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    28 February 2023, Volume 27 Issue 6 Previous Issue    Next Issue
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    Protection of manganese oxide nanoparticles for bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell spreading against oxidative stress
    Tian Qinyu, Tian Xinggui, Tian Zhuang, Sui Xiang, Liu Shuyun, Lu Xiaobo, Guo Quanyi
    2023, 27 (6):  821-826.  doi: 10.12307/2023.230
    Abstract ( 649 )   PDF (4762KB) ( 52 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: During stem cell transplantation, the generation of a large number of free radicals damages the cells in situ, and then reducing the cell survival. In the past decade, the emergence of nanozymes provides a new method for scavenging excess free radicals. Among them, manganese oxide (Mn3O4) is one of the promising nanomaterials, because it could provide Mn trace elements in human body as well as its well antioxidative stress properties and biodegradability. Mn3O4 can be used as a new type of nanomaterial to protect the extension function of stem cells.
    OBJECTIVE: To produce Mn3O4 nanoparticles for detecting its effect on scavenging and spreading function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells during oxidative stress. 
    METHODS:  Mn3O4 nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal method. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the morphology and structure of Mn3O4, respectively. The particle size and zetapotential data of the nanoparticle in human-simulated environment were detected by the dynamic light scattering. The antioxidant capacity of Mn3O4 was tested in neutral environment. The CCK-8 and live-dead staining assays were utilized to verify the biological toxicity of Mn3O4 to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. H2O2 was used to induce oxidative stress of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. The effect of Mn3O4 on antioxidant ability and spreading ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells was detected under oxidative stress. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The results of scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction exhibited that the material was Mn3O4 with average particle size about 70-80 nm. The dynamic light scattering showed that the particle size of the nanoparticles in PBS solution was about 100 nm, and the Zeta potential was about +20 mV. Antioxidant performance experiments showed that Mn3O4 had a certain antioxidant capacity. (2) The CCK-8 assay, live-death staining and reactive oxygen scavenging experiment demonstrated that Mn3O4 did not show biotoxicity and exhibited a certain level of reactive oxygen scavenging ability under 40 mg/L. (3) The cell spreading analysis showed that H2O2 had a significant inhibitory effect on the spreading function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. After adding Mn3O4 into the cell culture microenvironment, the cell spreading area had no significant difference compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Moreover, the single use of Mn3O4 did not inhibit the spreading function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (P > 0.05). (4) The results have shown that the addition of Mn3O4 nanoparticles in the cell microenvironment can resist oxidative stress and have a certain protective effect on the spreading function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.
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    Effect of M2 macrophage-derived exosomes on osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
    Liu Wentao, Feng Xingchao, Yang Yi, Bai Shengbin
    2023, 27 (6):  840-845.  doi: 10.12307/2023.243
    Abstract ( 527 )   PDF (9576KB) ( 43 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: At present, studies have shown that M2 macrophages can promote osteogenic differentiation and regulate it in a network, and exosomes can carry a lot of information to participate in intercellular signal transduction. Whether M2 macrophage-derived exosomes can promote the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells remains to be studied.  
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of M2 macrophage-derived exosomes on osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.
    METHODS:  Rat derived macrophage line RAW264.7 was cultured with rat bone marrow mesenchymal cell line CP-M131 to the third generation. Interleukin 4 was used to induce macrophages to polarize into M2 macrophages. Exosomes were extracted from M2 macrophage culture supernatant. Exosomes at the final mass concentration of 0, 30, 60, 90 mg/L were cocultured with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for 72 hours, and 60 mg/L M2 macrophage-derived exosomes were cocultured with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for 24, 48 and 72 hours. The expression levels of osteogenic related factors RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase protein in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were detected by western blot assay and the mineral deposition was detected by alizarin red staining.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:  (1) The expression levels of osteogenic related factors RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase were closely related to the mass concentration of macrophage exosomes. Compared with the blank control group, the expression of RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase in 60 mg/L exosome group increased significantly (P < 0.05), and the expression of RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase after 72 hours of intervention increased significantly (P < 0.05). (2) The results of alizarin red experiment showed that compared with the blank control group, the content of calcium ion in 60 mg/L exosome group was higher (P < 0.05), and the content of calcium ion after 72 hours of intervention was higher (P < 0.05). (3) The results showed that the exosomes secreted by M2 macrophages in vitro could induce the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts.
