Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells derived from mesodermal lineage, characterized by their ability to differentiate into various cell types such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. These cells are non-hematopoietic and adhere to plastic surfaces under standard culture conditions. MSCs are primarily isolated from bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord, and other tissues.
Content on Mesenchymal Stem Cells
- Isolation and Culture: MSCs are isolated using density gradient centrifugation or enzymatic digestion, followed by adherence-based selection. Their proliferation is supported by specialized media containing growth factors such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF).
- Characteristics:
- Surface Markers: Positive for CD73, CD90, CD105; negative for CD34, CD45, CD14, CD19, and HLA-DR.
- Differentiation Potential: Tri-lineage differentiation into bone, cartilage, and fat.
- Immunomodulatory Properties: Suppression of T-cell proliferation, regulation of inflammatory cytokines, and interaction with immune cells.
- Mechanism of Action: MSCs exert therapeutic effects via paracrine signaling, extracellular vesicles, and immunomodulation. Their ability to home to sites of injury or inflammation is mediated by chemokines such as CXCL12 and receptors like CXCR4.
Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
- Regenerative Medicine:
- Orthopedics: Used in bone and cartilage regeneration in conditions like osteoarthritis and fractures.
- Cardiology: Application in myocardial infarction and ischemic heart disease to enhance cardiac repair.
- Neurology: Investigated for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries.
- Immunotherapy:
- Modulation of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) post-transplant.
- Application in autoimmune diseases such as Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Wound Healing:
- Acceleration of epithelialization and angiogenesis in chronic wounds and burns.
- Drug Delivery:
- MSCs are explored as carriers for therapeutic agents, including anti-cancer drugs and gene therapies, due to their homing abilities.
MSCs are pivotal in translational medicine due to their unique properties and potential to address unmet clinical needs across a range of therapeutic domains.
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