TGF-ß secreted by human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells ameliorates atopic dermatitis by inhibiting secretion of TNF-α and IgE.

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutics for autoimmune diseases due to their immunomodulatory effects. In particular, human umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) have a prominent therapeutic effect on atopic dermatitis (AD). However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. This study investigated the role of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-ß) in the therapeutic effect of hUCB-MSCs on AD. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated depletion of TGF-ß disrupted the therapeutic effect of hUCB-MSCs in a mouse model of AD by attenuating the beneficial changes in histopathology, mast cell infiltration, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) expression, and the serum IgE level. To confirm that hUCB-MSCs regulate secretion of TNF-α, we investigated whether they inhibit TNF-α secretion by activated LAD2 cells. Coculture with hUCB-MSCs significantly inhibited secretion of TNF-α by LAD2 cells. However, this effect was abolished by siRNA-mediated depletion of TGF-ß in hUCB-MSCs. TNF-α expression in activated LAD2 cells was regulated by the extracellular signal-related kinase signaling pathway and was suppressed by TGF-ß secreted from hUCB-MSCs. In addition, TGF-ß secreted by hUCB-MSCs inhibited maturation of B cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that TGF-ß plays a key role in the therapeutic effect of hUCB-MSCs on AD by regulating TNF-α in mast cells and maturation of B cells.

Differentiation of Motor Neuron-Like Cells from Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Possible Application to Neuromuscular Junction Formation.

Human tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs) are newly identified MSCs and present typical features of MSCs, including having the differentiation capacity into the three germ layers and excellent proliferation capacity. They are easily sourced and are useful for stem cell therapy in various disease states. We previously reported that T-MSCs could be differentiated into skeletal myocytes and Schwann-like cells; therefore, they are a promising candidate for cell therapies for neuromuscular disease. Motor neurons (MNs), which regulate spontaneous behavior, are affected by a wide range of MN diseases (MNDs) for which there are no effective remedies. We investigated the differentiation potential of MN-like cells derived from T-MSCs (T-MSC-MNCs) for application to therapy of MNDs. After the process of MN differentiation, the expression of MN-related markers, including Islet 1, HB9/HLXB9 (HB9), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), was increased when compared with undifferentiated T-MSCs. The secretion of acetylcholine to the conditioned medium was significantly increased after MN differentiation. We cocultured T-MSC-MNCs and human skeletal muscle cells, and confirmed the presence of the acetylcholine receptor clusters, which demonstrated the formation of neuromuscular junctions. The potential functional improvements afforded by these T-MSC-MNCs could be useful in the treatment of MNDs caused by genetic mutation, viral infection, or environmental problems.

Application of differentiated human tonsil-derived stem cells to trembler-J mice.

INTRODUCTION: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into various cell types. METHODS: In this study we investigated the potential of human tonsil-derived MSCs (T-MSCs) for neuromuscular regeneration in trembler-J (Tr-J) mice, a model for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A). RESULTS: T-MSCs differentiated toward skeletal myocytes with increased expression of skeletal muscle-related markers (including troponin I type 1, and myogenin), and the formation of myotubes in vitro. In-situ transplantation of T-MSC-derived myocytes (T-MSC myocytes) into the gastrocnemius muscle in Tr-J mice enhanced motor function, with recovery of compound muscle action potential amplitudes. Morphology of the sciatic nerve and skeletal muscle recovered without the formation of teratomas, and the expression levels of nerve growth factor and glial-cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor were increased significantly in T-MSC myocytes compared with T-MSCs in vitro. DISCUSSION: Transplantation of T-MSC myocytes could enable neuromuscular regeneration in patients with CMT1A. Muscle Nerve 57: 478-486, 2018.

Differentiation of Human Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Schwann-Like Cells Improves Neuromuscular Function in a Mouse Model of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Type 1A.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) is the most common inherited motor and sensory neuropathy, and is caused by duplication of PMP22, alterations of which are a characteristic feature of demyelination. The clinical phenotype of CMT1A is determined by the degree of axonal loss, and patients suffer from progressive muscle weakness and impaired sensation. Therefore, we investigated the potential of Schwann-like cells differentiated from human tonsil-derived stem cells (T-MSCs) for use in neuromuscular regeneration in trembler-J (Tr-J) mice, a model of CMT1A. After differentiation, we confirmed the increased expression of Schwann cell (SC) markers, including glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR), S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B), glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which suggests the differentiation of T-MSCs into SCs (T-MSC-SCs). To test their functional efficiency, the T-MSC-SCs were transplanted into the caudal thigh muscle of Tr-J mice. Recipients' improved locomotive activity on a rotarod test, and their sciatic function index, which suggests that transplanted T-MSC-SCs ameliorated demyelination and atrophy of nerve and muscle in Tr-J mice. Histological and molecular analyses showed the possibility of in situ remyelination by T-MSC-SCs transplantation. These findings demonstrate that the transplantation of heterologous T-MSC-SCs induced neuromuscular regeneration in mice and suggest they could be useful for the therapeutic treatment of patients with CMT1A disease.

Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentiate into a Schwann Cell Phenotype and Promote Peripheral Nerve Regeneration.

Schwann cells (SCs), which produce neurotropic factors and adhesive molecules, have been reported previously to contribute to structural support and guidance during axonal regeneration; therefore, they are potentially a crucial target in the restoration of injured nervous tissues. Autologous SC transplantation has been performed and has shown promising clinical results for treating nerve injuries and donor site morbidity, and insufficient production of the cells have been considered as a major issue. Here, we performed differentiation of tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs) into SC-like cells (T-MSC-SCs), to evaluate T-MSC-SCs as an alternative to SCs. Using SC markers such as CAD19, GFAP, MBP, NGFR, S100B, and KROX20 during quantitative real-time PCR we detected the upregulation of NGFR, S100B, and KROX20 and the downregulation of CAD19 and MBP at the fully differentiated stage. Furthermore, we found myelination of axons when differentiated SCs were cocultured with mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons. The application of T-MSC-SCs to a mouse model of sciatic nerve injury produced marked improvements in gait and promoted regeneration of damaged nerves. Thus, the transplantation of human T-MSCs might be suitable for assisting in peripheral nerve regeneration.

Overexpression of mutant HSP27 causes axonal neuropathy in mice.

BACKGROUND: Mutations in heat shock 27 kDa protein 1 (HSP27 or HSPB1) cause distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN) or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2 F (CMT2F) according to unknown factors. Mutant HSP27 proteins affect axonal transport by reducing acetylated tubulin. RESULTS: We generated a transgenic mouse model overexpressing HSP27-S135F mutant protein driven by Cytomegalovirus (CMV) immediate early promoter. The mouse phenotype was similar to dHMN patients in that they exhibit motor neuropathy. To determine the phenotypic aberration of transgenic mice, behavior test, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electrophysiological study, and pathology were performed. Rotarod test showed that founder mice exhibited lowered motor performance. MRI also revealed marked fatty infiltration in the anterior and posterior compartments at calf level. Electrophysiologically, compound muscle action potential (CMAP) but not motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) was reduced in the transgenic mice. Toluidine staining with semi-thin section of sciatic nerve showed the ratio of large myelinated axon fiber was reduced, which might cause reduced locomotion in the transgenic mice. Electron microscopy also revealed abundant aberrant myelination. Immunohistochemically, neuronal dysfunctions included elevated level of phosphorylated neurofilament and reduced level of acetylated tubulin in the sural nerve of transgenic mice. There was no additional phenotype besides motor neuronal defects. CONCLUSIONS: Overexpression of HSP27-S135F protein causes peripheral neuropathy. The mouse model can be applied to future development of therapeutic strategies for dHMN or CMT2F.

A novel homozygous MPV17 mutation in two families with axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy.

BACKGROUND: Mutations in MPV17 cause the autosomal recessive disorder mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome 6 (MTDPS6), also called Navajo neurohepatopathy (NNH). Clinical features of MTDPS6 is infantile onset of progressive liver failure with seldom development of progressive neurologic involvement. METHODS: Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to isolate the causative gene of two unrelated neuropathy patients (9 and 13 years of age) with onset of the syndrome. Clinical assessments and biochemical analysis were performed. RESULTS: A novel homozygous mutation (p.R41Q) in MPV17 was found by WES in both patients. Both showed axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy without liver and brain involvement, which is neurophysiologically similar to axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). A distal sural nerve biopsy showed an almost complete loss of the large and medium-sized myelinated fibers compatible with axonal neuropathy. An in vitro assay using mouse motor neuronal cells demonstrated that the abrogation of MPV17 significantly affected cell integrity. In addition, the expression of the mutant protein affected cell proliferation. These results imply that both the loss of normal function of MPV17 and the gain of detrimental effects of the mutant protein might affect neuronal function. CONCLUSION: We report a novel homozygous mutation in MPV17 from two unrelated patients harboring axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy without hepatoencephalopathy. This report expands the clinical spectrum of diseases caused by mutations of MPV17, and we recommend MPV17 gene screening for axonal peripheral neuropathies.