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    Casein kinase 2-interaction protein-1 regulates the osteogenic ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in osteoporosis rats
    Long Yanming, Xie Mengsheng, Huang Jiajie, Xue Wenli, Rong Hui, Li Xiaojie
    2023, 27 (6):  878-882.  doi: 10.12307/2023.249
    Abstract ( 357 )   PDF (1868KB) ( 26 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: At present, in vitro studies on the molecular mechanism of casein kinase 2-interaction protein-1 (CKIP-1) mainly focus on gene knockout mouse-derived osteoblasts or bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. There are few reports focusing on the expression of CKIP-1 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells derived from osteoporosis model rats.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells before and after down-regulation of CKIP-1 gene.
    METHODS:  An osteoporotic rat model was induced by retinoic acid gavage. The bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells of the osteoporosis group and the normal group were cultured in vitro by the whole bone marrow adherence method. After osteogenic induction, Alizarin red staining, alkaline phosphatase staining and real-time quantitative RT-PCR were utilized to detect the relative expression of osteopontin and Runx2 mRNA. The dynamic expression of CKIP-1 in the two groups of cells was detected by using real-time quantitative RT-PCR. CKIP-1 gene was silenced by gene transfection. After osteogenic induction, alizarin red staining, alkaline phosphatase staining, and real-time quantitative RT-PCR were performed to detect the relative expression of osteopontin and Runx2 mRNA. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the normal group, alizarin red staining of calcium nodules, alkaline phosphatase activity and mRNA levels of osteopontin and Runx2 in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells decreased in the osteoporosis group (P < 0.05). The dynamic expression level of CKIP-1 gene in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells was generally higher in the osteoporosis group. (2) Compared with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells of osteoporosis group without down-regulation of CKIP-1, after down-regulation of CKIP-1 gene expression, the quantification of calcium nodules and alkaline phosphatase activity by alizarin red staining, mRNA levels of osteopontin and Runx2 were significantly increased in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells of the osteoporosis group (P < 0.05). (3) Therefore, osteogenic ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in rats with retinoic acid-induced osteoporosis is reduced and down-regulation of CKIP-1 gene can partially improve their osteogenic differentiation ability.
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    Clinical-grade human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells affect the improvement of neurological function in rats with traumatic brain injury
    Cui Lianxu, Jiang Wenkang, Lu Dahong, Xu Junrong, Liu Xiaocui, Wang Bingyun
    2023, 27 (6):  835-839.  doi: 10.12307/2023.231
    Abstract ( 419 )   PDF (1741KB) ( 35 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury is one of the most serious neurological diseases with the highest incidence in the world, and there is no effective therapy at present. Studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells have a certain repair effect on traumatic brain injury. 
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of clinical-grade umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells on the improvement of neurological function in rats with traumatic brain injury. 
    METHODS:  Forty-five rats were divided into three groups, namely sham operation group (n=15), model group (n=15) and stem cell group (n=15). Except the sham operation group, the modified Feeney free fall method was used to establish the traumatic brain injury model in the model and stem cell groups. At 24 hours after model establishment, the model group was implanted with 20 μL normal saline; and the stem cell group was implanted with 20 μL human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell suspension, a total of 1×106 cells. At 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after cell transplantation, the neural function of the rats was evaluated by modified neurological severity scores. At 21 days after injection, the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax mRNA was detected by RT-qPCR. The expression levels of gliocyte markers GFAP and IBA1 were detected by RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence method. At 21 days after injection, plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6 and interleukin 10 were determined by ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the brain tissue structure. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the model group, modified neurological severity score was significantly lower and the motor function was significantly improved in the stem cell group. (2) Compared with the model group, Bcl-2/Bax mRNA ratio was significantly increased in brain tissue, the expression of GFAP and IBA1 was significantly decreased in the stem cell group, while the expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6 and interleukin 10 in plasma was not significantly different. (3) Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that the defect area and edema of brain tissue and neuronal apoptosis were improved in different degrees in the stem cell group. (4) The results show that clinical-grade human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells can promote neurological function recovery, reduce neuronal apoptosis and inhibit glial overactivation after traumatic brain injury.
