Plasma exosomes from patients with active thyroid-associated orbitopathy induce inflammation and fibrosis in orbital fibroblasts.

BACKGROUND: The pathogenesis of thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) remains incompletely understand. The interaction between immunocytes and orbital fibroblasts (OFs) play a critical role in orbital inflammatory and fibrosis. Accumulating reports indicate that a significant portion of plasma exosomes (Pla-Exos) are derived from immune cells; however, their impact upon OFs function is unclear. METHODS: OFs were primary cultured from inactive TAO patients. Exosomes isolated from plasma samples of patients with active TAO and healthy controls (HCs) were utilized for functional and RNA cargo analysis. Functional analysis in thymocyte differentiation antigen-1+ (Thy-1+) OFs measured expression of inflammatory and fibrotic markers (mRNAs and proteins) and cell activity in response to Pla-Exos. RNA cargo analysis was performed by RNA sequencing and RT-qPCR. Thy-1+ OFs were transfected with miR-144-3p mimics/inhibitors to evaluate its regulation of inflammation, fibrosis, and proliferation. RESULTS: Pla-Exos derived from active TAO patients (Pla-ExosTAO-A) induced stronger production of inflammatory cytokines and hyaluronic acid (HA) in Thy-1+ OFs while inhibiting their proliferation. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) suggested that the difference in mRNA expression levels between Pla-ExosTAO-A and Pla-ExosHC was closely related to immune cells. Differential expression analysis revealed that 62 upregulated and 45 downregulated miRNAs in Pla-ExosTAO-A, with the elevation of miR-144-3p in both Pla-Exos and PBMCs in active TAO group. KEGG analysis revealed that the target genes of differentially expressed miRNA and miR-144-3p enriched in immune-related signaling pathways. Overexpression of the miR-144-3p mimic significantly upregulated the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and HA in Thy-1+ OFs while inhibiting their proliferation. CONCLUSION: Pla-Exos derived from patients with active TAO were immune-active, which may be a long-term stimulus casual for inflammatory and fibrotic progression of TAO. Our finding suggests that Pla-Exos could be used as biomarkers or treatment targets in TAO patients.

A Thy-1-negative immunofibroblast population emerges as a key determinant of fibrotic outcomes to biomaterials.

Fibrosis-associated fibroblasts have been identified across various fibrotic disorders, but not in the context of biomaterials, fibrotic encapsulation, and the foreign body response. In other fibrotic disorders, a fibroblast subpopulation defined by Thy-1 loss is strongly correlated with fibrosis yet we do not know what promotes Thy-1 loss. We have previously shown that Thy-1 is an integrin regulator enabling normal fibroblast mechanosensing, and here, leveraging nonfibrotic microporous annealed particle (MAP) hydrogels versus classical fibrotic bulk hydrogels, we demonstrate that Thy1-/- mice mount a fibrotic response to MAP gels that includes inflammatory signaling. We found that a distinct and cryptic α-smooth muscle actin-positive Thy-1- fibroblast population emerges in response to interleuklin-1ß (IL-1ß) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα). Furthermore, IL-1ß/TNFα-induced Thy-1- fibroblasts consist of two distinct subpopulations that are strongly proinflammatory. These findings illustrate the emergence of a unique proinflammatory, profibrotic fibroblast subpopulation that is central to fibrotic encapsulation of biomaterials.

THY1 is a prognostic-related biomarker via mediating immune infiltration in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC).

Thymus cell antigen 1 (THY1) has been proven to play pivotal roles in many diseases. However, we do not fully understand its functional mechanism, especially in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Here, we aimed to perform a comprehensive analysis to explore the expression and prognostic values of THY1 in LUSC using bioinformatic technology. Some online public databases (e.g., ONCOMINE, PrognoScan, TIMER, Kaplan-Meier plotter, STRING, LinkedOmics, and GEPIA) were used to explore the expression, prognostic significance, and potential molecular mechanism of THY1. The analysis indicated that THY1 was significantly up-regulated and closely correlated with poor prognosis in many malignant tumors, including LUSC. Further analysis revealed that over-expression of THY1 was significantly correlated with clinicopathological parameters (e.g., individual cancer stage, age, smoking habits, nodal metastasis status, and TP53 mutation status) in LUSC. The CpG islands methylation of THY1 was negatively correlated with THY1 mRNA expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA). Further enrichment analysis of THY1 correlated genes revealed that they were mainly correlated with the formation of extracellular matrix (ECM), and got involved in the pathway of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, differentially expressed THY1 was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltrations and poor prognosis in LUSC. In summary, bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that THY1 was significantly over-expressed and closely correlated with unfavorable prognosis in LUSC, which may apply as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for LUSC in the future.