Distinct patterns of promoter CpG island methylation of breast cancer subtypes are associated with stem cell phenotypes.

Although DNA methylation profiles in breast cancer have been connected to breast cancer molecular subtype, there have been no studies of the association of DNA methylation with stem cell phenotype. This study was designed to evaluate the promoter CpG island methylation of 15 genes in relation to breast cancer subtype, and to investigate whether the patterns of CpG island methylation in each subtype are associated with their cancer stem cell phenotype represented by CD44+/CD24- and ALDH1 expression. We performed MethyLight analysis of the methylation status of 15 promoter CpG island loci involved in breast cancer progression (APC, DLEC1, GRIN2B, GSTP1, HOXA1, HOXA10, IGF2, MT1G, RARB, RASSF1A, RUNX3, SCGB3A1, SFRP1, SFRP4, and TMEFF2) and determined cancer stem cell phenotype by CD44/CD24 and ALDH1 immunohistochemistry in 36 luminal A, 33 luminal B, 30 luminal-HER2, 40 HER2 enriched, and 40 basal-like subtypes of breast cancer. The number of CpG island loci methylated differed significantly between subtypes, and was highest in the luminal-HER2 subtype and lowest in the basal-like subtype. Methylation frequencies and levels in 12 of the 15 genes differed significantly between subtypes, and the basal-like subtype had significantly lower methylation frequencies and levels in nine of the genes than the other subtypes. CD44+/CD24- and ALDH1+ putative stem cell populations were most enriched in the basal-like subtype. Methylation of promoter CpG islands was significantly lower in CD44+/CD24-cell (+) tumors than in CD44+/CD24-cell (-) tumors, even within the basal-like subtype. ALDH1 (+) tumors were also less methylated than ALDH1 (-) tumors. Our findings showed that promoter CpG island methylation was different in relation to breast cancer subtype and stem cell phenotype of tumor, suggesting that breast cancers have distinct patterns of CpG island methylation according to molecular subtypes and these are associated with different stem cell phenotypes of the tumor.

Pharmacological unmasking microarray approach-based discovery of novel DNA methylation markers for hepatocellular carcinoma.

DNA methylation is one of the main epigenetic mechanisms and hypermethylation of CpG islands at tumor suppressor genes switches off these genes. To find novel DNA methylation markers in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we performed pharmacological unmasking (treatment with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine or trichostatin A) followed by microarray analysis in HCC cell lines. Of the 239 promoter CpG island loci hypermethylated in HCC cell lines (as revealed by methylation-specific PCR), 221 loci were found to be hypermethylated in HCC or nonneoplastic liver tissues. Thirty-three loci showed a 20% higher methylation frequency in tumors than in adjacent nonneoplastic tissues. Correlation of individual cancer-related methylation markers with clinicopathological features of HCC patients (n = 95) revealed that the number of hypermethylated genes in HCC tumors was higher in older than in younger patients. Univariate and multivariate survival analysis revealed that the HIST1H2AE methylation status is closely correlated with the patient's overall survival (P = 0.022 and P = 0.010, respectively). In conclusion, we identified 221 novel DNA methylation markers for HCC. One promising prognostic marker, HIST1H2AE, should be further validated in the prognostication of HCC patients.

LC-MS/MS-based serum proteomics reveals a distinctive signature in a rheumatoid arthritis mouse model after treatment with mesenchymal stem cells.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to be able to modulate immune responses, possess tissue-protective properties, and exhibit healing capacities with therapeutic potential for various diseases. The ability of MSCs to secrete various cytokines and growth factors provides new insights into autoimmune-diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects the lining of synovial joints, causing stiffness, pain, inflammation, and joint erosion. In recent years, MSCs-based therapies have been widely proposed as promising therapies in the treatment of RA. However, the mechanism involved in disease-specific therapeutic effects of MSCs on RA remains unclear. To clarify the mechanism involved in effects of MSCs on RA, proteomic profiling was performed using an RA mouse model before and after treatment with MSCs. In this study, treatment efficacy of human umbilical cord blood-mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) was confirmed using a type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model. Results of measuring incidence rates of arthritis and clinical arthritis index (CAI) revealed that mice administrated with hUCB-MSCs had a significant reduction in arthritis severity. Proteins that might affect disease progression and therapeutic efficacy of hUCB-MSC were identified through LC-MS/MS analysis using serum samples. In addition, L-1000 analysis was performed for hUCB-MSC culture medium. To analysis data obtained from LC-MS/MS and L-1000, tools such as ExDEGA, MEV, and DAVID GO were used. Results showed that various factors secreted from hUCB-MSCs might play roles in therapeutic effects of MSCs on RA, with platelet activation possibly playing a pivotal role. Results of this study also suggest that SERPINE1 and THBS1 among substances secreted by hUCB-MSC might be key factors that can inhibit platelet activation. This paper is expected to improve our understanding of mechanisms involved in treatment effects of stem cells on rheumatoid arthritis.