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    Three-dimensional culture affects morphology, activity and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells
    Li Xinyue, Li Xiheng, Mao Tianjiao, Tang Liang, Li Jiang
    2023, 27 (6):  846-852.  doi: 10.12307/2023.221
    Abstract ( 407 )   PDF (5203KB) ( 41 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Periodontal ligament stem cells, as a member of odontogenic mesenchymal stem cells, are the research hotspot of periodontal bone tissue engineering in recent years. Due to the insufficient number of stem cells and the influence of microenvironment, the regeneration ability of periodontal tissue often cannot meet the needs of treatment. In recent years, flaky cultured cell sheets and three-dimensional cultured cell spheres, as substitutes for single cell suspension injection, can effectively improve the problems of insufficient quantity and microenvironment, and become the research trend of tissue engineering. However, there are few studies on the formation of periodontal ligament stem cell spheres by three-dimensional culture technology. 
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of three-dimensional culture technology on the morphology, activity and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells.
    METHODS:  Human periodontal ligament stem cells were cultured by modified enzyme digestion method, and then identified. The morphology of cell spheres was detected by cytoskeleton and nuclear fluorescence labeling. The activity of cell spheres was detected by Live/Dead staining kit. The effects of three-dimensional culture on osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells were analyzed by alkaline phosphatase activity and osteogenic related gene expression.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The morphology and activity of human periodontal ligament stem cell spheroid cells changed in a time-dependent manner. With the increase of time, the diameter of cell sphere became smaller and the number of dead cells in the core of sphere increased. (2) Compared with two-dimensional culture, three-dimensional culture of human periodontal ligament stem cells increased alkaline phosphatase activity at 3 days of osteogenic induction and the expression of osteogenic related genes and β-catenin at 3, 4, and 7 days of osteogenic induction, suggesting that three-dimensional culture technology can promote the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells, which may be related to Wnt/ β-catenin pathway.
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    Effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes on hypoxia-treated myoblasts
    Li Qicheng, Deng Jin, Fu Xiaoyang, Han Na
    2023, 27 (6):  853-859.  doi: 10.12307/2023.264
    Abstract ( 391 )   PDF (5547KB) ( 77 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: The cellular functions will be changed in hypoxic conditions, and the exosomes secreted by mesenchymal stem cells can alleviate the pathological damage caused by hypoxia.  
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of different concentrations of CoCl2 on the functional changes of myoblasts, and to further study the effects of exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on apoptosis and reactive oxygen species production of hypoxia-treated myoblasts.
    METHODS:  Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from SD rats were isolated in vitro. Exosomes were extracted by ultracentrifugation and identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and western blot assay. Myoblasts were treated with 0, 50, 100, 200 μmol/L CoCl2 for 1, 3, 5, 7 days, and the proliferation activity of myoblasts was detected by CCK-8 assay. After 5 days of treatment, the expression levels of myoblasts differentiation genes MyHC, MyoD and MyoG were detected by qRT-PCR, and the fusion of myoblasts was observed by modified Giemsa staining. Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis rate of myoblasts after treatment for 3 and 5 days. DCFH-DA staining was used to observe the changes of reactive oxygen species of myoblasts after 3 days of treatment. Myoblasts were divided into four groups: control group (0 μmol/L CoCl2), CoCl2 group (200 μmol/L CoCl2), exosomes group (200 μmol/L CoCl2+50 μg/mL exosomes), and NAC group (200 μmol/L CoCl2+2 mmol/L NAC). The apoptosis rate and reactive oxygen species level were detected after 3 days of treatment.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The exosomes showed cup-like structure. The particle size distribution of exosomes was between 30-150 nm, and the expression of CD9 and TSG101 was positive. (2) CoCl2 had a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts (P < 0.05) and promoted the apoptosis of myoblasts (P < 0.05), and the high concentration of CoCl2 had a more obvious inhibitory effect on the functions of myoblasts. (3) Exosomes reduced the apoptosis rate of myoblasts and reactive oxygen species level induced by 200 μmol/L CoCl2 (P < 0.05), and it was similar to the anti-reactive oxygen species reagent NAC in reducing the level of reactive oxygen species (P < 0.05). (4) These findings suggest that CoCl2 had different inhibitory effects on the physiological functions of myoblasts in a concentration-time dependent manner, while the exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and NAC had similar effects of anti-hypoxia apoptosis and reducing the reactive oxygen species. The mechanism may be that the exosomes alleviated the hypoxia-induced apoptosis of myoblasts by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species.