Thy-1 restricts steatosis and liver fibrosis in steatotic liver disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is generally considered to represent a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and includes a disease spectrum comprising isolated steatosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis and ultimately cirrhosis. A better understanding of the detailed underlying pathogenic mechanisms of this transition is crucial for the design of new and efficient therapeutic interventions. Thymocyte differentiation antigen (Thy-1, also known as CD90) expression on fibroblasts controls central functions relevant to fibrogenesis, including proliferation, apoptosis, cytokine responsiveness, and myofibroblast differentiation. METHODS: The impact of Thy-1 on the development of SLD and progression to fibrosis was investigated in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced SLD wild-type and Thy-1-deficient mice. In addition, the serum soluble Thy-1 (sThy-1) concentration was analysed in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD stratified according to steatosis, inflammation, or liver fibrosis using noninvasive markers. RESULTS: We demonstrated that Thy-1 attenuates the development of fatty liver and the expression of profibrogenic genes in the livers of HFD-induced SLD mice. Mechanistically, Thy-1 directly inhibits the profibrotic activation of nonparenchymal liver cells. In addition, Thy-1 prevents palmitic acid-mediated amplification of the inflammatory response of myeloid cells, which might indirectly contribute to the pronounced development of liver fibrosis in Thy-1-deficient mice. Serum analysis of patients with metabolically associated steatotic liver disease syndrome revealed that sThy-1 expression is correlated with liver fibrosis status, as assessed by liver stiffness, the Fib4 score, and the NAFLD fibrosis score. CONCLUSION: Our data strongly suggest that Thy-1 may function as a fibrosis-protective factor in mouse and human SLD.

Micro/nano topological modification of TiO2 nanotubes activates Thy-1 signaling to control osteogenic differentiation of stem cells.

Micro/nano topological modification is critical for improving the in vivo behaviors of bone implants, regulating multiple cellular functions. Titania (TiO2) nanotubes show the capacity of promoting osteoblast-related cell differentiation and induce effective osseointegration, serving as a model material for studying the effects of micro/nano-topological modifications on cells. However, the intracellular signaling pathways by which TiO2 nanotubes regulate the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells are not fully defined. Thy-1 (CD90), a cell surface glycoprotein anchored by glycosylphosphatidylinositol, has been considered a key molecule in osteoblast differentiation in recent years. Nevertheless, whether the micro/nano topology of the implant surface leads to changes in Thy-1 is unknown, as well as whether these changes promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Here, TiO2 nanotubes of various diameters were prepared by adjusting the anodizing voltage. qPCR and immunoblot were carried out to assess the mechanism by which TiO2 nanotubes regulate Thy-1. The results revealed Ti plates harboring TiO2 nanotubes ∼100-nm diameter (TNT-100) markedly upregulated Thy-1. Subsequently, upregulated Thy-1 promoted the activation of Fyn/RhoA/MLC Ⅱ/F-actin axis, which enhanced the nuclear translocation of YAP. After Thy-1 knockdown by siRNA, the Fyn/RhoA/MLC Ⅱ/F-actin axis was significantly inhibited and TiO2 nanotubes showed decreased effects on osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, Thy-1 upregulation might be a major mechanism by which micro/nano-topological modification of TiO2 nanotubes promotes osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs. This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanism of TiO2 nanotubes, which may help design improved bone implants for clinical application.

Thy-1 knockdown promotes the osteogenic differentiation of GMSCs via the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway.

Gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) are newly developed seed cells for tissue engineering owing to their easy isolation, abundance and high growth rates. Thy-1 is an important regulatory molecule in the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In this study, we investigated the function of Thy-1 in the osteogenic differentiation of GMSCs by reducing the expression of Thy-1 using a lentivirus. The results demonstrated that Thy-1 knockdown promoted the osteogenic differentiation of GMSCs in vitro. Validation by RNA-seq revealed an obvious decrease in Vcam1 and Sox9 gene expression with Thy-1 knockdown. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis suggested that the differentially expressed genes were enriched in the Wnt signalling pathway. We further demonstrated that Thy-1 knockdown promoted osteogenic differentiation of GMSCs by activating the Wnt/ß-catenin signalling pathway. Therefore, Thy-1 has a key regulatory role in the differentiation of GMSCs and maybe a core molecule connecting transcription factors related to the differentiation of MSCs. Our study also highlighted the potential of Thy-1 to modify MSCs, which may help improve their use in tissue engineering.

FGF21 alleviates adipose stem cell senescence via CD90 glycosylation-dependent glucose influx in remodeling healthy white adipose tissue.

The senescence of adipose stem cells (ASCs) impairs healthy adipose tissue remodeling, causing metabolic maladaptation to energy surplus. The intrinsic molecular pathways and potential therapy targets for ASC senescence are largely unclear. Here, we showed that visceral ASCs were prone to senescence that was caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) overload, especially mitochondrial ROS. These senescent ASCs failed to sustain efficient glucose influx, pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) and redox homeostasis. We showed that CD90 silence restricted the glucose uptake by ASCs and thus disrupted their PPP and anti-oxidant system, resulting in ASC senescence. Notably, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) treatment significantly reduced the senescent phenotypes of ASCs by augmenting CD90 protein via glycosylation, which promoted glucose influx via the AKT-GLUT4 axis and therefore mitigated ROS overload. For diet-induced obese mice, chronic administration of low-dose FGF21 relieved their visceral white adipose tissue (VAT) dysfunction and systemic metabolic disorders. In particular, VAT homeostasis was restored in FGF21-treated obese mice, where ASC repertoire was markedly recovered, accompanied by CD90 elevation and anti-senescent phenotypes in these ASCs. Collectively, we reveal a molecular mechanism of ASC senescence by which CD90 downregulation interferes glucose influx into PPP and redox homeostasis. And we propose a FGF21-based strategy for healthy VAT remodeling, which targets CD90 glycosylation to correct ASC senescence and therefore combat obesity-related metabolic dysfunction.

Antifibrotic Soluble Thy-1 Correlates with Renal Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease.

Kidney fibrosis is a major culprit in the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), ultimately leading to the irreversible loss of organ function. Thymocyte differentiation antigen-1 (Thy-1) controls many core functions of fibroblasts relevant to fibrogenesis but is also found in a soluble form (sThy-1) in serum and urine. We investigated the association of sThy-1 with clinical parameters in patients with CKD receiving hemodialysis treatment compared to individuals with a preserved renal function. Furthermore, Thy-1 tissue expression was detected in a mouse model of diabetic CKD (eNOS-/-; db/db) and non-diabetic control mice (eNOS-/-). Serum and urinary sThy-1 concentrations significantly increased with deteriorating renal function, independent of the presence of diabetes. Serum creatinine is the major, independent, and inverse predictor of serum sThy-1 levels. Moreover, sThy-1 is not only predicted by markers of renal function but is also itself an independent and strong predictor of markers of renal function, i.e., serum creatinine. Mice with severe diabetic CKD show increased Thy-1 mRNA and protein expression in the kidney compared to control animals, as well as elevated urinary sThy-1 levels. Pro-fibrotic mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, IL-6 and transforming growth factor ß, increase Thy-1 gene expression and release of sThy-1 from fibroblasts. Our data underline the role of Thy-1 in the control of kidney fibrosis in CKD and raise the opportunity that Thy-1 may function as a renal antifibrotic factor.

Protein kinase B (AKT) upregulation and Thy-1-αvß3 integrin-induced phosphorylation of Connexin43 by activated AKT in astrogliosis.