Immunomodulatory Effect of Epidermal Growth Factor Secreted by Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Atopic Dermatitis.

Background and Objectives: Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are emerging as a treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects a large number of people across the world. Treatment of AD using human umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) has recently been studied. However, the mechanism underlying their effect needs to be studied continuously. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) secreted by hUCB-MSCs on AD. Methods and Results: To explore the mechanism involved in the therapeutic effect of MSCs for AD, a secretome array was performed using culture medium of hUCB-MSCs. Among the list of genes common for epithelium development and skin diseases, we focused on the function of EGF. To elucidate the effect of EGF secreted by hUCB-MSCs, EGF was downregulated in hUCB-MSCs using EGF-targeting small interfering RNA. These cells were then co-cultured with keratinocytes, Th2 cells, and mast cells. Depletion of EGF disrupted immunomodulatory effects of hUCB-MSCs on these AD-related inflammatory cells. In a Dermatophagoides farinae-induced AD mouse model, subcutaneous injection of hUCB-MSCs ameliorated gross scoring, histopathologic damage, and mast cell infiltration. It also significantly reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-4, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), and IL-22, as well as IgE levels. These therapeutic effects were significantly attenuated at all evaluation points in mice injected with EGF-depleted hUCB-MSCs. Conclusions: EGF secreted by hUCB-MSCs can improve AD by regulating inflammatory responses of keratinocytes, Th2 cells, and mast cells.

Pimecrolimus interferes the therapeutic efficacy of human mesenchymal stem cells in atopic dermatitis by regulating NFAT-COX2 signaling.

BACKGROUND: Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) therapy has recently been considered a promising treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) due to their immunomodulation and tissue regeneration ability. In our previous studies, we demonstrated that hMSCs alleviate allergic inflammation in murine AD model by inhibiting the activation of mast cells and B cells. Also our phase I/IIa clinical trial showed clinical efficacy and safety of hMSCs in moderate-to-severe adult AD patients. However, hMSCs therapy against atopic dermatitis have had poor results in clinical field. Therefore, we investigated the reason behind this result. We hypothesized that drug-cell interaction could interfere with the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells, and investigated whether coadministration with pimecrolimus, one of the topical calcineurin inhibitors, could influence the therapeutic potential of human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) in AD. METHODS: hUCB-MSCs were subcutaneously injected to AD-induced mice with or without pimecrolimus topical application. To examine whether pimecrolimus influenced the immunomodulatory activity of hUCB-MSCs, hUCB-MSCs were treated with pimecrolimus. RESULTS: Pimecrolimus disturbed the therapeutic effect of hUCB-MSCs when they were co-administered in murine AD model. Moreover, the inhibitory functions of hUCB-MSCs against type 2 helper T (Th2) cell differentiation and mast cell activation were also deteriorated by pimecrolimus treatment. Interestingly, we found that pimecrolimus decreased the production of PGE2, one of the most critical immunomodulatory factors in hUCB-MSCs. And we demonstrated that pimecrolimus downregulated COX2-PGE2 axis by inhibiting nuclear translocation of NFAT3. CONCLUSIONS: Coadministration of pimecrolimus with hMSCs could interfere with the therapeutic efficacy of hMSCs in atopic dermatitis, and this is the first study that figured out the interaction of hMSCs with other drugs in cell therapy of atopic dermatitis. Therefore, this study might give rise to improvement of the clinical application of hMSCs therapy and facilitate the widespread application of hMSCs in clinical field.