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    Inhalation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes alleviates inflammatory injury in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    Wang Min, Yin Xiushan, Wang Yingxi, Zhang Yan, Zhao Long, Xia Shuyue
    2023, 27 (6):  827-834.  doi: 10.12307/2023.265
    Abstract ( 710 )   PDF (4218KB) ( 63 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Many studies have demonstrated that exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells show strong repair and regeneration ability in various models of respiratory inflammation and disease injury, but there are few studies on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and no studies have applied aerosolized inhalation of exosomes in model experiments of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the therapeutic effects of exosomes derived from rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on inflammation and lung injury in rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by aerosol inhalation, and to determine the optimal therapeutic dose.
    METHODS:  Rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and cultured in vitro, and exosomes were extracted and identified. The rat model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was established by lipopolysaccharide combined with smoking for 28 days. Then low dose (0.5×108 particles/kg), medium dose (1.0×108 particles/kg), and high dose (1.5×108 particles/kg) exosome aerosol treatment and exosome (1.5×108 particles/kg) were given by tail vein injection. The model group was atomized with 1 mL PBS, while the control group was not molded with 1 mL PBS. Continuous atomization or injection was conducted for 5 days, and the test was started on the second day after the last atomization or injection treatment. The lung function indexes were tested by small animal pulmonary function instrument. The levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum were detected by ELISA. The changes of lung tissues were assessed histologically by hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The exosomes of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells showed elliptic double-membrane vesicles under transmission electron microscopy, which were typical cup-shaped. Particle size analysis indicated that the peak diameter of exosomes was 91.7 nm, accounting for 97.3%, and the particle concentration was 3.3×109 L-1. In addition, surface proteins CD9 and CD63 were highly expressed. (2) Compared with caudal vein injection of exosome, aerosol inhalation of exosome significantly improved lung function, collagen deposition and pathological changes of lung tissue in rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and significantly decreased the levels of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum. The low exosome dose had the most significant therapeutic effect. (3) These results suggest that inhalation of exosomes from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells can reduce inflammatory injury in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the optimal dose may be 0.5×108 particles/kg.
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    Proteomic analysis of cerebrospinal fluid exosomes derived from cerebral palsy children
    Zhang Houjun, Deng Bowen, Jiang Shengyuan, Zhao Yi, Ren Jingpei, Xu Lin, Mu Xiaohong
    2023, 27 (6):  903-908.  doi: 10.12307/2023.262
    Abstract ( 497 )   PDF (2304KB) ( 40 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Cerebral palsy is a wide range of nerve injury diseases. Its etiology is still unclear to a great extent, and the molecular indicators used for classification or monitoring of the disease have not been reported.  
    OBJECTIVE: To isolate and culture cerebrospinal fluid derived exosomes from children with cerebral palsy, and analyze the proteomic expression profile characteristics of exosomes by label-free quantitative mass spectrometry proteomics, so as to provide molecular biological basis for typing, diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of children with cerebral palsy.
    METHODS: Among cerebral palsy patients undergoing selective posterior rhizotomy at Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, there were four patients with spastic cerebral palsy and three patients with mixed cerebral palsy. 3 mL cerebrospinal fluid was extracted from each patient. The exosomes in the cerebrospinal fluid of children with cerebral palsy were separated by ultracentrifugation, and characterized by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscope and protein mass spectrometry.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Transmission electron microscopy showed that there were secretory vesicles in cerebrospinal fluid of children with cerebral palsy. Western blot assay detected the expression of secrete marker proteins Syntenin-1 and Flotillin-1. (2) Nanoparticle tracking analysis showed that the size and concentration of vesicles were consistent with the heterogeneity of exosomes. The cerebrospinal fluid exosomes of spastic cerebral palsy and mixed cerebral palsy were analyzed by protein mass spectrometry. A total of 551 proteins were identified. (3) Bioinformatics analysis showed that the identified cerebrospinal fluid exosome proteins were related to the molecular signal mechanism of exosome function and neural development. These proteins were mainly concentrated in brain regions such as frontal cortex and motor cortex, which were closely related to the pathology of cerebral palsy. It is concluded that there are exosomes in cerebrospinal fluid of children with cerebral palsy, and exosome proteins may be related to the molecular pathological mechanism of cerebral palsy.
