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Chen S, Liang B, Xu J. Unveiling heterogeneity in MSCs: exploring marker-based strategies for defining MSC subpopulations. J Transl Med 2024; 22:459. [PMID: 38750573 PMCID: PMC11094970 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05294-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) represent a heterogeneous cell population distributed throughout various tissues, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to microenvironmental cues and holding immense promise for disease treatment. However, the inherent diversity within MSCs often leads to variability in therapeutic outcomes, posing challenges for clinical applications. To address this heterogeneity, purification of MSC subpopulations through marker-based isolation has emerged as a promising approach to ensure consistent therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we discussed the reported markers of MSCs, encompassing those developed through candidate marker strategies and high-throughput approaches, with the aim of explore viable strategies for addressing the heterogeneity of MSCs and illuminate prospective research directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowei Liang
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianyong Xu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Fuqiang Avenue 1001, Shenzhen, 518060, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen, 518000, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Chatzikalil E, Stergiou IE, Papadakos SP, Konstantinidis I, Theocharis S. The Clinical Relevance of the EPH/Ephrin Signaling Pathway in Pediatric Solid and Hematologic Malignancies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3834. [PMID: 38612645 PMCID: PMC11011407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073834] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pediatric neoplasms represent a complex group of malignancies that pose unique challenges in terms of diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of the underlying molecular pathogenetic mechanisms. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptors (EPHs), the largest family of receptor tyrosine kinases and their membrane-tethered ligands, ephrins, orchestrate short-distance cell-cell signaling and are intricately involved in cell-pattern morphogenesis and various developmental processes. Unraveling the role of the EPH/ephrin signaling pathway in the pathophysiology of pediatric neoplasms and its clinical implications can contribute to deciphering the intricate landscape of these malignancies. The bidirectional nature of the EPH/ephrin axis is underscored by emerging evidence revealing its capacity to drive tumorigenesis, fostering cell-cell communication within the tumor microenvironment. In the context of carcinogenesis, the EPH/ephrin signaling pathway prompts a reevaluation of treatment strategies, particularly in pediatric oncology, where the modest progress in survival rates and enduring treatment toxicity necessitate novel approaches. Molecularly targeted agents have emerged as promising alternatives, prompting a shift in focus. Through a nuanced understanding of the pathway's intricacies, we aim to lay the groundwork for personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for young patients grappling with neoplastic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Chatzikalil
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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3
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Arthur A, Gronthos S. Eph-Ephrin Signaling Mediates Cross-Talk Within the Bone Microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:598612. [PMID: 33634116 PMCID: PMC7902060 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.598612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal integrity is maintained through the tightly regulated bone remodeling process that occurs continuously throughout postnatal life to replace old bone and to repair skeletal damage. This is maintained primarily through complex interactions between bone resorbing osteoclasts and bone forming osteoblasts. Other elements within the bone microenvironment, including stromal, osteogenic, hematopoietic, endothelial and neural cells, also contribute to maintaining skeletal integrity. Disruption of the dynamic interactions between these diverse cellular systems can lead to poor bone health and an increased susceptibility to skeletal diseases including osteopenia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, osteomalacia, and major fractures. Recent reports have implicated a direct role for the Eph tyrosine kinase receptors and their ephrin ligands during bone development, homeostasis and skeletal repair. These membrane-bound molecules mediate contact-dependent signaling through both the Eph receptors, termed forward signaling, and through the ephrin ligands, referred to as reverse signaling. This review will focus on Eph/ ephrin cross-talk as mediators of hematopoietic and stromal cell communication, and how these interactions contribute to blood/ bone marrow function and skeletal integrity during normal steady state or pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Arthur
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stan Gronthos
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Precision Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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4
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García-Bernal D, García-Arranz M, García-Guillén AI, García-Hernández AM, Blanquer M, García-Olmo D, Sackstein R, Moraleda JM, Zapata AG. Exofucosylation of Adipose Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Alters Their Secretome Profile. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:584074. [PMID: 33324641 PMCID: PMC7726227 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.584074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) constitute the cell type more frequently used in many regenerative medicine approaches due to their exclusive immunomodulatory properties, and they have been reported to mediate profound immunomodulatory effects in vivo. Nevertheless, MSCs do not express essential adhesion molecules actively involved in cell migration, a phenotypic feature that hampers their ability to home inflamed tissues following intravenous administration. In this study, we investigated whether modification by fucosylation of murine AdMSCs (mAdMSCs) creates Hematopoietic Cell E-/L-selectin Ligand, the E-selectin-binding CD44 glycoform. This cell surface glycan modification of CD44 has previously shown in preclinical studies to favor trafficking of mAdMSCs to inflamed or injured peripheral tissues. We analyzed the impact that exofucosylation could have in other innate phenotypic and functional properties of MSCs. Compared to unmodified counterparts, fucosylated mAdMSCs demonstrated higher in vitro migration, an altered secretome pattern, including increased expression and secretion of anti-inflammatory molecules, and a higher capacity to inhibit mitogen-stimulated splenocyte proliferation under standard culture conditions. Together, these findings indicate that exofucosylation could represent a suitable cell engineering strategy, not only to facilitate the in vivo MSC colonization of damaged tissues after systemic administration, but also to convert MSCs in a more potent immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory cell therapy-based product for the treatment of a variety of autoimmune, inflammatory, and degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David García-Bernal
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Medicine School, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Mariano García-Arranz
- Foundation Health Research Institute-Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I García-Guillén
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ana M García-Hernández
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Miguel Blanquer
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Medicine School, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Damián García-Olmo
- Foundation Health Research Institute-Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Sackstein
- Department of Translational Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Jose M Moraleda
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Medicine School, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Agustín G Zapata
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Comparative Proteomic Analysis Identifies EphA2 as a Specific Cell Surface Marker for Wharton's Jelly-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176437. [PMID: 32899389 PMCID: PMC7503404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are a valuable tool in stem cell research due to their high proliferation rate, multi-lineage differentiation potential, and immunotolerance properties. However, fibroblast impurity during WJ-MSCs isolation is unavoidable because of morphological similarities and shared surface markers. Here, a proteomic approach was employed to identify specific proteins differentially expressed by WJ-MSCs in comparison to those by neonatal foreskin and adult skin fibroblasts (NFFs and ASFs, respectively). Mass spectrometry analysis identified 454 proteins with a transmembrane domain. These proteins were then compared across the different cell-lines and categorized based on their cellular localizations, biological processes, and molecular functions. The expression patterns of a selected set of proteins were further confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence assays. As anticipated, most of the studied proteins had common expression patterns. However, EphA2, SLC25A4, and SOD2 were predominantly expressed by WJ-MSCs, while CDH2 and Talin2 were specific to NFFs and ASFs, respectively. Here, EphA2 was established as a potential surface-specific marker to distinguish WJ-MSCs from fibroblasts and for prospective use to prepare pure primary cultures of WJ-MSCs. Additionally, CDH2 could be used for a negative-selection isolation/depletion method to remove neonatal fibroblasts contaminating preparations of WJ-MSCs.