A novel histone deacetylase 6 inhibitor improves myelination of Schwann cells in a model of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is the most common hereditary peripheral neuropathy. CMT type 1A (CMT1A) accounts for approximately 50% of CMT patients and is linked to PMP22 gene duplication. Histone deacetylase-6 (HDAC6) has pleiotropic effects, such as regulating lipid homeostasis and cellular stress. Although HDAC6 has been regarded as a promising drug target for neurodegenerative diseases, its inhibition has not yet been tested in CMT1A. Here we have tested the therapeutic potential of CKD-504, a clinical stage HDAC6 inhibitor, in a mouse model of CMT1A EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: The potency and selectivity of CKD-504 was evaluated, using a HDAC enzyme panel assay and western blots. The therapeutic potential of CKD-504 was evaluated using behavioural testing and electrophysiological assessments in the C22 mouse model of CMT1A. PMP22 protein expression and aggregation were analysed in mesenchymal stem cell-derived Schwann cells from CMT1A patients and sciatic nerves from C22 mice. KEY RESULTS: The HDAC6 inhibitor, CKD-504, modulated molecular chaperon proteins such as HSP90 and HSP70, which are involved in the folding/refolding of proteins such as PMP22. CKD-504 treatment restored myelination in both mesenchymal stem cell-derived Schwann cells from CMT1A patients and sciatic nerves of C22 mice and improved the axonal integrity of the sciatic nerve, leading to behavioural, electrophysiological, and histological improvements in C22 mice. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: A novel HDAC6 inhibitor, CKD-504, has potent therapeutic efficacy for CMT1A.

The vitamin D analogue paricalcitol attenuates hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury through down-regulation of Toll-like receptor 4 signaling in rats.

INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have revealed that vitamin D and its synthetic analogues have a protective effect on experimental ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) models in several organs, but little is known about its effect on the liver. The aim of this study was to evaluate the beneficial effects of vitamin D in a model of liver I/R in rats, focusing on Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 signaling, which has been shown to be involved in I/R injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups: Saline + Sham, Saline + I/R, Paricalcitol + Sham, and Paricalcitol + I/R. A synthetic vitamin D2 analogue, paricalcitol, was intraperitoneally injected 24 h prior to surgery. The animals were subjected to 60 min of partial warm ischemia (70%), followed by reperfusion for 6 h on the same day. The ischemic lobe of the liver and blood were collected for molecular biochemical analyses. RESULTS: Liver damage following I/R was diminished by pretreatment with paricalcitol. Pretreatment with paricalcitol decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-1ß, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), in both plasma and liver tissue. In addition, pretreatment with paricalcitol markedly down-regulated the expression of TLR4, HMGB1, TNF-α and NF-κB. CONCLUSIONS: The vitamin D analogue paricalcitol attenuates hepatic I/R injury through down-regulation of the TLR4 signaling pathway and might be considered to be a potential nutritional therapeutic agent against I/R injury in the liver.

Autophagy induction in the skeletal myogenic differentiation of human tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are capable of self-renewal and differentiation and are thus a valuable source for the replacement of diseased or damaged organs. Previously, we reported that the tonsils can be an excellent reservoir of MSCs for the regeneration of skeletal muscle (SKM) damage. However, the mechanisms involved in the differentiation from tonsil-derived MSCs (T-MSCs) to myocytes via myoblasts remain unclear. To clarify these mechanisms, we analyzed gene expression profiles of T-MSCs during differentiation into myocytes compared with human skeletal muscle cells (hSKMCs). Total RNA was extracted from T-MSCs, T-MSC-derived myoblasts and myocytes, and hSKMCs and was subjected to analysis using a microarray. Microarray analysis of the three phases of myogenic differentiation identified candidate genes associated with myogenic differentiation. The expression pattern of undifferentiated T-MSCs was distinguishable from the myogenic differentiated T-MSCs and hSKMCs. In particular, we selected FNBP1L, which among the upregulated genes is essential for antibacterial autophagy, since autophagy is related to SKM metabolism and myogenesis. T-MSCs differentiated toward myoblasts and skeletal myocytes sequentially, as evidenced by increased expression of autophagy-related markers (including Beclin-1, LC3B and Atg5) and decreased expression of Bcl-2. Furthermore, we reconfirmed that autophagy has an effect on the mechanism of skeletal myogenic differentiation derived from T-MSCs by treatment with 5-azacytidine and bafilomycin A1. These data suggest that the transcriptome of the T-MSC-derived myocytes is similar to that of hSKMCs, and that autophagy has an important role in the mechanism of myogenic differentiation of T-MSCs.

Chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells isolated from patients in late adulthood: the optimal conditions of growth factors.

There is a controversy about the capacity of the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from aged individuals to proliferate and differentiate into cartilage. The purpose of this study was to investigate the optimal condition to culture human MSCs from the aged individuals (>50 years) for cartilage tissue engineering. We tested the hypothesis that effective proliferation and chondrogenesis can be achieved with human MSCs from aged individuals under appropriate conditions. To investigate the best condition for proliferation, MSCs were cultured in medium containing four concentrations subsets (0, 0.05, 0.5, 5 ng/mL) of recombinant human TGF-beta2 and FGF-2, either with or without fetal calf serum. The cell numbers were counted 0, 1, 3, and 7 days after growth factors were given. For the induction of chondrogenesis in 3-dimensional (3-D) culture, cells were cultured in pellets with chondrogenic medium containing combinations of various growth factors. After 4 weeks of culture, the pellets were fixed and evaluated with Safranin-O staining for proteoglycan and immunohistochemical staining for type II collagen. RT-PCR was also performed for the mRNAs of type I collagen, type II collagen, and cartilage oligomeric protein (COMP). In a monolayer culture, TGF-beta2 in concentrations of 0.5 and 5 ng/mL caused significant reduction in cell number irrespective of the presence of serum. FGF-2 of 5 ng/mL most effectively increased cell number even in the absence of serum. In a pellet culture, remarkable chondrocyte-like differentiation of cells was induced around the peripheral areas of a pellet with 5 ng/mL of TGF-beta2, accompanied by increased proteoglycan and type II collagen production. The addition of 100 ng/mL of IGF-I induced notable increase in proteoglycan contents. The results of RT-PCR mirrored those of histological studies. This study shows that an effective proliferation and chondrogenesis may be obtained with proper combinations of growth factors and mesenchymal stem cells from aged individuals.

Myogenic differentiation potential of human tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells and their potential for use to promote skeletal muscle regeneration.

Stem cells are regarded as an important source of cells which may be used to promote the regeneration of skeletal muscle (SKM) which has been damaged due to defects in the organization of muscle tissue caused by congenital diseases, trauma or tumor removal. In particular, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which require less invasive harvesting techniques, represent a valuable source of cells for stem cell therapy. In the present study, we demonstrated that human tonsil-derived MSCs (T-MSCs) may differentiate into myogenic cells in vitro and that the transplantation of myoblasts and myocytes generated from human T-MSCs mediates the recovery of muscle function in vivo. In order to induce myogenic differentiation, the T-MSC-derived spheres were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium/nutrient mixture F-12 (DMEM/F­12) supplemented with 1 ng/ml transforming growth factor-ß, non-essential amino acids and insulin­transferrin-selenium for 4 days followed by culture in myogenic induction medium [low-glucose DMEM containing 2% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 10 ng/ml insulin­like growth factor 1 (IGF1)] for 14 days. The T-MSCs sequentially differentiated into myoblasts and skeletal myocytes, as evidenced by the increased expression of skeletal myogenesis-related markers [including α-actinin, troponin I type 1 (TNNI1) and myogenin] and the formation of myotubes in vitro. The in situ transplantation of T-MSCs into mice with a partial myectomy of the right gastrocnemius muscle enhanced muscle function, as demonstrated by gait assessment (footprint analysis), and restored the shape of SKM without forming teratomas. Thus, T-MSCs may differentiate into myogenic cells and effectively regenerate SKM following injury. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of T-MSCs to promote SKM regeneration following injury.

Heme oxygenase-1-mediated partial cytoprotective effect by NO on cadmium-induced cytotoxicity in C6 rat glioma cells.

