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Huang F, He Y, Zhang M, Luo K, Li J, Li J, Zhang X, Dong X, Tang J. Progress in Research on Stem Cells in Neonatal Refractory Diseases. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1281. [PMID: 37623531 PMCID: PMC10455340 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13081281] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
With the development and progress of medical technology, the survival rate of premature and low-birth-weight infants has increased, as has the incidence of a variety of neonatal diseases, such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, and retinopathy of prematurity. These diseases cause severe health conditions with poor prognoses, and existing control methods are ineffective for such diseases. Stem cells are a special type of cells with self-renewal and differentiation potential, and their mechanisms mainly include anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, reducing oxidative stress, and boosting regeneration. Their paracrine effects can affect the microenvironment in which they survive, thereby affecting the biological characteristics of other cells. Due to their unique abilities, stem cells have been used in treating various diseases. Therefore, stem cell therapy may open up the possibility of treating such neonatal diseases. This review summarizes the research progress on stem cells and exosomes derived from stem cells in neonatal refractory diseases to provide new insights for most researchers and clinicians regarding future treatments. In addition, the current challenges and perspectives in stem cell therapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangjun Huang
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang He
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Keren Luo
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiawen Li
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyan Dong
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Department of Neonatology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China
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Di SJ, Wu SY, Liu TJ, Shi YY. Stem cell therapy as a promising strategy in necrotizing enterocolitis. Mol Med 2022; 28:107. [PMID: 36068527 PMCID: PMC9450300 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-022-00536-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating gastrointestinal disease that affects newborns, particularly preterm infants, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. No effective therapeutic strategies to decrease the incidence and severity of NEC have been developed to date. Stem cell therapy has been explored and even applied in various diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders. Animal studies on stem cell therapy have made great progress, and the anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and intestinal barrier enhancing effects of stem cells may be protective against NEC clinically. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic mechanisms through which stem cells may function in the treatment of NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Jia Di
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Si-Yuan Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Tian-Jing Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Yong-Yan Shi
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Balsamo F, Tian Y, Pierro A, Li B. Amniotic fluid stem cells: A novel treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1020986. [PMID: 36533245 PMCID: PMC9751649 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1020986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a gastrointestinal disease frequently prevalent in premature neonates. Despite advances in research, there is a lack of accurate, early diagnoses of NEC and the current therapeutic approaches remain exhausted and disappointing. In this review, we have taken a close look at the regenerative medical literature available in the context of NEC treatment. Stem cells from amniotic fluid (AFSC) administration may have the greatest protective and restorative effects on NEC. This review summarizes the potential protection and restoration AFSCs have on NEC-induced intestinal injury while comparing various components within AFSCs like conditioned medium (CM) and extracellular vesicles (EVs). In addition to therapeutic interventions that focus on targeting intestinal epithelial damage and regeneration, a novel discovery that AFSCs act in a Wnt-dependent manner provides insight into this mechanism of protection. Finally, we have highlighted the most important aspects that remain unknown that should be considered to guide future research on the translational application of AFSC-based therapy. We hope that this will be a beneficial frame of reference for the guidance of future studies and towards the clinical application of AFSC and/or its derivatives as a treatment against NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Balsamo
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yina Tian
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Agostino Pierro
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bo Li
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