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    Extraction and identification of exosomes from three different sources of ovarian granulosa cells
    Gao Ting, Ma Xiaohong, Li Xiaorong
    2023, 27 (6):  860-865.  doi: 10.12307/2023.222
    Abstract ( 724 )   PDF (3330KB) ( 91 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Ovarian granulosa cells, as the main functional cells in ovarian follicles, communicate with oocytes through complex gap junctions, and regulate the growth and maturation of oocytes. With the deepening of exosome research, it is found that it actively participates in the communication between cells, and carries a variety of genetic materials, which can be absorbed by cells through autocrine or paracrine, regulate cell proliferation, and participate in the physiological and pathological processes of diseases. It can be seen that the exosome secretion capacity and extraction and identification of ovarian granulosa cells are of great significance for the study of female reproduction.  
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the ability of human ovarian granulosa cells to isolate exosomes and the differences between exosomes from human ovarian granulosa cells of different origins.
    METHODS:  SVOG (human ovarian granulosa cell line), KGN (human ovarian granulosa cell tumor cells) and human primary ovarian granulosa cells were cultured in vitro. Exosomes were isolated from the supernatants of the three different cells by ultra-high speed centrifugation. The morphological structures, particle sizes, and the expression of CD63, tumor susceptibility gene (TSG101) and calnexin were measured by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracer technique, and western blot assay, respectively.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The nuclei of SVOG cells, KGN cells and human primary ovarian granulosa cells were round or oval with large nuclei, blue-stained nucleosomes and light red cytoplasm. SVOG cells and KGN cells were long spindle-shaped or polygonal with irregular morphology, and human primary ovarian granulosa cells were mostly protruding or spindle-shaped with elongated pseudopodia and closely intertwined with each other. (2) Immunofluorescence from three different sources of human ovarian granulosa cells was positive for FSHR expression, and the positive expression rate was greater than 95%. (3) The morphology of the exosomes isolated from the supernatants of the three different cells presented a cup-like bilayer structure. (4) Nanoparticle tracer technique showed that the mean particle sizes of exosomes from SVOG cells, KGN cells and human primary ovarian granulosa cells were (183.5±4.9) nm, (125.3±1.0) nm, and (171.1±2.0) nm, respectively. Among them, human primary ovarian granulosa cell-derived exosomes had the highest secretion levels. The exosomes from KGN cells had the smallest particle size, and the exosomes from SVOG cells were relatively similar in size to those from human primary ovarian granulosa cells. (5) Western blot assasy results showed that the exosomes from three different sources of ovarian granulosa cells were positive for the specific protein CD63 and the tumor susceptibility gene (TSG101) but negative for Calnexin. (6) These findings confirm that the ultra-high speed centrifugation method can successfully isolate and extract ovarian granulosa cell exosomes, among which KGN cell-derived exosomes have the smallest particle size; the particle sizes of exosomes derived from SVOG cells and human primary ovarian granulosa cells are similar; human primary ovarian granulosa cells have the strongest ability to secrete exosomes.
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    Osteogenic differentiation of human perivascular stem cells and its regulation based on Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway
    Yuan Wei, Liu Jingdong, Xu Guanghui, Kang Jian, Li Fuping, Wang Yingjie, Zhi Zhongzheng, Li Guanwu
    2023, 27 (6):  866-871.  doi: 10.12307/2023.250
    Abstract ( 484 )   PDF (2519KB) ( 104 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Perivascular stem cells are derived from adult adipose tissue, which can be easily purified. Perivascular stem cells represent a comparatively homogenous population and have the ability of strong proliferation and multidirectional differentiation. 
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the osteogenic differentiation ability of human perivascular stem cells and the regulation by Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by in vitro and in vivo experiments.
