician satisfaction were observed between the two groups. In conclusion, sevoflurane-etomidate combinations resulted in more stable hemodynamic responses and relatively fewer adverse effects compared with propofol injection following sevoflurane inhalation and may therefore be more suitable for the induction of short-term anesthesia in autistic children during stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Heng Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Artillery General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Wang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Artillery General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Second Artillery General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Cai-Hong Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Artillery General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Xiang-Dong Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Artillery General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
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Levy SE, Hyman SL. Complementary and alternative medicine treatments for children with autism spectrum disorders. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2015; 24:117-43. [PMID: 25455579 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There are many treatments in current use for core and associated symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This review discusses the complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments commonly added to conventional interventions for children with ASD, including natural products, mind and body practices, and other biomedical treatments. The article focuses on factors associated with use of CAM, the empirical evidence for the most frequently used treatments, and how clinicians work with families who choose CAM treatments. Some treatments have been ineffective, some have unacceptable potential side effects, and others require more study in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Levy
- Division of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3550 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Susan L Hyman
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Golisano Children's Hospital, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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25
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Ng TK, Fortino VR, Pelaez D, Cheung HS. Progress of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for neural and retinal diseases. World J Stem Cells 2014; 6:111-119. [PMID: 24772238 PMCID: PMC3999769 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i2.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex circuitry and limited regenerative power make central nervous system (CNS) disorders the most challenging and difficult for functional repair. With elusive disease mechanisms, traditional surgical and medical interventions merely slow down the progression of the neurodegenerative diseases. However, the number of neurons still diminishes in many patients. Recently, stem cell therapy has been proposed as a viable option. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a widely-studied human adult stem cell population, have been discovered for more than 20 years. MSCs have been found all over the body and can be conveniently obtained from different accessible tissues: bone marrow, blood, and adipose and dental tissue. MSCs have high proliferative and differentiation abilities, providing an inexhaustible source of neurons and glia for cell replacement therapy. Moreover, MSCs also show neuroprotective effects without any genetic modification or reprogramming. In addition, the extraordinary immunomodulatory properties of MSCs enable autologous and heterologous transplantation. These qualities heighten the clinical applicability of MSCs when dealing with the pathologies of CNS disorders. Here, we summarize the latest progress of MSC experimental research as well as human clinical trials for neural and retinal diseases. This review article will focus on multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, autism, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.
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The need for a comprehensive molecular characterization of autism spectrum disorders. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 17:651-73. [PMID: 24229490 DOI: 10.1017/s146114571300117x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of disorders which have complex behavioural phenotypes. Although ASD is a highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorder, genetic research alone has not provided a profound understanding of the underlying causes. Recent developments using biochemical tools such as transcriptomics, proteomics and cellular models, will pave the way to gain new insights into the underlying pathological pathways. This review addresses the state-of-the-art in the search for molecular biomarkers for ASD. In particular, the most important findings in the biochemical field are highlighted and the need for establishing streamlined interaction between behavioural studies, genetics and proteomics is stressed. Eventually, these approaches will lead to suitable translational ASD models and, therefore, a better disease understanding which may facilitate novel drug discovery efforts in this challenging field.