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O’Connell JS, Li B, Zito A, Ahmed A, Cadete M, Ganji N, Lau E, Alganabi M, Farhat N, Lee C, Eaton S, Mitchell R, Ray S, De Coppi P, Patel K, Pierro A. Treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis by conditioned medium derived from human amniotic fluid stem cells. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260522. [PMID: 34855833 PMCID: PMC8638898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most distressing gastrointestinal emergencies affecting neonates. Amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSC) improve intestinal injury and survival in experimental NEC but are difficult to administer. In this study, we evaluated whether conditioned medium (CM) derived from human AFSC have protective effects. METHODS Three groups of C57BL/6 mice were studied: (i) breast-fed mice as control; (ii) experimental NEC mice receiving PBS; and (iii) experimental NEC mice receiving CM. NEC was induced between post-natal days P5 through P9 via: (A) gavage feeding of hyperosmolar formula four-time a day; (B) 10 minutes hypoxia prior to feeds; and (C) lipopolysaccharide administration on P6 and P7. Intra-peritoneal injections of either PBS or CM were given on P6 and P7. All mice were sacrificed on P9 and terminal ileum were harvested for analyses. RESULTS CM treatment increased survival and reduced intestinal damage, decreased mucosal inflammation (IL-6; TNF-α), neutrophil infiltration (MPO), and apoptosis (CC3), and also restored angiogenesis (VEGF) in the ileum. Additionally, CM treated mice had increased levels of epithelial proliferation (Ki67) and stem cell activity (Olfm4; Lgr5) compared to NEC+PBS mice, showing restored intestinal regeneration and recovery during NEC induction. CM proteomic analysis of CM content identified peptides that regulated immune and stem cell activity. CONCLUSIONS CM derived from human AFSC administered in experimental NEC exhibited various benefits including reduced intestinal injury and inflammation, increased enterocyte proliferation, and restored intestinal stem cell activity. This study provides the scientific basis for the use of CM derived from AFSC in neonates with NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua S. O’Connell
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bo Li
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Zito
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abdalla Ahmed
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marissa Cadete
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Niloofar Ganji
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ethan Lau
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mashriq Alganabi
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nassim Farhat
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carol Lee
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Simon Eaton
- Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Section, NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Hospital and UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Mitchell
- Micregen Ltd, Thames Valley Science Park, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Ray
- Micregen Ltd, Thames Valley Science Park, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Section, NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Hospital and UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ketan Patel
- Micregen Ltd, Thames Valley Science Park, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Agostino Pierro
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Akduman H, Dilli D, Ergün E, Çakmakçı E, Çelebi SK, Çitli R, Zenciroğlu A. Successful Mesenchymal Stem Cell Application in Supraventricular Tachycardia-Related Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Case Report. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2021; 40:250-255. [PMID: 31755792 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2019.1693672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most important life- threatening diseases in neonates. Recurrent episodes of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) can lead to gut ischemia, with subsequent reperfusion injury resulting in NEC. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multi-potential cells which can differentiate into multiple cell types. Case report: A 22-day old male baby delivered to 34 yr old mother at 37-weeks' gestation via cesarean section, birth weight 3550 g, developed NEC 14 hours after being treated with cardioversion for SVT. At laparotomy, there was pan-NEC, and 60 cm of necrotic and perforated bowel was resected. 1 × 107 umbilical cord origin allogeneic MSCs were given intravenously, with subsequent improvement of the remaining bowel. Conclusion: MSC may be a promising treatment for adjacent ischemic bowel in NEC helping prevent short bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Akduman
- Department of Neonatology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dilek Dilli
- Department of Neonatology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ergun Ergün
- Department Pediatric Surgery, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emin Çakmakçı
- Department of Radyology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Serpil Kaya Çelebi
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Rumeysa Çitli
- Department of Neonatology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Zenciroğlu
- Department of Neonatology, Dr Sami Ulus Gynecology Obstetrics and Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