    METHODS:  Perivascular stem cells were extracted from human lipoaspirate via fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Osteogenic differentiation of passage 1 perivascular stem cells was observed. Cells were randomly divided into blank control group, osteogenic differentiation group and Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibition group. Alkaline phosphatase staining was performed on day 5 of osteogenic induction. Alizarin red staining was performed on day 10. On day 7, the protein expression of Runt related transcription factor 2 was detected by western blot assay. Perivascular stem cells + nano-hydroxyapatite/poly lactic-co-glycolic acid scaffold was prepared. Bone repair effect of perivascular stem cells in vivo was evaluated by using the model of tibia monolayer cortical bone defect in athymic mice. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) There were about (1.82±0.32)×107 stromal vascular fraction cells per 100 mL of fat tissue, and of which the living cells accounted for (82.72±5.37)%. Through fluorescence-activated cell sorting, the proportion of adventitial cells (CD34+, CD45-, CD146-) was (17.66±1.05)%; and the proportion of pericytes (CD146+, CD45-, CD34-) was (7.18±0.52)%. Perivascular stem cells proliferated rapidly and still maintained strong proliferative ability within 10 generations. (2) In vitro studies had confirmed that perivascular stem cells had the ability of osteogenic differentiation. In addition, the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) was significantly reduced and osteogenic differentiation of perivascular stem cells was attenuated by inhibition of Wnt signaling pathway. Animal experiments further confirmed the osteogenic effect of perivascular stem cell composite scaffolds. (3) These results indicate that Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in the osteogenic differentiation of perivascular stem cells, which provides a new therapeutic option for bone repair. 
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    Comparison of puerarin and icariin on the biological properties of mouse preosteoblasts
    Qiao Luhui, Ma Ziyu, Guo Haoyu, Hou Yudong
    2023, 27 (6):  872-877.  doi: 10.12307/2023.219
    Abstract ( 494 )   PDF (2131KB) ( 53 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Compared with the traditional autogenous bone graft methods, the bone tissue engineering repair strategies have their advantages of less trauma, free immunogenicity, and promotion of bone regeneration among the bone defect repair modes in the implant area. The scheme that applies the traditional Chinese medicine ingredients with less adverse reactions than chemical synthetic drugs to the bone defect area of osteoporosis patients constitutes an important part of the bone tissue engineering scaffold to deliver drugs.
    OBJECTIVE: To compare effects of puerarin and icariin on the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of mouse preosteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) and select effective osteogenic drugs.
    METHODS:  The optimal concentration of puerarin and icariin to promote the proliferation and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 was determined. Cultured cells were divided into control group, 17β-estradiol group, icariin group, and puerarin group. Cell proliferation and viability were detected at 1, 4, and 7 days after drug intervention. Alkaline phosphatase activity was detected at 1, 7, and 14 days after osteogenic induction. Calcified nodules after alizarin red staining were measured at 21 days after osteogenic induction. Real time-qPCR was used to detect the expression of osteoprotegerin and Runt-associated transcription factor 2 mRNA at 7 days after osteogenic induction. The morphology of the cytoskeleton after 24 hours was observed using phalloidin staining.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Puerarin and icariin exhibited the best effect on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation at concentration of 10-7 mol/L and 10-6 mol/L. At 4 days of culture, compared with the icariin group, the ability of puerarin to promote cell proliferation was stronger, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). At 7 days of osteogenic induction, compared with the puerarin group, the alkaline phosphatase activity of the icariin group was stronger; the expression levels of osteoprotegerin and Runt-related transcription factor 2 mRNA were significantly up-regulated; at 21 days of induction, the number and area of calcified nodules increased significantly, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). After 24 hours of culture, the cytoskeletal morphology was grid-like spreading. Compared with the control group, the actin ran clearly in the estrogen group, the puerarin group and the icariin group. According to the results, puerarin can better accelerate the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells, and icariin can better promote the differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 cells.