BACKGROUND: In response to brain injury or inflammation, astrocytes undergo hypertrophy, proliferate, and migrate to the damaged zone. These changes, collectively known as "astrogliosis", initially protect the brain; however, astrogliosis can also cause neuronal dysfunction. Additionally, these astrocytes undergo intracellular changes involving alterations in the expression and localization of many proteins, including αvß3 integrin. Our previous reports indicate that Thy-1, a neuronal glycoprotein, binds to this integrin inducing Connexin43 (Cx43) hemichannel (HC) opening, ATP release, and astrocyte migration. Despite such insight, important links and molecular events leading to astrogliosis remain to be defined. METHODS: Using bioinformatics approaches, we analyzed different Gene Expression Omnibus datasets to identify changes occurring in reactive astrocytes as compared to astrocytes from the normal mouse brain. In silico analysis was validated by both qRT-PCR and immunoblotting using reactive astrocyte cultures from the normal rat brain treated with TNF and from the brain of a hSOD1G93A transgenic mouse model. We evaluated the phosphorylation of Cx43 serine residue 373 (S373) by AKT and ATP release as a functional assay for HC opening. In vivo experiments were also performed with an AKT inhibitor (AKTi). RESULTS: The bioinformatics analysis revealed that genes of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway were among the most significantly altered in reactive astrocytes. mRNA and protein levels of PI3K, AKT, as well as Cx43, were elevated in reactive astrocytes from normal rats and from hSOD1G93A transgenic mice, as compared to controls. In vitro, reactive astrocytes stimulated with Thy-1 responded by activating AKT, which phosphorylated S373Cx43. Increased pS373Cx43 augmented the release of ATP to the extracellular medium and AKTi inhibited these Thy-1-induced responses. Furthermore, in an in vivo model of inflammation (brain damage), AKTi decreased the levels of astrocyte reactivity markers and S373Cx43 phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS: Here, we identify changes in the PI3K/AKT molecular signaling network and show how they participate in astrogliosis by regulating the HC protein Cx43. Moreover, because HC opening and ATP release are important in astrocyte reactivity, the phosphorylation of Cx43 by AKT and the associated increase in ATP release identify a potential therapeutic window of opportunity to limit the adverse effects of astrogliosis.

Short-Term Storage of Mobilized Peripheral Blood Stem Cells in a Closed System Changes the Microenvironment and May Affect the Quantity of CD34+ and CD34+CD38-CD45RA-CD90+ Cells.

Hypoxic conditions preserve the multipotency and self-renewing capacity of murine bone marrow and human cord blood stem cells. Blood samples stored in sealed blood gas tubes become hypoxic as leukocytes metabolize and consume oxygen. Taken together, these observations suggest that peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) samples stored under airtight conditions become hypoxic, and that the stem cells contained may undergo qualitative or quantitative changes. This study aimed to determine the effect of storage for 8 hours in a sealed system on PBSC samples. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized PBSC samples were collected prospectively from 9 patients with myeloma or amyloidosis prior to apheresis, followed by measurement of CO2, O2, hydrogen ion (pH), lactate, and glucose concentrations in the blood and immunophenotyping of stem cell and multipotent progenitor cell populations before and after 8 hours of storage in sealed blood collection tubes. Blood concentrations of O2 and glucose and pH measurements were significantly decreased, whereas concentrations of CO2 and lactate were significantly increased after storage. Significantly higher concentrations of CD34+ cells (552 ± 84 cells/106 total nucleated cells [TNCs] versus 985 ± 143 cells/106 TNCs; P = .03), CD34+CD38- cells (98 ± 32 cells/106 TNCs versus 158 ± 52 cells/106 TNCs; P = .03), CD34+CD38+ cells (444 ± 92 cells/106 TNCs versus 789 ± 153 cells/106 TNCs; P = .03), and CD34+CD38-CD45RA-CD90+ cells (55 ± 17 cells/106 TNCs versus 89 ± 25 cells/106 TNCs; P = .02) were detected after 8 hours of storage. The changes in concentrations of CD34+CD38+ cells and CD34+ cells were inversely associated with the change in glucose concentration (P = .003 and P < .001, respectively) and positively associated with the change in lactate concentration (P = .01 and P <.001, respectively) after 8 hours of airtight storage. Storage of PBSC samples in a sealed, airtight environment is associated with microenvironmental changes consistent with hypoxia and increased concentrations of immunophenotypically defined stem cells. These results may have clinical implications with regard to the collection and processing of stem cell products and warrant confirmation with functional and mechanistic studies.

Sex differences exist in adult heart group 2 innate lymphoid cells.