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Kersin SG, Özek E. Breast milk stem cells: Are they magic bullets in neonatology? Turk Arch Pediatr 2021; 56:187-191. [PMID: 34104907 DOI: 10.5152/turkarchpediatr.2021.21006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Each mammal produces milk specific to its newborn that meets all nutritional needs. Breast milk is not only a secretory product but is also a complex liquid containing several components that provide enteral nutrition. The stage of lactation, the fullness of the breast, the feeding of the baby, and the health of the mother during the breastfeeding period cause differences in the composition of breast milk. Although the positive effects of breast milk on the physical and intellectual development of a child in the short and long term have been known for centuries, its mechanism has not been elucidated. Stem cells are defined as the cells that possess specific markers and have not undergone differentiation. Under suitable conditions and stimuli, they can differentiate into desired cells. The detection of stem cells, whose exact origin is not known, in breast milk and their demonstration in the baby's body have prompted the necessity of exploring the possible role of stem cells in the treatment of diseases. In this review, breast milk-derived stem cells and their possible role in neonatology are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Gülcan Kersin
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Marmara University School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Eren Özek
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Marmara University School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
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Administration of extracellular vesicles derived from human amniotic fluid stem cells: a new treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis. Pediatr Surg Int 2021; 37:301-309. [PMID: 33566163 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-020-04826-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating gastrointestinal disease. Amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSC) improve NEC injury but human translation remains difficult. We aimed to evaluate the use of extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from human AFSC. METHODS Human AFSC (hAFSC) were cultured according to the protocol (Celprogen Inc., California, U.S.A.). Conditioned medium was obtained, ultra-centrifuged, and EV were suspended in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). C57BL/6 pups were grouped into: (1) breast-fed (Control, n = 11); (2) NEC + placebo (NEC + PBS; n = 10); and (3) NEC + treatment (NEC + EV; n = 11). NEC was induced post-natal days P5-9 by (A) gavage feeding hyperosmolar formula; (B) hypoxia for 10 min; and (C) lipopolysaccharide. Intra-peritoneal injections of PBS or hAFSC-EV were given on P6-7. All animals were sacrificed on P9 and terminal ileum harvested. RESULTS hAFSC-EV administration reduced intestinal injury (p = 0.0048), NEC incidence (score ≥ 2), and intestinal inflammation (IL-6 p < 0.0001; TNF-α p < 0.0001). Intestinal stem cell expression (Lgr5 +) and cellular proliferation (Ki67) were enhanced above control levels following hAFSC-EV administration (Lgr5 p = 0.0003; Ki67 p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION hAFSC-EV administration reduced intestinal NEC injury and inflammation while increasing stem cell expression and cellular proliferation. hAFSC-EV administration may induce similar beneficial effects to exogenous stem cells.
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Therapeutic Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived From Bone Marrow, Umbilical Cord Blood, and Pluripotent Stem Cells in a Mouse Model of Chemically Induced Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammation 2020; 42:1730-1740. [PMID: 31227956 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-019-01033-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Acute inflammatory bowel disease (AIBD) is a wide clinical entity including severe gastrointestinal pathologies with common histopathological basis. Epidemiologically increasing diseases, such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), gastrointestinal graft versus host disease (GVHD), and the primary acute phase of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (CIBD), exhibit a high necessity for new therapeutic strategies. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) cellular therapy represents a promising option for the treatment of these diseases. In our study, we comparatively assess the efficacy of human MSCs derived from bone marrow (BM), umbilical cord blood (UCB), human embryonic stem cells (ESCs), or human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in a mouse model of chemically induced acute enterocolitis. The laboratory animals were provided ad libitum potable dextrane sulfate sodium solution (DSS) in order to reproduce an AIBD model and then individually exposed intraperitoneally to MSCs derived from BM (BM-MSCs), UCB (UCB-MSCs), ESCs (ESC-MSCs), or iPSCs (iPSC-MSCs). The parameters used to evaluate the cellular treatment efficacy were the animal survival prolongation and the histopathological-macroscopic picture of bowel sections. Although all categories of mesenchymal stem cells led to statistically significant survival prolongation compared to the control group, significant clinical and histopathological improvement was observed only in mice receiving BM-MSCs and UCB-MSCs. Our results demonstrated that the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of ESC-MSCs and iPSC-MSCs was inferior to that of UCB-MSCs and BM-MSCs. Further investigation will clarify the potential of ESCs and iPSC-derived MSCs in AIBD treatment.