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Indumathi S, Harikrishnan R, Rajkumar JS, Dhanasekaran M. Immunophenotypic comparison of heterogenous non-sorted versus sorted mononuclear cells from human umbilical cord blood: a novel cell enrichment approach. Cytotechnology 2013; 67:107-14. [PMID: 24357150 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-013-9663-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human umbilical cord blood (hUCB) has been the preferred source of stem cells for the treatment of haematological malignancies and genetic disorders. This is primarily due to its non-invasiveness, high accessibility with relative ease of isolation. Still failures do prevail due to its heterogeneity and lesser frequency of MSC identified in UCB. This study, thus, employs a cell enrichment technology to improve its therapeutic efficacy. This was achieved by immunophenotypic comparison of stem cells isolated from the heterogenous non-sorted mononuclear cells (MNCs), linage depleted (Lin+ and Lin-) fractions obtained from magnetic activated cell sorter (MACS) and sorted MNCs obtained by fluorescent activated cell sorter (FACS). The markers under consideration were CD29, CD44, CD34, CD45, CD133, CD90 and CD117. FACS sorted MNCs were rich in naive stem cell population, whereas non-sorted MNCs and lineage depleted fractions were found to be rich in progenitors. Thus, we suggest that a combination therapy of both sorted population might serve as an alternative valuable tool in treating haematologic/genetic disorders. However, further research on cell enrichment technology might give a clue for improved cell based therapy in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Indumathi
- Department of Stem Cells, Lifeline RIGID Hospital, Chennai, 600 096, India
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Lv YT, Zhang Y, Liu M, Qiuwaxi JNT, Ashwood P, Cho SC, Huan Y, Ge RC, Chen XW, Wang ZJ, Kim BJ, Hu X. Transplantation of human cord blood mononuclear cells and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells in autism. J Transl Med 2013; 11:196. [PMID: 23978163 PMCID: PMC3765833 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-11-196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder. At present there are no defined mechanisms of pathogenesis and therapy is mostly limited to behavioral interventions. Stem cell transplantation may offer a unique treatment strategy for autism due to immune and neural dysregulation observed in this disease. This non-randomized, open-label, single center phase I/II trial investigated the safety and efficacy of combined transplantation of human cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMNCs) and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) in treating children with autism. METHODS 37 subjects diagnosed with autism were enrolled into this study and divided into three groups: CBMNC group (14 subjects, received CBMNC transplantation and rehabilitation therapy), Combination group (9 subjects, received both CBMNC and UCMSC transplantation and rehabilitation therapy), and Control group (14 subjects, received only rehabilitation therapy). Transplantations included four stem cell infusions through intravenous and intrathecal injections once a week. Treatment safety was evaluated with laboratory examinations and clinical assessment of adverse effects. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale and Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) were adopted to assess the therapeutic efficacy at baseline (pre-treatment) and following treatment. RESULTS There were no significant safety issues related to the treatment and no observed severe adverse effects. Statistically significant differences were shown on CARS, ABC scores and CGI evaluation in the two treatment groups compared to the control at 24 weeks post-treatment (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Transplantation of CBMNCs demonstrated efficacy compared to the control group; however, the combination of CBMNCs and UCMSCs showed larger therapeutic effects than the CBMNC transplantation alone. There were no safety issues noted during infusion and the whole monitoring period. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01343511, Title "Safety and Efficacy of Stem Cell Therapy in Patients with Autism".
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Tao Lv
- Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Shenzhen Beike Cell Engineering Research Institute, 2/F, Yuanxing Technology Building, #1 Songpingshan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Min Liu
- Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jia-na-ti Qiuwaxi
- Shenzhen Beike Cell Engineering Research Institute, 2/F, Yuanxing Technology Building, #1 Songpingshan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sungho Charles Cho
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ying Huan
- Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ru-Cun Ge
- Shandong Jiaotong Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | | | - Zhao-Jing Wang
- Shenzhen Beike Cell Engineering Research Institute, 2/F, Yuanxing Technology Building, #1 Songpingshan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
| | - Byung-Jo Kim
- Department of Neurology, Korea University Anam Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Xiang Hu
- Shenzhen Beike Cell Engineering Research Institute, 2/F, Yuanxing Technology Building, #1 Songpingshan Street, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China
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Autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell therapy for autism: an open label proof of concept study. Stem Cells Int 2013; 2013:623875. [PMID: 24062774 PMCID: PMC3767048 DOI: 10.1155/2013/623875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular therapy is an emerging therapeutic modality with a great potential for the treatment of autism. Recent findings show that the major underlying pathogenetic mechanisms of autism are hypoperfusion and immune alterations in the brain. So conceptually, cellular therapy which facilitates counteractive processes of improving perfusion by angiogenesis and balancing inflammation by immune regulation would exhibit beneficial clinical effects in patients with autism. This is an open label proof of concept study of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) intrathecal transplantation in 32 patients with autism followed by multidisciplinary therapies. All patients were followed up for 26 months (mean 12.7). Outcome measures used were ISAA, CGI, and FIM/Wee-FIM scales. Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) scan recorded objective changes. Out of 32 patients, a total of 29 (91%) patients improved on total ISAA scores and 20 patients (62%) showed decreased severity on CGI-I. The difference between pre- and postscores was statistically significant (P < 0.001) on Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test. On CGI-II 96% of patients showed global improvement. The efficacy was measured on CGI-III efficacy index. Few adverse events including seizures in three patients were controlled with medications. The encouraging results of this leading clinical study provide future directions for application of cellular therapy in autism.