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    An experimental method for simultaneously culturing primary cortical and hippocampal neurons
    Liao Yidong, Ming Jiang, Song Wenxue, Wang Zili, Zhang Yu, Liao Yifei, Xu Kaya, Yang Hua
    2023, 27 (6):  897-902.  doi: 10.12307/2023.242
    Abstract ( 487 )   PDF (3486KB) ( 27 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: In recent years, primary neuronal cell models have played an important role in brain diseases. The characteristics of such cell models are closer to disease cells and can be used to simulate various neurological diseases.  
    OBJECTIVE: To establish a convenient and practical culture method that can simultaneously extract primary cortical and hippocampal neurons.
    METHODS:  The SD rats within 24 hours of the newborn were sacrificed by chiropractic method, and then sterilized with 75% ethanol. After separating the skull and meninges using forceps, the whole brain was dissected out. The cerebrovascular membrane was stripped, and the cerebral cortex and hippocampus were dissociated. The sequential digestion protocol of papain and appropriate amount of DNase was used. After pipetting, centrifugation, and filtration, the samples were inoculated into L-polylysine-coated six-well plates and slides. DMEM-F12 medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum was used as the seeding medium. 6 hours later, the serum-free special medium containing Neurobasal B27 was used. After culturing for 7 days, the cell morphology and growth state were observed under the microscope. The cortical and hippocampal neurons were identified by β-Tubulin immunofluorescence method and Neun antibody immunohistochemistry. The marker MAP2 immunofluorescence method was applied to identify the purity.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) 24 hours after inoculation, the volume of cells became clear, presented irregular circles, surrounded by halos, and a few cells had small protrusions, all of which had grown adherently to the wall. After 3 days of continuous culture, the cell bodies gradually increased; some of them grew in clusters; synapses were elongated; and cross-links appeared between cells. After 7 days of continuous culture, the cell body was mature and full; the cytoplasm was significantly increased; the halo was enhanced; and a denser neuronal network was formed. (2) Neurons were identified by Neun antibody immunohistochemistry and β-Tubulin immunofluorescence method. The purities of cortical and hippocampal neurons were (94.00±0.34)% and (91.00±0.26)%, respectively detected using neuronal marker MAP2 immunofluorescence method. Neuronal cells could be used for experiments. (3) These results suggest that the cerebral cortex and hippocampus were isolated from the same batch of neonatal SD rats within 24 hours. After sequential digestion with papain and DNase, high-quality hippocampal and cortical neurons can be extracted. The neurons obtained by this protocol have high purity and simplified operation, and can be used as the basis for various neurological disease cell models.
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    Spatiotemporal dynamic changes of ependymal cells after spinal cord injury in transgenic mice
    Hao Liufang, Duan Hongmei, Wang Zijue, Hao Fei, Hao Peng, Zhao Wen, Gao Yudan, Yang Zhaoyang, Li Xiaoguang
    2023, 27 (6):  883-889.  doi: 10.12307/2023.228
    Abstract ( 453 )   PDF (7840KB) ( 23 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Spinal cord ependymal cells exhibit neural stem/progenitor cell properties after injury in adult mammalian.
    OBJECTIVE: Ependymal cells were labeled with Nestin and Foxj1 transgenic mice to track the proliferation and differentiation fate of ependymal cells and their progeny after spinal cord injury in adult mice.
    METHODS:  A 1-mm section was completely removed from the T8 segment of the spinal cord in transgenic mice. Ependymal cells were dynamically observed by continuous intraperitoneal injection of BrdU at 1-7 days after spinal cord injury. At different time points (3, 7, 14, 28, 56 days) after spinal cord injury, the genetic fate mapping of ependymal cells in the lesion edge was observed by immunofluorescence staining of BrdU, GFAP, Tuj1, and NeuN.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) In the uninjured spinal cord, Nestin-positive ependymal cells were quiescent. Ependymal cells were activated and proliferated around the lesion edge at 3 days after spinal cord injury. (2) Approximately 3.3% of Nestin-positive ependymal cells expressed neuronal marker Tuj1 at 28 days after spinal cord injury. (3) At 56 days after injury, approximately 25.7% of Nestin-positive ependymal cells differentiated into astrocytes and formed the core of glial scar, participating in the formation of glial scar. (4) This article can provide theoretical basis for understanding the pathological process and new ideas for spinal cord injury repair by detecting the spatiotemporal changes, proliferation and differentiation characteristics of ependymal cells after spinal cord injury. 