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Liau LL, Al-Masawa ME, Koh B, Looi QH, Foo JB, Lee SH, Cheah FC, Law JX. The Potential of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell as Therapy in Neonatal Diseases. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:591693. [PMID: 33251167 PMCID: PMC7672022 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.591693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can be derived from various tissue sources, such as the bone marrow (BMSCs), adipose tissue (ADSCs), umbilical cord (UC-MSCs) and umbilical cord blood (UCB-MSCs). Clinical trials have been conducted to investigate the potential of MSCs in ameliorating neonatal diseases, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). In preclinical studies, MSC therapy has been tested for the treatment of various neonatal diseases affecting the heart, eye, gut, and brain as well as sepsis. Up to date, the number of clinical trials using MSCs to treat neonatal diseases is still limited. The data reported thus far positioned MSC therapy as safe with positive outcomes. However, most of these trials are still preliminary and generally smaller in scale. Larger trials with more appropriate controls and a longer follow-up period need to be conducted to prove the safety and efficacy of the therapy more conclusively. This review discusses the current application of MSCs in treating neonatal diseases, its mechanism of action and future direction of this novel therapy, including the potential of using MSC-derived extracellular vesicles instead of the cells to treat various clinical conditions in the newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ling Liau
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maimonah Eissa Al-Masawa
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Benson Koh
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Qi Hao Looi
- Future Cytohealth Sdn Bhd, Bandar Seri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jhi Biau Foo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Sau Har Lee
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Fook Choe Cheah
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jia Xian Law
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Extracellular Vesicles as a Potential Therapy for Neonatal Conditions: State of the Art and Challenges in Clinical Translation. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11080404. [PMID: 31405234 PMCID: PMC6723449 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11080404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in intensive care, several neonatal conditions typically due to prematurity affect vital organs and are associated with high mortality and long-term morbidities. Current treatment strategies for these babies are only partially successful or are effective only in selected patients. Regenerative medicine has been shown to be a promising option for these conditions at an experimental level, but still warrants further exploration for the development of optimal treatment. Although stem cell-based therapy has emerged as a treatment option, studies have shown that it is associated with potential risks and hazards, especially in the fragile population of babies. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as an attractive therapeutic alternative that holds great regenerative potential and is cell-free. EVs are nanosized particles endogenously produced by cells that mediate intercellular communication through the transfer of their cargo. Currently, EVs are garnering considerable attention as they are the key effectors of stem cell paracrine signaling and can epigenetically regulate target cell genes through the release of RNA species, such as microRNA. Herein, we review the emerging literature on the therapeutic potential of EVs derived from different sources for the treatment of neonatal conditions that affect the brain, retinas, spine, lungs, and intestines and discuss the challenges for the translation of EVs into clinical practice.
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Drucker NA, Te Winkel JP, Shelley WC, Olson KR, Markel TA. Inhibiting hydrogen sulfide production in umbilical stem cells reduces their protective effects during experimental necrotizing enterocolitis. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:1168-1173. [PMID: 30879750 PMCID: PMC6545254 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.02.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Umbilical mesenchymal stem cells (USC) have been shown to reduce illness in animal models of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), possibly through the paracrine release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). We hypothesized that animals treated with USCs with inhibited H2S synthesis would exhibit more severe disease. METHODS NEC was induced in five-day-old mouse pups by formula feeding and hypoxic and hypothermic stress. Experimental groups received intraperitoneal injection of either saline vehicle or 80,000cells/gram of one of the following cell types: USC, USCs with negative-control siRNA, or USCs with targeted siRNA inhibition of the H2S-producing enzymes. Pups were monitored by clinical assessment and after euthanasia, intestine and lung histologic injury were scored. Tissue was homogenized, and concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, and VEGF were determined by ELISA. For statistical analysis, p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Animals treated with negative-control siRNA USCs were significantly improved compared to vehicle. Clinical sickness scores as well as intestinal and lung histologic injury scores in the targeted siRNA groups were significantly worse when compared to the negative-control siRNA group. IL-6, IL-10, and VEGF had varying patterns of expression in the different groups. CONCLUSION Inhibition of H2S production in USCs reduces the beneficial effects of these cells during therapy in experimental NEC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Animal studies are typically described as "foundational evidence" without a true level assigned. TYPE OF STUDY Animal Study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A Drucker
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN; The Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN.
