Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research ›› 2010, Vol. 14 ›› Issue (45): 8507-8511.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2010.45.035

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Induced differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into hepatocyte-like cells

Chen Jun1, Liu Yu-xia1, Jiang Wen-hua2   

  1. 1 Jilin Province Institute of Cancer Research, Changchun  130012, Jilin Province, China; 2 Department of Histology and Embryology, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun  130021, Jilin Province, China
  • Online:2010-11-05 Published:2010-11-05
  • Contact: Jiang Wen-hua, Doctor, Associate professor, Department of Histology and Embryology, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China jiangwenhua468@163.com
  • About author:Chen Jun, Professor, Doctoral supervisor, Jilin Province Institute of Cancer Research, Changchun 130012, Jilin Province, China yuhongnew@yahoo.com.cn
  • Supported by:

    the Science and Technology Development Project of Jilin Province, No. 200905200*;The Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province , No.201015197*

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND: At present, many experiments have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells or hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo. This makes it possible for MSCs in treatment of liver diseases. 
OBJECTIVE: To conclude and analyze the methods, mechanism and existing problems of MSCs differentiation into hepatocyte-like cells. 
METHODS: We searched PubMed Database using computer for articles published from January 2000 to December 2009. The key words were “mesenchymal stem cells, hepatocyte, differentiation”. Vip Database was retrieved for articles published from January 2000 to December 2009. The key words were “mesenchymal stem cells, hepatocyte, induced differentiation”. Articles concerning induced differentiation of MSCs into hepatocytes, and those published recently or in authorized journals were included.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 146 articles addressing induced differentiation of MSCs into hepatocytes were collected, and 31 articles were included according to inclusion criteria. MSCs can be induced to differentiate into hepatocytes in vitro and under hepatic pathological condition. Its action mechanism is that cytokines via specific cell signaling pathway affected cell nucleus, started or closed corresponding gene, expressed specific protein, and induced the differentiation of MSCs into hepatocytes under suitable cytokine combination. With the development of study, this makes it possible for MSCs in treatment of liver diseases, but still requires further improvement.

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