BACKGROUND: Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are the most dominant ILCs in heart tissue, and sex-related differences exist in mouse lung ILC2 phenotypes and functions; however, it is still unclear whether there are sex differences in heart ILC2s. RESULTS: Compared with age-matched wild-type (WT) male mice, 8-week-old but not 3-week-old WT female mice harbored an obviously greater percentage and number of heart ILC2s in homeostasis. However, the percentage of killer-cell lectin-like receptor G1 (Klrg1)- ILC2s was higher, but the Klrg1+ ILC2s were lower in female mice than in male mice in both heart tissues of 3- and 8-week-old mice. Eight-week-old Rag2-/- mice also showed sex differences similar to those of age-matched WT mice. Regarding surface marker expression, compared to age-matched male mice, WT female mice showed higher expression of CD90.2 and Ki67 and lower expression of Klrg1 and Sca-1 in heart total ILC2s. There was no sex difference in IL-4 and IL-5 secretion by male and female mouse heart ILC2s. Increased IL-33 mRNA levels within the heart tissues were also found in female mice compared with male mice. By reanalyzing published single-cell RNA sequencing data, we found 2 differentially expressed genes between female and male mouse heart ILC2s. Gene set variation analysis revealed that the glycine, serine and threonine metabolism pathway was upregulated in female heart ILC2s. Subcluster analysis revealed that one cluster of heart ILC2s with relatively lower expression of Semaphorin 4a and thioredoxin interacting protein but higher expression of hypoxia-inducible lipid droplet-associated. CONCLUSIONS: These results revealed greater numbers of ILC2s, higher expression of CD90.2, reduced Klrg1 and Sca-1 expression in the hearts of female mice than in male mice and no sex difference in IL-4 and IL-5 production in male and female mouse heart ILC2s. These sex differences in heart ILC2s might be due to the heterogeneity of IL-33 within the heart tissue.

The GPI-Anchored Protein Thy-1/CD90 Promotes Wound Healing upon Injury to the Skin by Enhancing Skin Perfusion.

Wound healing is a highly regulated multi-step process that involves a plethora of signals. Blood perfusion is crucial in wound healing and abnormalities in the formation of new blood vessels define the outcome of the wound healing process. Thy-1 has been implicated in angiogenesis and silencing of the Thy-1 gene retards the wound healing process. However, the role of Thy-1 in blood perfusion during wound closure remains unclear. We proposed that Thy-1 regulates vascular perfusion, affecting the healing rate in mouse skin. We analyzed the time of recovery, blood perfusion using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging, and tissue morphology from images acquired with a Nanozoomer tissue scanner. The latter was assessed in a tissue sample taken with a biopsy punch on several days during the wound healing process. Results obtained with the Thy-1 knockout (Thy-1-/-) mice were compared with control mice. Thy-1-/- mice showed at day seven, a delayed re-epithelialization, increased micro- to macro-circulation ratio, and lower blood perfusion in the wound area. In addition, skin morphology displayed a flatter epidermis, fewer ridges, and almost no stratum granulosum or corneum, while the dermis was thicker, showing more fibroblasts and fewer lymphocytes. Our results suggest a critical role for Thy-1 in wound healing, particularly in vascular dynamics.

Thy-1 plays a pathogenic role and is a potential biomarker for skin fibrosis in scleroderma.

Thy-1 (CD90) is a well-known marker of fibroblasts implicated in organ fibrosis, but its contribution to skin fibrosis remains unknown. We examined Thy-1 expression in scleroderma skin and its potential role as a biomarker and pathogenic factor in animal models of skin fibrosis. Skin from patients with systemic sclerosis demonstrated markedly elevated Thy-1 expression compared with controls, colocalized with fibroblast activator protein in the deep dermis, and correlated with the severity of skin involvement (modified Rodnan skin score). Serial imaging of skin from Thy-1 yellow fluorescent protein reporter mice by IVIS showed an increase in Thy-1 expression that correlated with onset and progression of fibrosis. In contrast to lung fibrosis, Thy-1-KO mice had attenuated skin fibrosis in both bleomycin and tight skin-1 murine models. Moreover, Thy-1 regulated key pathogenic pathways involved in fibrosis, including inflammation, myofibroblast differentiation, apoptosis, and multiple additional canonical fibrotic pathways. Therefore, although Thy-1 deficiency leads to exacerbated lung fibrosis, in skin it is protective. Moreover, Thy-1 may serve as a longitudinal marker to assess skin fibrosis.