| | - Jan P Te Winkel
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN; The Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
| | - W Christopher Shelley
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Kenneth R Olson
- The Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, South Bend, IN
| | - Troy A Markel
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN; The Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
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Gephart SM, Newnam KM. Closing the Gap Between Recommended and Actual Human Milk Use for Fragile Infants: What Will It Take to Overcome Disparities? Clin Perinatol 2019; 46:39-50. [PMID: 30771818 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the components of human milk and their value to reduce risk for necrotizing enterocolitis, disparities in access to human milk, potential relationships to care practices within the neonatal intensive care unit, and ways to overcome the disparity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila M Gephart
- Community and Health Systems Science Division, College of Nursing, The University of Arizona, PO Box 210203, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA.
| | - Katherine M Newnam
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee Knoxville, 1200 Volunteer Boulevard #361, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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Drucker NA, McCulloh CJ, Li B, Pierro A, Besner GE, Markel TA. Stem cell therapy in necrotizing enterocolitis: Current state and future directions. Semin Pediatr Surg 2018; 27:57-64. [PMID: 29275819 PMCID: PMC5745058 DOI: 10.1053/j.sempedsurg.2017.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment modality for necrotizing enterocolitis. Among the many promising stem cells identified to date, it is likely that mesenchymal stem cells will be the most useful and practical cell-based therapies for this condition. Using acellular components such as exosomes or other paracrine mediators are promising as well. Multiple mechanisms are likely at play in the positive effects provided by these cells, and further research is underway to further elucidate these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A. Drucker
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Christopher J. McCulloh
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Center for Perinatal Research, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Bo Li
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Agostino Pierro
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Translational Medicine Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gail E. Besner
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Center for Perinatal Research, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Troy A. Markel
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, IN
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14
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Dasgupta S, Jain SK. Protective effects of amniotic fluid in the setting of necrotizing enterocolitis. Pediatr Res 2017; 82:584-595. [PMID: 28609432 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2017.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common life threatening condition affecting preterm infants. NEC occurs in 1-5% of all neonatal intensive care admissions and 5-10% of very low birth weight infants. The protective role of human breast milk (BM) has been well established. It has also been shown that amniotic fluid (AF) and BM have many similarities in terms of presence of growth and other immune-modulatory factors. This finding led to the initial hypothesis that AF may exert similar protective effects against the development of NEC, as does BM. Multiple studies have elucidated the presence of growth factors in AF and the protective effect of AF against NEC. Studies have also described possible mechanisms how AF protects against NEC. At present, research in this particular area is extremely active and robust. This review summarizes the various studies looking at the protective effects of AF against the development of NEC. It also provides an insight into future directions, the vast potential of AF as a readily available biologic medium, and the ethical barriers that must be overcome before using AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soham Dasgupta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Sunil Kumar Jain
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
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15
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McCulloh CJ, Olson JK, Zhou Y, Wang Y, Besner GE. Stem cells and necrotizing enterocolitis: A direct comparison of the efficacy of multiple types of stem cells. J Pediatr Surg 2017; 52:999-1005. [PMID: 28366560 PMCID: PMC5467690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of gastrointestinal morbidity and mortality in premature infants. While studies have shown potential for stem cell (SC) therapy in experimental NEC, no study has compared different SC side-by-side. Our purpose was to determine whether one type of SC may more effectively treat NEC than others. METHODS Four SC were compared: (1) amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal SC (AF-MSC); (2) amniotic fluid-derived neural SC (AF-NSC); (3) bone marrow-derived mesenchymal SC (BM-MSC); and (4) neonatal enteric neural SC (E-NSC). Using an established rat model of NEC, pups delivered prematurely received an intraperitoneal injection of SC. Control pups were injected with PBS. Additional controls were breast-fed by surrogates and not subjected to experimental NEC. Intestinal tissue was graded histologically. RESULTS NEC incidence was: PBS, 61.3%; breast-fed unstressed, 0%; AF-MSC, 19.1%; BM-MSC, 22.9%; AF-NSC, 18.9%; E-NSC 22.2%. All groups demonstrated statistical significance (p<0.05) compared to controls, and there was no difference between SC groups. CONCLUSION All four SC groups reduced the incidence and severity of experimental NEC equivalently. AF-MSC may be preferable because of availability of AF at delivery and ease of expansion, increasing potential for clinical translation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V (Animal study).