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a 32-kDa stress induced enzyme that degrades heme to carbon monoxide (CO) and biliverdin. By employing RT-PCR and Western blotting techniques, we have examined the HO-1 induction in C6 glioma cells that were treated with cadmium chloride (CdCl(2)) or spermine NONOate (SPER/NO). By employing a cell viability assay, we have also examined the cytoprotective effect of HO-1 induction against the cytotoxicity caused by toxic dose of CdCl(2). In C6 glioma cells exposed to CdCl(2), expression of HO-1 (mRNA and protein) was increased in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Nitric oxide (NO) generated from SPER/NO very rapidly increased HO-1 mRNA expression in the C6 glioma cells. The induction of HO-1 by SPER/NO protected the cells from toxic dose of CdCl(2). The up-regulation of HO-1 mRNA expression by CdCl(2) was inhibited by a pre-incubation of the cells with actinomycin D, a potent inhibitor of mRNA transcription. Upon the inhibition of elevated HO-1 mRNA expression by the use of zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP), an inhibitor of HO activity, the change of HO-1 mRNA expression by ZnPP was not observed. Thus, the glial cell may respond to CdCl(2) toxicity by enhancing the HO-1 expression in its effort to minimize the CdCl(2)-derived oxidative damage, and to survive. In the glioma cells, when the HO-1 expression was elevated by a prior incubation with SPER/NO, the cell viability against the cytotoxicity of CdCl(2) was significantly increased. When the results of our experiment are taken together, we discovered that NO provided a rapid enhancement of HO-1 expression, and it provided a protective effect against CdCl(2)-derived oxidative injury in the C6 rat glioma cells.

Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Kidney Tubular Epithelial Cells Induced by Globotriaosylsphingosine and Globotriaosylceramide.

Fabry disease is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of alpha-galactosidase A (α-gal A), which results in the deposition of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in the vascular endothelium. Globotriaosylsphingosine (lyso-Gb3), a deacylated Gb3, is also increased in the plasma of patients with Fabry disease. Renal fibrosis is a key feature of advanced Fabry disease patients. Therefore, we evaluated the association of Gb3 and lyso-Gb3 accumulation and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) on tubular epithelial cells of the kidney. In HK2 cells, exogenous treatments of Gb3 and lyso-Gb3 increased the expression of TGF-ß, EMT markers (N-cadherin and α-SMA), and phosphorylation of PI3K/AKT, and decreased the expression of E-cadherin. Lyso-Gb3, rather than Gb3, strongly induced EMT in HK2 cells. In the mouse renal mesangial cell line, SV40 MES 13 cells, Gb3 strongly induced phenotype changes. The EMT induced by Gb3 was inhibited by enzyme α-gal A treatment, but EMT induced by lyso-Gb3 was not abrogated by enzyme treatment. However, TGF-ß receptor inhibitor (TRI, SB525334) inhibited the activation of TGF-ß and EMT markers in HK2 cells with Gb3 and lyso-Gb3 treatments. This study suggested that increased plasma lyso-Gb3 has a crucial role in the development of renal fibrosis through the cell-specific induction of the EMT in Fabry disease, and that TRI treatment, alongside enzyme replacement therapy, could be a potential therapeutic option for patients with Fabry disease.

Substrate-specific gene expression profiles in different kidney cell types are associated with Fabry disease.

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding the α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) lysosomal enzyme, which results in globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) storage in vascular endothelial cells and different cell types throughout the body. Involvement of the kidney and heart is life threatening, and fibrosis of these organs is considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of Fabry disease. An increased concentration of deacylated Gb3 (lyso­Gb3) in the plasma of symptomatic patients has also been suggested as a causative molecular event. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in renal fibrosis in Fabry disease, the present analyzed the changes in global gene expression prior to and following Gb3 or lyso­Gb3 treatment in two types of kidney cell lines, human proximal renal tubular epithelial (HK­2) and mouse renal glomerular mesangial (SV40 MES 13) cells. Gb3 and lyso­Gb3 treatment regulated the expression of 199 and 328 genes in each cell type, demonstrating a >2.0­fold change. The majority of the biological functions of the regulated genes were associated with fibrogenesis or epithelial­mesenchymal transition (EMT). The gene expression patterns of sphingolipid­treated HK­2 cells were distinguishable from the patterns in the SV40 MES 13 cells. Several genes associated with the EMT were selected and evaluated further in kidney cells and in Fabry mouse kidney tissues. In the SV40 MES 13 cells, the DLL1, F8, and HOXA11 genes were downregulated, and FOXP2 was upregulated by treatment with Gb3 or lyso­Gb3. In the HK­2 cells, the ADAMTS6, BEST1, IL4, and MYH11 genes were upregulated. Upregulation of the FOXP2, COL15A1, IL4, and MYH11 genes was also observed in the Fabry mouse kidney tissues. The gene expression profiles in kidney cells following the addition of Gb3 or lyso­Gb3 revealed substrate­specific and cell­specific patterns. These findings suggested that Gb3 and lyso­Gb3 lead to renal fibrosis in Fabry disease through different biochemical modulations.