Synovial membrane-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells from osteoarthritic joints in dogs possess lower chondrogenic-, and higher osteogenic capacity compared to normal joints.

BACKGROUND: Synovial membrane-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (SM-MPCs) are a promising candidate for the cell-based treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) considering their in vitro and in vivo capacity for cartilage repair. However, the OA environment may adversely impact their regenerative capacity. There are no studies for canine (c)SM-MPCs that compare normal to OA SM-MPCs, even though dogs are considered a relevant animal model for OA. Therefore, this study compared cSM-MPCs from normal and OA synovial membrane tissue to elucidate the effect of the OA environment on MPC numbers, indicated by CD marker profile and colony-forming unit (CFU) capacity, and the impact of the OA niche on tri-lineage differentiation. METHODS: Normal and OA synovial membrane were collected from the knee joints of healthy dogs and dogs with rupture of the cruciate ligaments. The synovium was assessed by histopathological OARSI scoring and by RT-qPCR for inflammation/synovitis-related markers. The presence of cSM-MPCs in the native tissue was further characterized with flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, and immunohistochemistry, using the MPC markers; CD90, CD73, CD44, CD271, and CD34. Furthermore, cells isolated upon enzymatic digestion were characterized by CFU capacity, and a population doublings assay. cSM-MPCs were selected based on plastic adherence, expanded to passage 2, and evaluated for the expression of MPC-related surface markers and tri-lineage differentiation capacity. RESULTS: Synovial tissue collected from the OA joints had a significantly higher OARSI score compared to normal joints, and significantly upregulated inflammation/synovitis markers S100A8/9, IL6, IL8, and CCL2. Both normal and OA synovial membrane contained cells displaying MPC properties, including a fibroblast-like morphology, CFU capacity, and maintained MPC marker expression over time during expansion. However, OA cSM-MPCs were unable to differentiate towards the chondrogenic lineage and had low adipogenic capacity in contrast to normal cSM-MPCs, whereas they possessed a higher osteogenic capacity. Furthermore, the OA synovial membrane contained significantly lower percentages of CD90+, CD44+, CD34+, and CD271+ cells. CONCLUSIONS: The OA environment had adverse effects on the regenerative potential of cSM-MPCs, corroborated by decreased CFU, population doubling, and chondrogenic capacity compared to normal cSM-MPCs. OA cSM-MPCs may be a less optimal candidate for the cell-based treatment of OA than normal cSM-MPCs.

Full spectrum flow cytometry reveals mesenchymal heterogeneity in first trimester placentae and phenotypic convergence in culture, providing insight into the origins of placental mesenchymal stromal cells.

Single-cell technologies (RNA-sequencing, flow cytometry) are critical tools to reveal how cell heterogeneity impacts developmental pathways. The placenta is a fetal exchange organ, containing a heterogeneous mix of mesenchymal cells (fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, perivascular, and progenitor cells). Placental mesenchymal stromal cells (pMSC) are also routinely isolated, for therapeutic and research purposes. However, our understanding of the diverse phenotypes of placental mesenchymal lineages, and their relationships remain unclear. We designed a 23-colour flow cytometry panel to assess mesenchymal heterogeneity in first-trimester human placentae. Four distinct mesenchymal subsets were identified; CD73+CD90+ mesenchymal cells, CD146+CD271+ perivascular cells, podoplanin+CD36+ stromal cells, and CD26+CD90+ myofibroblasts. CD73+CD90+ and podoplanin + CD36+ cells expressed markers consistent with cultured pMSCs, and were explored further. Despite their distinct ex-vivo phenotype, in culture CD73+CD90+ cells and podoplanin+CD36+ cells underwent phenotypic convergence, losing CD271 or CD36 expression respectively, and homogenously exhibiting a basic MSC phenotype (CD73+CD90+CD31-CD144-CD45-). However, some markers (CD26, CD146) were not impacted, or differentially impacted by culture in different populations. Comparisons of cultured phenotypes to pMSCs further suggested cultured pMSCs originate from podoplanin+CD36+ cells. This highlights the importance of detailed cell phenotyping to optimise therapeutic capacity, and ensure use of relevant cells in functional assays.

