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04 June 2013, Volume 17 Issue 23 Previous Issue    Next Issue

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Sodium channel blockers inhibit the differentiation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into cardiac-like cells Hao Chun-yuan, Ma Ai-qun, Wang Ting-zhong, Liu Rui 2013, 17 (23):  4181-4188.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.001 Abstract ( 448 )   PDF (987KB) ( 676 )   Save BACKGROUND: The studies have found that the tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium channels exist in various human and animal mesenchymal stem cells, but whether sodium channels may influence the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into myocardial cells has not been confirmed.    OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin on the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into cardiac-like cells. METHODS: Rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated with Percoll’s density gradient centrifugation and differential adhesion method, and then the adult rat myocardial cells were isolated by aorta retrograde collagenase perfusion; rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells labeled with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole were co-cultured with adult rat myocardial cells, and induced with 0, 10 and 100 μmol/L tetrodotoxin; and then the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into cardiac-like cells was observed at 1 week after induction. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Immunofluorescence staining showed that the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells could express cardiac-specific protein desmin and myosin after bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells co-cultured with myocardial cells for 1 week, while 10 and 100 μmol/L tetrodotoxin could inhibit the expressions of desmin and myosin in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. The results indicate that sodium channel may play a pivotal role in the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into cardiac-like cells. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Density gradient centrifugation for isolation of umbilical cord blood stem cells: Screening of separation medium Guo Ji-qiang, Liu Ai-bing, Wang Dong-ping, Wang Li-ming 2013, 17 (23):  4189-4195.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.002 Abstract ( 631 )   PDF (509KB) ( 887 )   Save BACKGROUND: The purpose for isolating stem cells from the cord blood is to obtain the mononuclear cell populations with the stem cells as the major group, and density gradient centrifugation is one of the simplest and most effective ways. Polysucrose diatrizoate is the most commonly used separation medium for density gradient centrifugation, but there is no in-depth research on which method can obtain more stem cells.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the optimal density of separation medium for isolating human umbilical cord blood stem cells using density gradient centrifugation method, and to establish the isolation method of stem cells for clinical application. METHODS: Umbilical cord blood was separated with two-step method. Firstly, hydroxyethyl starch was used to sediment cord blood erythrocyte, and the suspension was obtained, then the separation media with three kinds of concentrations (1.073 0±0.000 1), (1.075 0±0.000 1) and (1.077 0±0.000 1) g/mL was used to isolate the suspension and the mononuclear cells were obtained. The harvest rate and the survival rate of the cells were counted. Their surface markers of mononuclear cells were identified with flow cytometry; histogram or scatter plot of each subset was plotted to analyze their proportions and absolute numbers of sub-cell populations. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The separation medium with the concentration of (1.073 0±0.000 1) g/mL could obtain the mesenchymal stem cell populations with the largest proportion, which was the optimal density for isolating the mesenchymal stem cells. The separation medium with the concentration of (1.075 0± 0.000 1) g/mL could obtain the hemopoietic stem cell populations with the larger proportion, which was the optimal density for isolating the hemopoietic stem cells. The separation medium with the concentration of (1.077 0±0.000 1) g/mL could obtain the largest number of stem cells, but the obtained mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells had the lowest proportion. Application of two-step method for isolating stem cells and the establishment of strict laboratory conditions and standards are the optimal programs for isolating the human umbilical cord blood stem cells using density gradient centrifugation method. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Chondrogenic differentiation of co-cultured human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells Zheng Peng-fei, Chen Lei, Dong Zhan, Jiang Li, Ju Li, Wang Ru-fa, Lou Yue 2013, 17 (23):  4196-4203.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.003 Abstract ( 341 )   PDF (626KB) ( 496 )   Save BACKGROUND: Human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells can be induced through the co-culture to differentiate into other cells; however, it is difficult to control the proportions of two kinds of cells for maximizing the efficiency of obtaining target cells. OBJECTIVE: To investigate chondrogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells by co-culture with rabbit chondrocytes at different ratios. METHODS: Human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells were resuscitated and cultured, and identified by flow cytometry. Then human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells were co-cultured with rabbit chondrocytes at 2:1 or 3:1 ratio, and induced with insulin-like growth factor-1. After 14 days in co-culture, the cell RNA and protein were extracted, aggrecan mRNA and collagen type Ⅱ mRNA expression levels were detected by real-time quantitative-polymerase chain reaction, and aggrecan and collagen type Ⅱ protein expression levels were detected by western blot assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells were co-cultured with rabbit chondrocytes for 14 days, the aggrecan mRNA and collagen type 2 mRNA expression in the co-cultured cells was significantly higher than that in the cells only induced with insulin-like growth factor-1. Under the same ratio of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells and rabbit chondrocytes, insulin-like growth factor-1 increased the aggrecan and collagen type Ⅱ protein and mRNA expressions. A 3:1 co-culture ratio allowed the increment in the collagen type Ⅱ mRNA and protein expression, as well as aggrecan protein expression; while a 2:1 co-culture ratio upregulated aggrecan mRNA expression. Experimental findings indicate that, human chondrocytes can be successfully induced by co-culture of human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells and rabbit chondrocytes, and 3:1 co-culture ratio can obtain more chondrocytes. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells induced with different concentrations of dexamethasone in vitro Hong Jing-xin, Liu Jian, Li Lin-fang, Han Jun-ling 2013, 17 (23):  4204-4211.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.004 Abstract ( 472 )   PDF (635KB) ( 514 )   Save BACKGROUND: Under the combination effect of dexamethasone, vitamin C and β-glycerophosphate, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into osteoblasts. Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid hormone, and its concentration can affect the osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. OBJECTIVE: To explore the optimal concentrations of dexamethasone in the osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. METHODS: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from the normal full-term newborn umbilical cord by explant method. The passage 3 human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were used for routine cell culture and induced differentiation experiments. The expression of surface markers of stem cells was detected with flow cytomerey, and the human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were identified by osteogenic differentiation and adipogenic differentiation. The changes of cell morphology were observed under the inverted phase contrast microscope in the process of osteogenic differentiation. The induced medium for osteogenic differentiation containing 1×10-8 mol/L, 5×10-8 mol/L and 1×10-7 mol/L dexamethasone was used for the osteogenic induction of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. Tetracycline hydrochloride fluorescence and Von Kossa staining were applied to observe the formation of calcium nodules. Reverse transcriptase-PCR was used to detect the expression of osteopontin gene. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The form of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells separated by explant method was uniform, spindle and growing in parallel and vortex-like shape. The flow cytometry results showed that CD29, CD73 and CD90 were positive, and CD31, CD34 and HLA-DR were negative. Intracellular lipid droplets could be observed after adipogenic differentiation, and the formation size and quantity of calcium nodules were enhanced as the concentration of dexamethasone increased. The expression level of osteopontin gene could be seen in three concentrations group, and the expressions were enhanced with the increasing of dexamethasone concentration from reverse transcriptase-PCR results. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells can be effectively induced to differentiate into osteobalsts when the medium contains 1×10-7 mol/L dexamethasone. . Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Cardiac troponin I expression in human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells after 5-azacytidine induction in vitro Tang Xin, Wang Ni-ni, Yi Hai-bo, Wang Yan, Pang Tian-shu 2013, 17 (23):  4212-4215.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.005 Abstract ( 371 )   PDF (389KB) ( 343 )   Save BACKGROUND: Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells possess multi-differentiation potential. There are few studies describing whether human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells can be induced to differentiate into cardiomyocytes . OBJECTIVE: To investigate cardiac troponin I expression in human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells after 5-azacytidine induction in vitro. METHODS: Passage 2 human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were digested, centrifuged and deposited. Cell suspension was prepared and cell concentration was adjusted to be 2×107/L. Then cells were cultured for 24 hours after addition of various concentrations of 5-azacytidine (80, 40, 20, 10, 5, 2.5, 0 μmol/L). After removal of 5-azacytidine, cells were cultured for another 4 weeks. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After treatment with 5-azacytidine for 24 hours, some cells died in each group, and typical fusiform appearance turned into stick-like or column-like appearance, especially in the 40 and 80 μmol/L 5-azacytidine groups. Immunohistochemical staining results showed that cardiac troponin I expression was detected in human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 μmol/L 5-azacytidine groups after induction for 2 weeks, but it was not detected in the control and 2.5 μmol/L 5-azacytidine groups. Five high-fold fields were selected for cell counting. The number of cardiomyocytes was not significantly different between 80, 40, 20, 10 μmol/L 5-azacytidine groups, but it was significantly higher compared to that in the 5 μmol/L 5-azacytidine group. After 5-azacytidine treatment for 4 weeks, typical sarcomeres and cardiac atrium particles were observed in some human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. Such changes were not observed in the control group in which 5-azacytidine induction was not used. These findings suggest that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were induced to cardiomyocyte-like cells by 5-azacytidine. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Human placental mesenchymal stem cells promote angiogenesis Zhao Ji-dong, Miao Zong-ning, Qian Han-guang, Peng Wei, Si Zhi-ping 2013, 17 (23):  4216-4233.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.006 Abstract ( 461 )   PDF (550KB) ( 497 )   Save BACKGROUND: The blood supply in seed cells and material compounds is the important issue in the construction of tissue engineered bone tissue. Placental mesenchymal stem cells are the potential seed cells in tissue engineering research, and it is of significance to study its differentiation into vascular endothelial cells as well as promotion of angiogenesis.  OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of placental mesenchymal stem cells differentiating into vascular endothelial cells in vitro and promoting angiogenesis in vivo. METHODS: Human placental mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and cultured. After the cell surface antigens were identified, the placental mesenchymal stem cells were induced with vascular endothelial growth factor and human basic fibroblast growth factor to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells in vitro. Then immunofluorescence staining for endothelial-specific markers KDR and the von Will brand factor were used to characterize the cells after induction. Eight healthy adult New Zealand rabbits were prepared for 1.5-cm defect models in the middle segment of radius. Then the models were implanted with human placental mesenchymal stem cells/silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite while those implanted with silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite were taken as the controls. At weeks 4 and 12 after operation, gross observation, histological observation and X-ray examination of implanted bone were performed to evaluate bone defects healing and angiogenesis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The morphology of induced placental mesenchymal stem cells was obviously changed, showing cell body contraction and enhanced stereognosis. Immunofluorescence staining analysis showed a positivity for endothelial-specific markers KDR and the von Will brand factor. After the human placental mesenchymal stem cells were cultured with silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite compound, new bone formation was visible at 4 weeks, and lamellar bone formed, trabeculation and neovascularization were detected at 12 weeks after implantation. While scaffold materials degraded gradually and no neovascularization was observed in the control group. Experimental findings indicate that, placental mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into vascular endothelial cells in vitro, and combined transplantation with silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite can promote angiogenesis and repair bone defects. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Adipose-derived stem cells differentiate into vascular endothelial cells Liu Lin, Zhang Ya, Zhou Yun, Zhai Jing-mei, Cao Xu 2013, 17 (23):  4224-4231.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.007 Abstract ( 513 )   PDF (498KB) ( 798 )   Save BACKGROUND: Adipose-derived stem cells are regarded as the potential seed cells for tissue engineering due to abundance in vivo, rapid proliferation in vitro, and capacity of multi-directional differentiation. Accumulated evidence supports that adipose-derived stem cells can be induced to differentiate into endothelial cells and to promote angiogenesis. OBJECTIVE: To study the biological characteristics of vascular endothelial cells differentiated from rabbit adipose-derived stem cells cultured in vitro. METHODS: Adipose tissues were obtained from the epididymal fat pads of the rabbits. And adipose-derived stem cells were isolated from adipose tissues by collagenase digestion and cultured in vitro to passage 3. Vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor within endothelial cell growth medium were used to induce adipose-derived stem cells differentiation into endothelial-like cells. Cell morphology was observed and growth curves were drawn before and after induction. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze the morphology and type of adipose-derived stem cells and the differentiated cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Rabbit adipose-derived stem cells grew well, and passage 3 adipose-derived stem cells presented fibroblast-like growth. The growth curve was like “S” shape. No significant change in cell morphology was detected within passage 15. Vimentin was positive on passage 3 adipose-derived stem cells by indirect immunofluorescence methods. The positive CD44 expression and negative CD32 expression were detected in passage 3 adipose-derived stem cells by flow cytometric analysis. After induction, CD31 became positive while CD44 was negative. Paving stone-like cell appearance was seen under inverted microscope 21 days after induction. The differentiated cells were Factor VIII-related antigen positively stained with immunohistological method, and Weibel-Palade body was observed under a transmission electron microscope. Experimental findings indicate that, adipose-derived stem cells can be induced to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells in vitro, and it can offer the ideal seed cells for tissue engineered blood vessels. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Isolation, culture and osteogenic differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells from the abdominal cavity of rats Li Ling-hui, Ding Dao-fang, Gong Hao, Du Guo-qing, Song Yi, Deng Zhen, Zhan Hong-sheng 2013, 17 (23):  4232-4239.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.008 Abstract ( 260 )   PDF (529KB) ( 567 )   Save BACKGROUND: Adipose-derived stem cells could be obtained easily with rapid proliferation and multi-directional differentiation potential, so they are promising to be seed cells of tissue engineering instead of bone marrow stromal stem cells. However, the isolation and culture of adipose-derived stem cells still remain lots of difficulties. OBJECTIVE: To optimize the methods of isolation and culture of adipose-derived stem cells, and identify the ability of osteogenic differentiation. METHODS: The adipose tissues were obtained from the kidney, peri-uterus and abdominal cavity of one adult female rat weighing 200 g under sterile conditions. Adipose-derived stem cells were isolated by the method of collagenase digestion for several times and cultured with low-glucose medium. The morphologic changes and proliferation of adipose-derived stem cells were observed under inverted microscope. The passage 3 adipose-derived stem cells were cultured in osteogenic medium and then identified with alkaline phosphatase staining and alizarin red staining. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Adipose-derived stem cells were mainly spindle-shaped and proliferated quickly with whirlpool-shaped arrangement. After osteogenic induction for 10 days and 28 days, the results of alkaline phosphatase staining and alizarin red staining were both positive. Experimental findings indicate that, adipose-derived stem cells isolated from abdominal cavity of rat by the method of collagenase digestion for several times can easily be cultured and passaged in vitro, and allow stable passaging and differentiation into osteoblasts under certain induction conditions. The isolation and culture methods for the adipose-derived stem cells may offer more and better seed cells for tissue engineering. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Monitoring transplanted stem cells in rat Achilles tendon by in vivobioluminescent imaging Huang De-qing, Gary Balian 2013, 17 (23):  4240-4247.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.009 Abstract ( 357 )   PDF (524KB) ( 669 )   Save BACKGROUND: The mechanisms for the homing, migration, proliferation and differentiation of transplanted adipose tissue derived stem cells remain unclear. The in vivo bioluminescent imaging system is a newly developed technique for directly detecting the biological behaviors of transplanted cells in vivo.  OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the feasibility of using in vivo bioluminescent imaging system to monitor the genetically modified adipose tissue derived stem cells transplanted in Achilles tendon of rats. METHODS: Adipose tissue derived stem cells isolated from the abdominal cavity of Sprague-Dawley rat were transduced with an adenovirus containing the luciferase reporter gene (3×1010/L), to observe the influence of transfection on the adipose tissue derived stem cells. Subsequently, the transfected cells were implanted into Achilles tendon defects in rats. The in vivo bioluminescent imaging system was used at days 1, 4, 7 and 14 following transplantation to assess the luciferase expression. The cryosections of repaired Achilles tendon of rats were observed under fluorescence microscope at day 28 postoperatively. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: No influence on the morphology and proliferation of adipose tissue derived stem cells was observed after transducing in vitro (P > 0.05). On the repaired Achilles tendon, the luciferase gene expression detected with in vivo bioluminescent imaging system at days 1, 4, 7 and 14 was respectively (1.22±0.43)×106, (1.81±0.76)×106, (1.88±0.69)×106 and (0.89±0.26)×105 counts/s (n=6). Abundant adipose tissue derived stem cells with luciferase expression were also seen in tendon cryosections of this side under fluorescence microscope at day 28. The luciferase gene expression was not detected in the control side. Experimental findings demonstrate that the in vivo bioluminescent imaging system can successfully monitor the fluorogene modified adipose tissue derived stem cells that are implanted into the rat Achilles tendon, and adipose tissue derived stem cells are a potential seed cells in tendon tissue engineering. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation improveshematopoietic function of myelosuppression mice Yao Guan-ping, Yu Li-mei, Fan Zhen-hai, Fang Ning, Ren Fei, Luo Jiao, Zhang Xiao-yu, Wang Yu-ying, Liu Jin-wei 2013, 17 (23):  4248-4255.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.010 Abstract ( 423 )   PDF (819KB) ( 510 )   Save BACKGROUND: High-dose chemotherapy often results in severe bone marrow damage. Beside medicines, stem cells transplantation has also been as a strategy for the treatment of bone marrow damage. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation on the hematopoietic function of myelosuppression mice induced by cisplatin. METHODS: Human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells were cultured in vitro. The female Imprinting Control Region mice were divided into three groups. Excepted for the mice in the blank group, the mice in the other groups were intraperitoneal injected with cisplatin to make the myelosuppression Imprinting Control Region mice, then the 3.0×105/g human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells were injected into the mice in the human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group through the caudal vein, and PBS solution in the same dose was injected in the mice of blank group and model group. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: On day 7, the body weight of Imprinting Control Region mice was reduced after administrated with cisplatin for 7 days, there was no significant difference between model group and human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group. The number of white blood cells, lymphocytes,mononuclear cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet of peripheral blood in the model group were significantly lower than those in the blank group (P < 0.05), then the indexes above began to recover on day 21 after cisplatin treatment. The recovery of the indexes above of the peripheral blood in the human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group was 7 days earlier than that in the model group, and the indexes above were recovered to normal level at 21 days; compared with blank group, the number of white blood cells and platelet in the human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group was transiently increased at 1-2 days before transplantation and 2 days after transplantation. At 24 days after transplantation, the number of bone marrow karyocytes in human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group was significantly higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05). Bone marrow histopathological testing results showed that the mice femur bone marrow organizational structure in the human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group was significantly improved. Compared with blank group, the number of bone marrow nucleated cells, especially megakaryocytes, was higher in human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation group, and at 2 weeks after human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation, many mouse anti-human nuclei monoclonal antibody-FITC positive cells were colonized in myeloid tissue. These results showed that human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells transplantation can remarkably ameliorate hematopoietic function in cisplatin induced myelosuppression mice. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Transplantation of neuron-like cells from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of spinal cord injury Gao Ping, Sun Zhan-sheng, Wang Bo-min, Li Lian-xin, Wang Fu, Mu Le-ming 2013, 17 (23):  4256-4263.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.011 Abstract ( 326 )   PDF (988KB) ( 797 )   Save BACKGROUND: The therapeutic effects of transplantation of neuron-like cells from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of spinal cord injury have been confirmed. Howver, the efficiency differences among different methods of inducing neuron-like cell differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: After behavioral observation and biochemical index measurements of spinal cord injury rat models, the curative effects of transplantation of neuron-like cells induced by different methods from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of spinal cord injury were investigated. METHODS: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from 4-week-old male Wistar rats. Passage 3 bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were induced by chemical methods and biological factors for later use. Spinal cord injury was induced in 48 male Wistar rats aged 8 weeks by spinal cord hemisection method. Then the rats were randomly divided into four groups: bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, chemically-induced, biological factor-induced and Dulbecco's modified Eagle’s medium (DMEM) groups, in which, passage 3 bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, chemically-induced or biological factor-induced, or DMEM-treated bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were injected into the injury region 1 week later, respectively. All 48 spinal cord injury rats were scored by the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan locomotor rating scale at various time points (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 weeks after injury). At the end of 12 weeks after injury, tissue sections from the injury region were prepared for observation of repair of spinal cord injury. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At 12 weeks after spinal cord injury induction, recovery of hindlimb motor functions was superior in the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, chemically-induced, biological factor-induced groups to that in the DMEM group (P < 0.05). There was no obvious difference in recovery of hindlimb motor function between bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells group and chemically-induced group (P = 0.436 3), and the hindlimb motor function recovery was better in the biological factor-induced group than that in the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells group and chemically-induced group (P < 0.05). The motor function recovery was superior in the biological factor-induced group to that in the other three groups. Hematoxylin-eosin staining results demonstrated that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells group and chemically-induced group showed similar outcomes: glial cells proliferation, neuron-like cell disruption and cavitation. The biological factor-induced group yielded best recovery of hindlimb motor function. These findings indicate that in the treatment of spinal cord injury by cell transplantation, chemically-induced and non-induced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells have no obvious difference, while biological factor-induced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells exhibit better therapeutic effects than non-induced and chemically-induced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Isolation and cultivation of keratinocyte stem-like cells from human skin dermis Chi Guang-fan, Li Mei-ying, Zhao Gui-fang, Deng Ji-Hong, Liu Jin-yu, Li Yu-lin 2013, 17 (23):  4264-4271.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.012 Abstract ( 445 )   PDF (548KB) ( 697 )   Save BACKGROUND: Skin dermis is an essential stem cell source, except basal layer of epidermis, for forming epidermis structure during the process of skin wound healing. OBJECTIVE: To explore a new method for isolating and culturing keratinocyte-stem like cells from human skin dermis.    