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16
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Eaton S, Rees CM, Hall NJ. Current Research on the Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Management of Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Neonatology 2017; 111:423-430. [PMID: 28538238 DOI: 10.1159/000458462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite decades of research on necrotizing enterocolitis, we still do not fully understand the pathogenesis of the disease, or how to prevent or how to treat it. However, as a result of recent significant advances in the microbiology, molecular biology, and cell biology of the intestine of preterm infants and infants with necrotizing enterocolitis, there is some hope that research into this devastating disease will yield some important translation into effective prevention, more rapid diagnosis, and novel therapies.
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17
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Zubarioglu U, Uslu S, Bulbul A. New Frontiers of Necrotizing Enterocolitis: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Health (London) 2017. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2017.91008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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18
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Abstract
Despite decades of research on necrotizing enterocolitis, we still do not fully understand the pathogenesis of the disease, how to prevent or how to treat the disease. However, as a result of recent significant advances in the microbiology, molecular biology, and cell biology of the intestine of premature infants and infants with necrotizing enterocolitis, there is some hope that research into this devastating disease will yield some important translation into improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Eaton
- UCL Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.
| | - Clare M Rees
- UCL Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Nigel J Hall
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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19
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Laube M, Stolzing A, Thome UH, Fabian C. Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells for pulmonary complications associated with preterm birth. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 74:18-32. [PMID: 26928452 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Preterm infants frequently suffer from pulmonary complications resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Physiological and structural lung immaturity impairs perinatal lung transition to air breathing resulting in respiratory distress. Mechanical ventilation and oxygen supplementation ensure sufficient oxygen supply but enhance inflammatory processes which might lead to the establishment of a chronic lung disease called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Current therapeutic options to prevent or treat BPD are limited and have salient side effects, highlighting the need for new therapeutic approaches. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated therapeutic potential in animal models of BPD. This review focuses on MSC-based therapeutic approaches to treat pulmonary complications and critically compares results obtained in BPD models. Thereby bottlenecks in the translational systems are identified that are preventing progress in combating BPD. Notably, current animal models closely resemble the so-called "old" BPD with profound inflammation and injury, whereas clinical improvements shifted disease pathology towards a "new" BPD in which arrest of lung maturation predominates. Future studies need to evaluate the utility of MSC-based therapies in animal models resembling the "new" BPD though promising in vitro evidence suggests that MSCs do possess the potential to stimulate lung maturation. Furthermore, we address the mode-of-action of MSC-based therapies with regard to lung development and inflammation/fibrosis. Their therapeutic efficacy is mainly attributed to an enhancement of regeneration and immunomodulation due to paracrine effects. In addition, we discuss current improvement strategies by genetic modifications or precondition of MSCs to enhance their therapeutic efficacy which could also prove beneficial for BPD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Laube
- Center for Pediatric Research Leipzig, Hospital for Children & Adolescents, Division of Neonatology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Stolzing
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany; Loughborough University, Wolfson School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Centre for Biological Engineering, Loughborough, UK.