Biophysical evaluation of treating adipose tissue-derived stem cells using non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma.

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAPP) is a partially ionized gas containing fast electrons and relatively slow ions. This study aims to investigate the influences of NTAPP on human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and examine the feasibility of using optical spectroscopy as a non-destructive method for cell analysis. A plasma jet is used as the source of low-temperature plasma in which pure helium gas is ionized by a high voltage (8 kV) and frequency (6 kHz). ADSCs were exposed to the NTAPP for 30 s, 60 s, 90 s, and 120 s. The efficiency of the plasma treatment was investigated using flow cytometry and optical spectroscopy methods. This study compared surface markers of NTAPP treated and untreated ADSCs using CD90 and CD105 as positive markers. The result proved that NTAPP-exposed ADSCs maintain their stemming. Measuring ADSCS apoptosis by labeling Annexin V-Propidium Iodide showed that the plasma at short exposure time is relatively non-toxic. However, a longer exposure time can lead to apoptosis and necrosis. Moreover, Cell cycle analysis revealed that NTAPP accelerates the cell cycle in very low doses and can cause proliferation. In this experiment, flow cytometry measurements have been used to determine oxidative stress. The results showed that with increasing plasma dose, intracellular ROS levels reduced. This data also suggests that intracellular ROS are not responsible for the cells' viability. Furthermore, we used reflectance spectroscopy as a non-destructive method for evaluating treatment response and comparing this method with cell analysis techniques. The results indicate spectroscopy's efficiency as a method of cell analysis. This study suggests that NTAPP would be an efficient tool to improve ADSCs culture's efficiency in vitro; thus, we support the potential applications of NTAPP in the field of stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine.

CD90 Marks a Mesenchymal Program in Human Thymic Epithelial Cells In Vitro and In Vivo.

Thymic epithelium is critical for the structural integrity of the thymus and for T cell development. Within the fully formed thymus, large numbers of hematopoietic cells shape the thymic epithelium into a scaffold-like structure which bears little similarity to classical epithelial layers, such as those observed in the skin, intestine or pancreas. Here, we show that human thymic epithelial cells (TECs) possess an epithelial identity that also incorporates the expression of mesenchymal cell associated genes, whose expression levels vary between medullary and cortical TECs (m/cTECs). Using pluripotent stem cell (PSC) differentiation systems, we identified a unique population of cells that co-expressed the master TEC transcription factor FOXN1, as well as the epithelial associated marker EPCAM and the mesenchymal associated gene CD90. Using the same serum free culture conditions, we also observed co-expression of EPCAM and CD90 on cultured TECs derived from neonatal human thymus in vitro. Single cell RNA-sequencing revealed these cultured TECs possessed an immature mTEC phenotype and expressed epithelial and mesenchymal associated genes, such as EPCAM, CLDN4, CD90 and COL1A1. Importantly, flow cytometry and single cell RNA-sequencing analysis further confirmed the presence of an EPCAM+CD90+ population in the CD45- fraction of neonatal human thymic stromal cells in vivo. Using the human thymus cell atlas, we found that cTECs displayed more pronounced mesenchymal characteristics than mTECs during embryonic development. Collectively, these results suggest human TECs possess a hybrid gene expression program comprising both epithelial and mesenchymal elements, and provide a basis for the further exploration of thymus development from primary tissues and from the in vitro differentiation of PSCs.

Minimum criteria for defining induced mesenchymal stem cells.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising cell type for cell-based therapies. The therapeutic potential of MSCs has been verified in preclinical and clinical studies, however; low cell number in adult tissues, restricted expansion and differentiation capacity, and donor-related heterogeneity limit their use. To address these issues, there has been considerable interest in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived MSCs (induced mesenchymal stem cells [iMSCs]). Investigators obtain iMSCs from iPSCs of different origins, with variable methods of generation and expansion. Results of current studies have suggested iMSCs as a unique alternative source of MSCs. However, iMSCs are defined using the same criteria (proposed previously for primary MSCs by the International Society for Cellular Therapy [ISCT]) without realizing the distinct nature of iMSCs as compared to primary MSCs. To rationally define iMSCs, additional characterization is proposed along with ISCT's minimum criteria for defining primary MSCs. Minimum criteria for defining iMSCs should include (1) spindle-shaped morphology, (2) plastic adherent growth, (3) positive expression of CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, along with negative expression of hematopoietic markers (CD45, CD34, CD14 or CD11b, CD79α or CD19, HLA-DR), (4) lack of expression of iPSCs induction factors, (5) trilineage differentiation potential, (6) lack of ability to form teratoma, and (7) release of MSC relevant paracrine factors. Defining the minimum criteria for iMSCs will be of great interest in the field and will provide a uniform description and identification of iMSCs to expedite progress in the field. Furthermore, due to increased interest in the clinical use of iMSCs, the above-mentioned additional characterization before the clinical application is important to avoid unwanted complications for recipients.