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30
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Insulin-like growth factor and the etiology of autism. Med Hypotheses 2013; 80:475-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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31
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Pecorelli A, Leoncini S, De Felice C, Signorini C, Cerrone C, Valacchi G, Ciccoli L, Hayek J. Non-protein-bound iron and 4-hydroxynonenal protein adducts in classic autism. Brain Dev 2013; 35:146-54. [PMID: 22534237 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2012.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Revised: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A link between oxidative stress and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) remains controversial with opposing views on its role in the pathogenesis of the disease. We investigated for the first time the levels of non-protein-bound iron (NPBI), a pro-oxidant factor, and 4-hydroxynonenal protein adducts (4-HNE PAs), as a marker of lipid peroxidation-induced protein damage, in classic autism. Patients with classic autism (n=20, mean age 12.0±6.2years) and healthy controls (n=18, mean age 11.7±6.5years) were examined. Intraerythrocyte and plasma NPBI were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and 4-HNE PAs in erythrocyte membranes and plasma were detected by Western blotting. The antioxidant defences were evaluated as erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) levels using a spectrophotometric assay. Intraerythrocyte and plasma NPBI levels were significantly increased (1.98- and 3.56-folds) in autistic patients, as compared to controls (p=0.0019 and p<0.0001, respectively); likewise, 4-HNE PAs were significantly higher in erythrocyte membranes and in plasma (1.58- and 1.6-folds, respectively) from autistic patients than controls (p=0.0043 and p=0.0001, respectively). Erythrocyte GSH was slightly decreased (-10.34%) in patients compared to controls (p=0.0215). Our findings indicate an impairment of the redox status in classic autism patients, with a consequent imbalance between oxidative stress and antioxidant defences. Increased levels of NPBI could contribute to lipid peroxidation and, consequently, to increased plasma and erythrocyte membranes 4-HNE PAs thus amplifying the oxidative damage, potentially contributing to the autistic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Experimental Medicine & Public Health, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci 16, Siena, Italy
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32
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Exploring the enkephalinergic differentiation potential in adult stem cells for cell therapy and drug screening implications. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2012; 48:562-9. [PMID: 23054438 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-012-9546-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is one of the most promising treatments in neuroregenerative medicine. Considering the role of the endogenous opioid system in controlling the pathophysiology of neurological disorders and behavioral aberrations, current studies have focused on enkephalins as a part of the opioid system. Due to high capability of unrestricted somatic stem cells (USSCs) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) for cell therapy and transplantation; here, we examined their enkephalinergic differentiation potential through Ikaros-related pathways in order to develop in vitro models to help drug screening and stem cell therapy for the opioid-related disorders. The authenticity of the stem cells was verified by differentiation experiments along with flow cytometry for surface markers. Later, we confirmed their neurogenic differentiation with semiquantitative and quantitative transcriptional and translational evaluations of the enkephalinergic-related genes such as proenkephalin, CREBZF, Ikaros, and prodynorphin. Our findings supported the enkephalinergic differentiation of these stem cells. Noteworthy, USSCs showed higher potential for differentiating into enkephalinergic neurons under Ikaros activation than hMSCs, which makes them appropriate for neurological therapeutic applications. In conclusion, this study suggests a powerful in vitro model for neurogenesis that may help clarification of enkephalinergic differentiation and related signaling networks along with neural drug screening. Such investigations may be beneficial to ameliorate the neural-related therapeutic approaches.