| | - Ulrich H Thome
- Center for Pediatric Research Leipzig, Hospital for Children & Adolescents, Division of Neonatology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Claire Fabian
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany; Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
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20
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Dziadosz M, Basch RS, Young BK. Human amniotic fluid: a source of stem cells for possible therapeutic use. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 214:321-7. [PMID: 26767797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.12.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the capacity for differentiation. Amniotic fluid cells have emerged only recently as a possible source of stem cells for clinical purposes. There are no ethical or sampling constraints for the use of amniocentesis as a standard clinical procedure for obtaining an abundant supply of amniotic fluid cells. Amniotic fluid cells of human origin proliferate rapidly and are multipotent with the potential for expansion in vitro to multiple cell lines. Tissue engineering technologies that use amniotic fluid cells are being explored. Amniotic fluid cells may be of clinical benefit for fetal therapies, degenerative disease, and regenerative medicine applications. We present a comprehensive review of the evolution of human amniotic fluid cells as a possible modality for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Dziadosz
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Ross S Basch
- Department of Pathology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Bruce K Young
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY.
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21
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Bohlin K. Cell-based strategies to reconstitute vital functions in preterm infants with organ failure. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2016; 31:99-111. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a devastating intestinal disease that affects ~5% of preterm neonates. Despite advancements in neonatal care, mortality remains high (30–50%) and controversy still persists with regards to the most appropriate management of neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis. Herein, we review some controversial aspects regarding the epidemiology, imaging, medical and surgical management of necrotizing enterocolitis and we describe new emerging strategies for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Zani
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Agostino Pierro
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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23
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Ramachandra DL, Shaw SSW, Shangaris P, Loukogeorgakis S, Guillot PV, Coppi PD, David AL. In utero therapy for congenital disorders using amniotic fluid stem cells. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:270. [PMID: 25566071 PMCID: PMC4271591 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital diseases are responsible for over a third of all pediatric hospital admissions. Advances in prenatal screening and molecular diagnosis have allowed the detection of many life-threatening genetic diseases early in gestation. In utero transplantation (IUT) with stem cells could cure affected fetuses but so far in humans, successful IUT using allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), has been limited to fetuses with severe immunologic defects and more recently IUT with allogeneic mesenchymal stem cell transplantation, has improved phenotype in osteogenesis imperfecta. The options of preemptive treatment of congenital diseases in utero by stem cell or gene therapy changes the perspective of congenital diseases since it may avoid the need for postnatal treatment and reduce future costs. Amniotic fluid stem (AFS) cells have been isolated and characterized in human, mice, rodents, rabbit, and sheep and are a potential source of cells for therapeutic applications in disorders for treatment prenatally or postnatally. Gene transfer to the cells with long-term transgenic protein expression is feasible. Recently, pre-clinical autologous transplantation of transduced cells has been achieved in fetal sheep using minimally invasive ultrasound guided injection techniques. Clinically relevant levels of transgenic protein were expressed in the blood of transplanted lambs for at least 6 months. The cells have also demonstrated the potential of repair in a range of pre-clinical disease models such as neurological disorders, tracheal repair, bladder injury, and diaphragmatic hernia repair in neonates or adults. These results have been encouraging, and bring personalized tissue engineering for prenatal treatment of genetic disorders closer to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durrgah L. Ramachandra
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Steven S. W. Shaw
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Prenatal Therapy, Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Panicos Shangaris
- Prenatal Therapy, Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stavros Loukogeorgakis
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Pascale V. Guillot
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Cellular Reprogramming and Perinatal Therapy, Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna L. David
- Prenatal Therapy, Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
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24
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Zhu D, Wallace EM, Lim R. Cell-based therapies for the preterm infant. Cytotherapy 2014; 16:1614-28. [PMID: 25154811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The severely preterm infant receives a multitude of life-saving interventions, many of which carry risks of serious side effects. Cell therapy is an important and promising arm of regenerative medicine that may address a number of these problems. Most forms of cellular therapy use stem/progenitor cells or stem-like cells, which have the capacity to migrate, engraft and exert anti-inflammatory effects. Although some of these cell-based therapies have made their way to clinical trials in adults, little headway has been made in the neonatal patient group. This review discusses the efficacy of cell therapy in preclinical studies to date and their potential applications to diseases that afflict many prematurely born infants. Specifically, we identify the major hurdles that must be overcome before cell therapies can be safely used in the neonatal intensive care unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zhu
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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