METHODS: Definitive sizes of full skins from adult abdomen were digested with dispase overnight and the epidermal structure was discarded. The remaining dermis were digested with 0.1% type I collagenase overnight. Thereafter, the digested cells were collected by centrifugation, suspended in serum-free Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium/nutrient mixture F12 (1:1) containing 1% N2, 2% B27, 20 μg/L epidermal growth factor, 40 μg/L basic fibroblast growth factor, and cultured at a low cell density. The isolated and cultivated cells were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that, the cells isolated from dermis contained hair follicle stem cells expressing Lgr5 and Lirg1. The immunofluorescence analysis showed that, the cells isolated from dermis expressed cytokeratin 8 and cytokeratin 14. After cultivated in serum-free media for 6 days, some cytokeratin 14 and integrin-α6 positive cell colonies appeared “paving stone” like morphology. The passage 1 cells expressed keratinocyte stem cell markers, such as cytokeratin 14, CD29 and P63. The cell proliferation rate was declined with passage times and almost all cells were terminally differentiated at passage 3 or 4. Experimental findings indicate that, keratinocyte stem-like cells expressing CD29, cytokeratin 14 and P63 can be successfully isolated from human skin dermis by directly cultured at a low density and in serum-free media. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand modified human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells Du Jing-chun, Zhu Rui, Fan Ting-ting, Wang Peng-kun, Lin Yong-ping, Xu Xia 2013, 17 (23):  4272-4278.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.013 Abstract ( 363 )   PDF (516KB) ( 465 )   Save BACKGROUND: The new gene therapy with mesenchymal stem cells as carriers has wide application value. OBJECTIVE: To import tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand into human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells using lentiviral vector, in order to obtain human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells that stably express tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand. METHODS: The lentiviral expression vector pLVpuro/EF1α-tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand was constructed by multisite Gateway technique. The expression vector and the lentiviral packaging plasmid were co-transfected with 293FT cells to obtain the lentiviral plasmid carrying tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand. The human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells were transfected with recombinant lentivirus particles, and then the human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells that stably express target gene-tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand were obtained by using antibiotic screening methods. The stability of human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells was detected. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blot results indicated that the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand protein could be highly expressed in the transfected human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and the concentration of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand protein could reach 72 μg/L. These results suggest that the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand modified human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells are established successfully. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Characteristics of mouse embryonic hepatic stem cells in different embryodurations Wu Bi-gang, Chang Jing, Zhang Xiao-gang 2013, 17 (23):  4279-4285.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.014 Abstract ( 333 )   PDF (523KB) ( 475 )   Save BACKGROUND: Increasing attention has been paid on embryonic hepatic stem cells that have stronger proliferation and differentiation capacities, as well as lower immunogenicity and immunological activity than bone marrow stem cells. The majority of related studies focus on adult hepatic stem cells, and little evidence addresses mouse embryonic hepatic stem cells. OBJECTIVE: To compare the biological characteristics of mouse embryonic hepatic stem cells at different gestational ages and to explore the changes of stem cells during embryonic hepatic development process. METHODS: The mouse embryonic hepatic stem cells at different gestational ages (13.5, 16.5 and 19.5 days) were isolated and cultured with mechanical separation, enzyme digestion and differential adherence methods. The primary cell morphology, growth and phenotypic markers were observed and compared.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The embryonic hepatic stem cells at gestational 13.5 days showed uniform morphology, good growth, and apparent characteristics of stem cells, the albumin and cytokeratin 19 were not expressed. This is evidence that embryonic hepatic stem cells are under primary un-differentiated stage. As the increase of gestational age, embryonic hepatic stem cells presented morphological changes and poor growth, the albumin and cytokeratin 19 expression was increased. Experimental findings indicate that, embryonic hepatic stem cells may differentiate into double dominant stem cells with both hepatic cells and biliary tract markers. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Danhong injection plus bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation fortreatment of cerebral infarction in rats Zhang Peng, Zhou Guo-qing, Sun Jing-jing 2013, 17 (23):  4286-4291.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.015 Abstract ( 329 )   PDF (464KB) ( 417 )   Save BACKGROUND: Simple bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in repair of damaged brain tissues does not exhibit ideal effect. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of Danhong injection combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on the treatment of cerebral infarction in rats.  METHODS: The models of middle cerebral artery occlusion were established by suture method and randomly divided into three groups. Model group received tail vein injection of PBS. Danhong injection group received tail vein injection of 2 mL/kg Danhong injection. Combination group received injection of   2 mL/kg Danhong injection + 2.0×109/L bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell suspension, for 5 consecutive days, once a day. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At 2 weeks following bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation, the neurological function scores in the combination group were significantly better than those in the model group and Danhong injection group (P < 0.05). Cerebral infarct volume in the combination group was significantly less than that in the model and Danhong injection groups at 3 weeks following transplantation (P < 0.05). Histopathological observation showed that the reduced degree of tissue injury was larger in the combination group than the Danhong injection and model groups. Results indicated that Danhong injection combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on the treatment of rats with cerebral infarction showed remarkable effects and protected brain cells. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Meta analysis on CD133 expression and clinical significance in non-small cell lung cancer Gou Yun-jiu, He Xiao-dong, Xie Ding-xiong, Yang Ke-hu, Liu Ya-li, Zhang Jian-hua 2013, 17 (23):  4292-4298.