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33
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Roura S, Pujal JM, Bayes-Genis A. Umbilical cord blood for cardiovascular cell therapy: from promise to fact. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2012; 1254:66-70. [PMID: 22548571 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2012.06515.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial recovery and cell replacement are therapeutic challenges for cardiovascular medicine. Initially employed in the treatment of blood malignancies due to its high concentration of hematological precursors, umbilical cord blood (UCB) is now a non-controversial and accepted source of both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic progenitors for a variety of emerging cell therapies in clinical trials. Here, we review the current therapeutic potential of UCB, focusing in recent evidence demonstrating the ability of UCB-derived mesenchymal stem cells to differentiate into the endothelial lineage and to develop new vasculature in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Roura
- ICREC Research Group, Health Sciences Research Institute Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Barcelona, Spain
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34
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Peroni JF, Borjesson DL. Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of stem cells. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2012; 27:351-62. [PMID: 21872763 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2011.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent interest in equine stem cell biology and the rapid increase in experimental data highlight the growing attention that this topic has been receiving over the past few years. Within the field of stem cell biology, the relevance of immunobiology is of particular intrigue. It appears that optimal and effective stem cell therapy for equine patients will require a thorough analysis of the immune properties of stem cells as well as their response to immune mediators. The main goal of this review is to discuss the biology of adult mesenchymal stem cells in the context of immunology.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Peroni
- Department of Large Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, H-322, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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35
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Gamliel M, Ebstein R, Yirmiya N, Mankuta D. Minor Fetal Sonographic Findings in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2012; 67:176-86. [DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0b013e31824bb5d6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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36
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Potdar PD, D'Souza SB. Ascorbic acid induces in vitro proliferation of human subcutaneous adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stem cells with upregulation of embryonic stem cell pluripotency markers Oct4 and SOX 2. Hum Cell 2011; 23:152-5. [PMID: 21166886 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-0774.2010.00095.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immense therapeutic potential because of their ability to self-renew and differentiate into various connective tissue lineages. The in vitro proliferation and expansion of these cells is necessary for their use in stem cell therapy. Recently our group has developed and characterized mesenchymal stem cells from subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue. We observed that these cells show a slower growth rate at higher passages and therefore decided to develop a supplemented medium, which will induce proliferation. Choi et al. have recently shown that the use of ascorbic acid enhances the proliferation of bone marrow derived MSCs. We therefore studied the effect of ascorbic acid on the proliferation of MSCs and characterized their phenotypes using stem cell specific molecular markers. It was observed that the use of 250 μM ascorbic acid promoted the significant growth of MSCs without loss of phenotype and differentiation potential. There was no considerable change in gene expression of cell surface markers CD105, CD13, Nanog, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and Keratin 18. Moreover, the MSCs maintained in the medium supplemented with ascorbic acid for a period of 4 weeks showed increase in pluripotency markers Oct4 and SOX 2. Also cells in the experimental group retained the typical spindle shaped morphology. Thus, this study emphasizes the development of suitable growth medium for expansion of MSCs and maintenance of their undifferentiated state for further therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin D Potdar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biology, Jaslok Hospital and Research Center, Maharashtra, India.
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37
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Potdar PD, D'souza SB. Isolation of Oct4+, Nanog+ and SOX2- mesenchymal cells from peripheral blood of a diabetes mellitus patient. Hum Cell 2011; 24:51-5. [PMID: 21547696 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-011-0011-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 12/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The most common form is type 2 diabetes mellitus, which results in impaired beta cell function combined with insulin resistance in peripheral organs. One recently proposed treatment approach is the use of adult stem cells derived from bone marrow in autologous stem cell transplantation. Alternatively, peripheral blood can be obtained in a more non-invasive manner. In this study, we isolated and cultured mesenchymal cells (MCs) from the peripheral blood of a diabetes mellitus patient. The cultured cells were large and elongated and had an in vitro migratory capacity in the culture dish. They expressed embryonic stem cell pluripotency markers Nanog and Oct 4 as well as mesenchymal markers CD105 and CD13, and they lacked expression of hematopoietic marker CD45. These characteristics suggest that these cells have a mesenchymal phenotype similar to that obtained from bone marrow cells. The SOX2 gene was downregulated in both the peripheral blood cells and the isolated mesenchymal cell line, indicating a defective mechanism of SOX2 in diabetes mellitus. The overall results of study demonstrate that peripheral blood can be used as a source of MCs from diabetes mellitus patients for use in future regenerative stem cell therapy and that this particular model system may be useful to study the mechanism of diabetes mellitus involving downregulation of the SOX2 cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin D Potdar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biology, Jaslok Hospital and Research Center, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
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Klingemann H, Matzilevich D, Marchand J. Mesenchymal Stem Cells - Sources and Clinical Applications. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 35:272-277. [PMID: 21512642 DOI: 10.1159/000142333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 06/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY: Although mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from different tissue sources share many characteristics and generally fulfill accepted criteria for MSC (plastic adherence, certain surface marker expression, and ability to differentiate into mesenchymal tissues), we are increasingly learning that they can be distinguished at the level of cytokine production and gene expression profiles. Their ability to differentiate into different tissues including endodermal and ectodermal lineages, also varies according to tissue origin. Importantly, MSC from fetal sources can undergo more cell divisions before they reach senescence than MSC from adult tissue such as bone marrow or adipose tissue. As we learn more about the differentiation and plasticity of MSC from different sources, health care providers in the future will use them tailored to different medical indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Klingemann
- Division of Hematology/Oncology and Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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