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Harnessing the Power of Eph/ephrin Biosemiotics for Theranostic Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13060112. [PMID: 32492868 PMCID: PMC7345574 DOI: 10.3390/ph13060112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive basic biological knowledge of the Eph/ephrin system in the physiologic setting is needed to facilitate an understanding of its role and the effects of pathological processes on its activity, thereby paving the way for development of prospective therapeutic targets. To this end, this review briefly addresses what is currently known and being investigated in order to highlight the gaps and possible avenues for further investigation to capitalize on their diverse potential.
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Eph/ephrin Signaling and Biology of Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020310. [PMID: 31979096 PMCID: PMC7074403 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as important therapeutic agents, owing to their easy isolation and culture, and their remarkable immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. However, MSCs constitute a heterogeneous cell population which does not express specific cell markers and has important problems for in vivo homing, and factors regulating their survival, proliferation, and differentiation are largely unknown. Accordingly, in the present article, we review the current evidence on the relationships between Eph kinase receptors, their ephrin ligands, and MSCs. These molecules are involved in the adult homeostasis of numerous tissues, and we and other authors have demonstrated their expression in human and murine MSCs derived from both bone marrow and adipose tissue, as well as their involvement in the MSC biology. We extend these studies providing new results on the effects of Eph/ephrins in the differentiation and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs.
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Latest Advances in Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment for Tumor Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194719. [PMID: 31547627 PMCID: PMC6801830 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor bulk is composed of a highly heterogeneous population of cancer cells, as well as a large variety of resident and infiltrating host cells, extracellular matrix proteins, and secreted proteins, collectively known as the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is essential for driving tumor development by promoting cancer cell survival, migration, metastasis, chemoresistance, and the ability to evade the immune system responses. Therapeutically targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), regulatory T-cells (T-regs), and mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) is likely to have an impact in cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on describing the normal physiological functions of each of these cell types and their behavior in the cancer setting. Relying on the specific surface markers and secreted molecules in this context, we review the potential targeting of these cells inducing their depletion, reprogramming, or differentiation, or inhibiting their pro-tumor functions or recruitment. Different approaches were developed for this targeting, namely, immunotherapies, vaccines, small interfering RNA, or small molecules.
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Arthur A, Nguyen TM, Paton S, Zannettino ACW, Gronthos S. Loss of EfnB1 in the osteogenic lineage compromises their capacity to support hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell maintenance. Exp Hematol 2018; 69:43-53. [PMID: 30326247 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The bone marrow stromal microenvironment contributes to the maintenance and function of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). The Eph receptor tyrosine kinase family members have been implicated in bone homeostasis and stromal support of HSPCs. The present study examined the influence of EfnB1-expressing osteogenic lineage on HSPC function. Mice with conditional deletion of EfnB1 in the osteogenic lineage (EfnB1OB-/-), driven by the Osterix promoter, exhibited a reduced prevalence of osteogenic progenitors and osteoblasts, correlating to lower numbers of HSPCs compared with Osx:Cre mice. Long-term culture-initiating cell (LTC-IC) assays confirmed that the loss of EfnB1 within bone cells hindered HSPC function, with a significant reduction in colony formation in EfnB1OB-/- mice compared with Osx:Cre mice. Human studies confirmed that activation of EPHB2 on CD34+ HSPCs via EFNB1-Fc stimulation enhanced myeloid/erythroid colony formation, whereas functional blocking of either EPHB1 or EPHB2 inhibited the maintenance of LTC-ICs. Moreover, EFNB1 reverse signaling in human and mouse stromal cells was found to be required for the activation of the HSPC-promoting factor CXCL12. Collectively, the results of this study confirm that EfnB1 contributes to the stromal support of HSPC function and maintenance and may be an important factor in regulating the HSPC niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Arthur
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Cancer Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thao M Nguyen
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Cancer Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sharon Paton
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Cancer Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- Cancer Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Myeloma Research Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stan Gronthos
- Mesenchymal Stem Cell Laboratory, Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Cancer Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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