USF1/CD90 signaling in maintaining glioblastoma stem cells and tumor-associated macrophages adhesion.

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and their interplay with tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are responsible for malignant growth and tumor recurrence of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. METHODS: Cell viability, stemness, migration, and invasion were measured in GSCs after the knockdown of upstream stimulating factor 1 (USF1). Luciferase assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation qPCR were performed to determine the regulation of CD90 by USF1. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescent staining were used to examine the expression of USF1 and GSC markers, as well as the crosstalk between GSCs and TAMs. In addition, the interaction between GSCs and TAMs was confirmed using in vivo GBM models. RESULTS: We show that USF1 promotes malignant glioblastoma phenotypes and GSCs-TAMs physical interaction by inducing CD90 expression. USF1 predicts a poor prognosis for glioma patients and is upregulated in patient-derived GSCs and glioblastoma cell lines. USF1 overexpression increases the proliferation, invasion, and neurosphere formation of GSCs and glioblastoma cell lines, while USF1 knockdown exerts an opposite effect. Further mechanistic studies reveal that USF1 promotes GSC stemness by directly regulating CD90 expression. Importantly, CD90 of GSCs functions as an anchor for physical interaction with macrophages. Additionally, the USF1/CD90 signaling axis supports the GSCs and TAMs adhesion and immunosuppressive feature of TAMs, which in turn enhance the stemness of GSCs. Moreover, the overexpression of CD90 restores the stemness property in USF1 knockdown GSCs and its immunosuppressive microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that the USF1/CD90 axis might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of glioblastoma.

CD90 is regulated by notch1 and hallmarks a more aggressive intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma phenotype.

BACKGROUND: Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is characterized by a strong stromal reaction playing a role in tumor progression. Thymus cell antigen 1 (THY1), also called Cluster of Differentiation 90 (CD90), is a key regulator of cell-cell and cell-matrix interaction. In iCCA, CD90 has been reported to be associated with a poor prognosis. In an iCCA PDX model, we recently found that CD90 was downregulated in mice treated with the Notch γ-secretase inhibitor Crenigacestat. The study aims to investigate the role of CD90 in relation to the NOTCH pathway. METHODS: THY1/CD90 gene and protein expression was evaluated in human iCCA tissues and xenograft models by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Notch1 inhibition was achieved by siRNA. THY1/CD90 functions were investigated in xenograft models built with HuCCT1 and KKU-M213 cell lines, engineered to overexpress or knockdown THY1, respectively. RESULTS: CD90 co-localized with EPCAM, showing its epithelial origin. In vitro, NOTCH1 silencing triggered HES1 and THY1 down-regulation. RBPJ, a critical transcriptional regulator of NOTCH signaling, exhibited putative binding sites on the THY1 promoter and bound to the latter, implying CD90 as a downstream NOTCH pathway effector. In vivo, Crenigacestat suppressed iCCA growth and reduced CD90 expression in the PDX model. In the xenograft model, Crenigacestat inhibited tumor growth of HuCCT1 cells transfected to overexpress CD90 and KKU-M213 cells constitutively expressing high levels of CD90, while not affecting the growth of HuCCT1 control cells and KKU-M213 depleted of CD90. In an iCCA cohort, patients with higher expression levels of NOTCH1/HES1/THY1 displayed a significantly shorter survival. CONCLUSIONS: iCCA patients with higher NOTCH1/HES1/THY1 expression have the worst prognosis, but they are more likely to benefit from Notch signaling inhibition. These findings represent the scientific rationale for testing NOTCH1 inhibitors in clinical trials, taking the first step toward precision medicine for iCCA.