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.016 Abstract ( 282 )   PDF (506KB) ( 543 )   Save BACKGROUND: Argument exists about the role of tumor stem cell marker CD133 in the development of non-small cell lung cancer. OBJECTIVE: To systemically evaluate the case-control studies addressing the CD133 expression and clinical significance in non-small cell lung cancer. METHODS: A computer-based retrieval of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CBM, VIP, CNKI and Wanfang Database was performed from their establishment to September 2012 for case-control studies investigating the CD133 expression and clinical significance in non-small cell lung cancer. After evaluating methodological quality of studies met the inclusion criteria, we analyzed the data with meta analysis using RevMan 5.1 software. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Ten case-control studies were identified, involving 808 cases with non-small cell lung cancer. Meta analysis results showed that, the positive rate of CD133 expression in non-small cell lung cancer was significantly higher than that in normal lung tissues [odd ratio (OR)=8.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) (4.61, 14.41), P < 0.000 01], and also higher in non-small cell lung cancer tissue with lymph node metastasis than that with non-lymph node metastasis [OR = 1.83, 95%CI (1.06, 3.17), P = 0.03], as well as higher in non-small cell lung cancer tissue with low and moderate differentiation than that with high differentiation [OR=2.09, 95%CI(1.42, 3.08), P=0.000 2]. There was no significant difference in the CD133 expression between pathologic grading I vs. pathologic grading Ⅱ-Ⅲ non-small cell lung cancer tissue [OR = 1.06, 95%CI (0.66, 1.70), P=0.81]. Experimental findings indicate that, CD133 plays a crucial role in the development of non-small cell lung cancer. However, it is still unclear whether CD133 could be regarded a marker to diagnose and predict non-small cell lung cancer, which needs more high-quality case-control studies to explore the question clearly. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Different ingredients of cell culture medium influence multi-differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells Li Yang-yang, Zhao Qing-hua 2013, 17 (23):  4299-4305.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.017 Abstract ( 515 )   PDF (523KB) ( 711 )   Save BACKGROUND: In the field of tissue engineering, there are an increasing number of studies describing oriented differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Different ingredients of culture medium produce effects on in vitro proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the effects of different ingredients of cell culture medium on oriented differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. METHODS: A computer-based online retrieval of PubMed and Wanfang databases was performed to search papers published between January 1998 and April 2012 using the key words “bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, cell culture medium, differentiation” in English and Chinese, respectively. Papers regarding effects of different ingredients of culture medium on osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were collected. Papers with repetitive contents were excluded. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 184 papers were initially retrieved. According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 of them were suitable for final analysis. Generally speaking, dexamethasone, transforming growth factor, vitamin C, vitamin D3, β-sodium glycerophosphate, and diethylstilbestrol are the main ingredients of cell culture medium to induce osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells; dexamethasone, transforming growth factor, vitamin C, insulin-like growth factor and fibroblast growth factor are the main ingredients of cell culture medium to induce chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells; dexamethasone, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, insulin and indometacin are the main ingredients of cell culture medium to induce adipogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of action and adverse events of some ingredients are poorly understood and need further investigation. In addition, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells are at low level in the bone marrow and different isolation methods will lead to different cell proportions. Therefore, a method of isolating high proportion of cells should be developed. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Alternative treatment with stem cells for treatment of nervous system diseases: Hope or hype? Ren Chao, Geng De-qin, Ge Wei, Li Jin-mei 2013, 17 (23):  4306-4312.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.018 Abstract ( 551 )   PDF (581KB) ( 592 )   Save BACKGROUND: Stem cells have been studied for over 50 years. The technology of isolating, culturing, purifying and identifying stem cells has been well mastered. The alternative treatment with stem cells for diseases of the nervous system has been used in the clinic. With being lack of uniform standard, there are some negative or hype reports, which trouble doctors and patients.  OBJECTIVE: To investigate the alternative treatment with stem cells for treatment of nervous system diseases is hope or hype? METHODS: Based on the insights on the reports on clinical application of stem cells published recently in People’s Daily and our clinical experiences in alterative treatment with stem cells for diseases of the nervous system, we analyzed the alternative treatment with stem cells for treatment of nervous system diseases after an online retrieval of Wanfang and PubMed databases (1999-01/2012-04) using the key words “stem cells, animal model, nerve” for papers regarding stem cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Animal experiments showed that neural stem cells exhibit some therapeutic effects on nervous system injury and degenerative diseases. Clinical application of stem cells is much restricted. Some countries have developed some large-scale clinical experiments and most of which are at clinical Ⅱ and Ⅲ phrases. Prochymal, a representative US product, has become the first global drug that has been approved to be used for treatment of systematic diseases. Industrialized stem cell products hold a great promise in clinical application. However, these stem cell products are not advocated to be widely used because of uncertain therapeutic effects and exaggerated commercial propaganda of stem cell products for financial gains are not desirable. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Effects of dental and non-dental stem cells in the study of tissue-engineered regenerated teeth Xu Hang, Nong Xiao-lin 2013, 17 (23):  4313-4319.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.019 Abstract ( 700 )   PDF (687KB) ( 803 )   Save BACKGROUND: Absence of tooth is a common organ loss for human. Recent study of tissue-engineered organ is gradually mature. Various adult stem cells have been used in the study of regenerated tooth. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the properties of various adult stem cells and to explore the effects and new progresses of various adult stem cells in the study of regenerated teeth. METHODS: An online retrieval of PubMed database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for articles published from 1979 to 2012 was conducted. In titles and abstracts, the keywords were “stem cells, tooth regeneration” in English, and “stem cells, regenerated tooth, tissue-engineered tooth, seed cells” in Chinese. Articles addressed adult stem cells, regenerated tooth and tooth tissue engineering. In the same field, articles published recently or in authorized journals were included. Finally, 53 articles were included. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Teeth grow in a special condition, and hardly regenerated. Histological engineering dental research has offered a new treatment for tooth loss treatment. A large number of experimental studies found that different adult stem cells can have different functions in the process of regenerating teeth in vitro and in vivo, with advantages and disadvantages. In contrast, the advantage of umbilical cord blood stem cells is more outstanding, and may play an important role in the future study of tooth regeneration. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells: Biological characteristics and therapeutic implications for cardiovascular diseases Zhang Wei, Liu Xiao-cheng 2013, 17 (23):  4320-4327.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.020 Abstract ( 425 )   PDF (550KB) ( 756 )   Save BACKGROUND: Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells are one type of perinatal stem cells which are capable of self-renewal and multi-differentiation. They are characterized by strong proliferative capability, low immunogenicity, abundant source, ease of production in industry, and free of ethical restriction. OBJECTIVE: To review the biological characteristics of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells and the application in cardiovascular disease treatment. METHODS: A computer-based online retrieval of Weipu database and PubMed database was performed to search papers using the key words “Wharton’s jelly, umbilical cord, mesenchymal stem cell" both in Chinese and English. All included 69 papers can accurately reflect and describe the biological characteristics of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells and the application in cardiovascular disease treatment.  RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells bear a striking resemblance to embryonic stem cells while maintaining the properties of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, the morphology of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells fits itself for the strong capacities for proliferation, migration and differentiation. Furthermore, Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells, which express more angiogenesis- and growth-related genes, are more suitable to treating ischemic lesions and reducing fibrosis and scarring. Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells, being hypoimmunogenic and non-tumorigenic, have the potential for safe cell-based therapies. However, there have been still some problems to be solved in the research of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells, such as cell isolation, culture in vitro, grow/differentiation in vivo and clinical applications. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Application of muscle-derived stem cells in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine Ding Wei-jin, Su Zhi-da, Jiang Hua 2013, 17 (23):  4328-4333.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.021 Abstract ( 372 )   PDF (491KB) ( 633 )   Save BACKGROUND: Muscle satellite cells are a main cell source for the repair of muscle tissue injury, and have been paid extensive attention in the study of muscle tissue regeneration. OBJECTIVE: To summarize the biological properties of muscle-derived stem cells and its application in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, and to explore the clinical application value and perspective of muscle-derived stem cells. METHODS: We retrieved Vip database and PubMed database for articles concerning the application of muscle-derived stem cells published from January 2000 to April 2011. In titles and abstracts, the key words were “muscle-derived stem cells, muscle satellite cells, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, adult stem cells, MDSCs, MSCs, ASCs”. Articles addressing the application of muscle-derived stem cells were included, and those in the same field published recently or in authorized journals were included. 189 literatures were primarily collected, and a total of 25 literatures were included according to the inclusion criteria. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Animal experiments and success clinical experiments suggested that in combination of genetic engineering and tissue engineering, tissue engineered tissues and cytological therapy based on muscle-derived stem cells can be used in various skeletal muscle diseases, myocardial diseases, urinary system and nervous system by safe measures. This provides a good healing perspective for clinical physicians and patients, but the study of muscle-derived stem cells still faced many problems. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Expression of tumor stem cell marker CD133 in lung cancer Qin Yong, Han Hong-guang 2013, 17 (23):  4334-4339.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.022 Abstract ( 470 )   PDF (375KB) ( 606 )   Save BACKGROUND: With the deepening of tumor stem cell research, lung cancer stem cells have become one of the research hotspots. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the expression of tumor stem cell marker CD133 in lung cancer tissues, and to evaluate the correlation with the clinicopathologic characteristics of lung cancer. METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the positive expression rate of CD133 in lung cancer tissues with different types and differentiation degrees, as well as to analyze the correlation between CD133 positive expression and the clinicopathologic characteristics, including the age, gender,    size of the tumor, histological type, stage and grade, degree of differentiation, lymphatic metastasis and prognosis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: CD133 had higher positive expression rate in various types of lung cancer tissues, but the positive expression rate had correlation neither with the clinical characteristics of the patients including age and gender, nor with the histological type, stage and grade and the degree of differentiation. The positive expression rate was closely related with lymphatic metastasis and prognosis. The positive expression rate of CD133 was higher in the lung cancer tissues with lymphatic metastasis, and 5-year survival rate was significantly lower with poor prognosis. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Current progress and prospects of induced pluripotent stem cells Chu Hai-tao, Li Xiao-lei, Jia Xin-shan 2013, 17 (23):  4340-4346.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.023 Abstract ( 414 )   PDF (519KB) ( 594 )   Save BACKGROUND: As embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells are able to self-renew indefinitely and differentiate into all types of somatic cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells are not only valuable for cell replacement therapy, but also useful for disease modeling in vitro, facilitating studies of mechanisms underlying disease development, drug screening, and development of new therapeutic strategy. OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively analyze the method for induced pluripotent stem cells. METHODS: An online search of PubMed database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure was undertaken to identify articles about induced pluripotent stem cells published from January 2006 to December 2011. The keywords were “induced pluripotent stem cells”. 330 literatures were collected, and those old or repetitive literatures were excluded. Thus, 31 literatures were included. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Articles explained the following aspects: gene transfer into induced pluripotent stem cells, protein transfer into induced pluripotent stem cells, micromolecule transfer into induced pluripotent stem cells, properties and difference of induced pluripotent stem cell line, to elevate the transformation efficiency of induced pluripotent stem cells, application of induced pluripotent stem cells in the treatment of animal disease models. Studies have found that somatic cells with suitable matching transcription factor are potential practical initiation point of producing induced pluripotent stem cells. Gene transfer into induced pluripotent stem cells still has unsolved problems, but protein transfer into induced pluripotent stem cells cannot affect hereditary substance of cells. The combination of induction technique of induced pluripotent stem cells and transgenic animal technique can perform directed variation and breeding, elevate animal’s heredity, accelerate hereditary variation of animal population. Induced pluripotent stem cells not only have essential values in substitution therapy, but also can be used in the establishment of in vitro disease models, which contributes to the study of disease mechanisms, drug monitoring and determination of new therapeutics. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Research and progress in stem cell anti-aging theory Shan Sha-rui, Huang Guo-zhi 2013, 17 (23):  4347-4354.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.024 Abstract ( 1488 )   PDF (770KB) ( 2303 )   Save BACKGROUND: Aging is an inevitable trend of biological development and a complex process during the whole life. The body can be affected by external environment including diverse materials, energy and information. Tissue and organ will inevitably suffer from avoid injuries and retrogressive function. With an improvement in medical technique and quality of life and an increase in aging population, human organs have pathological changes, such as high blood pressure and coronary atherosclerosis. Postponing aging can reduce the incidence of these diseases, improve the function of the whole body and thereby improve the quality of life. Anti-aging has been paid increasing attention. OBJECTIVE: To review the relationship between stem cells and anti-aging based on the theory of aging. METHODS: An online search of Wanfang and PubMed databases was performed for articles published before April 2012 (CNKI) or between January 1865 and April 2012 (Medline) using the keywords “stem cells, progenitor cells, totipotent stem cell, multipotent stem cell, anti-aging” in Chinese and English, respectively. Related monographs were also manually searched. A total of 152 articles were retrieved, and 53 were suitable for final analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Stem cells have self-renewal potential, anti-free radical ability and secrete some cytokines, for example superoxide dismutase and insulin-like growth factor, to better the functions of the body. It has been confirmed in animal experiments that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, embryonic stem cells, umbilical cord blood stem cells and germline stem cells have the anti-aging potential. Adipose-derived stem cells have been used for anti-aging in the clinic. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Intra-articular injection of mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of meniscusinjury Huang Shu-mei, Tian Jing 2013, 17 (23):  4355-4362.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.025 Abstract ( 1001 )   PDF (586KB) ( 829 )   Save BACKGROUND: Poor therapeutic effects of meniscus injury greatly influence the quality of life of the patients. What's even worse, it may lead to the end of the sport life of athletes. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficiency of intra-articular injection of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of meniscus injury. METHODS: A computer-based online retrieval of PubMed database, CNKI database between May 1980 and August 2012 was performed to search articles regarding intra-articular injection using the key words “meniscus, mesenchymal stem cell, intra-articular injection, regeneration” in English or Chinese. In the same research field, papers published recently or in authoritative journals were selected. A total of 181 papers were initially retrieved. According to inclusion criteria, 62 papers regarding use of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment for meniscus injuries” were suitable for final analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The intra-articularly injected mesenchymal stem cells adhered to the injury site and differentiated into meniscal cells, thus effectively enhanced the repair of meniscus injury and accelerated meniscus regeneration. Intra-articular injection of mesenchymal stem cells is of great clinical value for treatment of meniscus injury. Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics

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Autologous iliac crest grafting combined with stem cells transplantation in the treatment of early osteonecrosis of the femoral head Zheng Yue, Yang Xiang-lei, Wang Hui, Li Hui-jie 2013, 17 (23):  4363-4370.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2013.23.026 Abstract ( 425 )   PDF (505KB) ( 471 )   Save BACKGROUND: There are several existing treatments for osteonecrosis of the femoral head, and early treatment is widely suggested. OBJECTIVE: To study the curative effect of autologous iliac bone transplantation through decompression and fenestration over the femoral head and neck combined with implantation of peripheral blood hemopoietic stem cells in the treatment of femoral head osteonecrosis at early period. METHODS: A total of 21 patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral heads (36 hips) were treated with autologous iliac bone transplantation through decompression and fenestration over the femoral head and neck combined with implantation of peripheral blood hemopoietic stem cells from February 2009 to March 2012. Their age ranged 22-50 years (mean 33.6 years). Unilateral head necrosis occurred in six hips, and bilateral head necrosis occurred in 30 hips. The average medical history was 1.4 years ranging from 8 months to 3 years. According to the standard of ARCO staging, seven hips were in the stage Ⅰ, and 29 hips in the stage Ⅱ. The curative effect was analyzed according to clinical symptoms, Harris scores of hip joint function, X-ray film and CT before and after operation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: All the involved 21 patients (36 hips) were followed up for 12-48 months postoperatively. Among them, 29 hips obtained excellent results, showing the pain disappearance and free activities. The femoral head density, trabecular structure and hip joint gap were significantly improved after treatment compared with before treatment. Six hips got relief of clinical symptoms, and one hip had no improvement with exacerbation. The rate of excellent and good effects was 97.2% (35/36). The Harris score increased averagely from preoperative (60.9±5.6) points to postoperative (90.5±5.1) points, with significant differences (P < 0.05). Experimental findings indicate that, bone transplantation through fenestration over the femoral head and neck combined with implantation of peripheral blood hemopoietic stem cells is a promising therapy for the early osteonecrosis of the femoral head, and further studies are required to achieve perfect effects Figures and Tables | References | Related Articles | Metrics