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    Collagen/silk fibroin scaffold combined with neural stem cells in the treatment of traumatic spinal cord injury
    Li Xiaoyin, Yang Xiaoqing, Chen Shulian, Li Zhengchao, Wang Ziqi, Song Zhen, Zhu Daren, Chen Xuyi
    2023, 27 (6):  890-896.  doi: 10.12307/2023.248
    Abstract ( 433 )   PDF (3884KB) ( 57 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: With the increasing number of traffic accidents, fall injuries, and sports injuries,  traumatic spinal cord injury has become the primary disease that threatens spinal cord health. 
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of collagen/silk fibroin scaffold combined with neural stem cells in the treatment of traumatic spinal cord injury.
    METHODS:  (1) Collagen and silk fibroin raw materials were extracted separately and mixed in a mass ratio of 2:4. Collagen/silk fibroin scaffold was prepared by vacuum freeze-drying. Passage 3 GFP mouse neural stem cells were seeded on collagen/silk fibroin scaffolds. Neural stem cell growth was observed under light microscope and scanning electron microscope. (2) Totally 40 adult SD rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=8 per group). The normal group did not receive any treatment. In the model group, a T10 segment spinal cord defect model was established. In the stem cell group, neural stem cells were injected into the spinal cord defect. Collagen/silk fibroin scaffolds were implanted at the spinal cord defect site in the scaffold group. Collagen/silk fibroin scaffolds seeded with neural stem cells were implanted at the spinal cord defect site of the combination group. Open field test BBB score and slope test were performed every week after operation. Evoked potential detection, hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunofluorescence staining were conducted to evaluate the recovery of traumatic spinal cord injury rats.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy showed that the collagen/silk fibroin scaffolds were favorable for the adhesion, extension and differentiation of neural stem cells. (2) Open field test BBB score and slope test results demonstrated that the motor function of the rats in each spinal cord injury group recovered to different degrees with the prolongation of time. The speed and degree of motor function recovery of the rats in each treatment group were better than those in the model group, and the motor function recovery of the rats in the combination group was the best. At 8 weeks after operation, the detection results of latency and amplitude of motor evoked potentials and somatosensory evoked potentials of rats in each treatment group were better than those in the model group after spinal cord injury (P < 0.05). The detection results of the combination group were better than those of the stem cell group and the scaffold group (P < 0.05). At 8 weeks after operation, hematoxylin-eosin staining demonstrated that the repair effect of the injured spinal cord in the model group was the worst and the repair effect of the combination group was the best. Immunofluorescence staining exhibited that the number of neurofilament protein-positive cells at the spinal cord injury site of the rats in the model group was the least, and the number of neurofilament protein-positive cells in each treatment group was more than that in the model group, among which the number of the combination group was the most. (3) Collagen/silk fibroin scaffold combined with neural stem cells has a certain effect on the improvement of the function of both lower limbs and the repair of spinal cord tissue in rats with traumatic spinal cord injury.
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    Rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and the expression of related factors
    Ke Weiqiang, Chen Xianghui, Chen Xiaoling, Meng Jie, Ma Yanlin
    2023, 27 (6):  915-920.  doi: 10.12307/2023.244
    Abstract ( 430 )   PDF (1138KB) ( 33 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: At present, there are many clinical reports of rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, but its mechanism is not very clear.  
    OBJECTIVE: To compare and analyze the effects of rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and rituximab in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and changes in the levels of related factors.
    METHODS:  96 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma were selected, including 62 males and 34 females, aged 20-75 years. Among them, 48 cases were treated with rituximab combined chemotherapy (control group), and the other 48 cases were treated with rituximab combined chemotherapy and autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (trial group). The clinical efficacy and adverse reactions of the two groups were compared. The survival time of the patients was followed up and recorded. Before treatment, after 6 cycles of chemotherapy and 6 months after transplantation, the serum vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor and interleukin-17 levels were detected in both groups.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Adequate peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cells were collected in the experimental group. The number of CD34+cells transfused back was (3.6±0.6)×106/kg. After transfusion, the time of neutrophil implantation was (11.1±1.2) days, and the time of platelet implantation was (12.3±2.4) days. (2) The effective rate of treatment in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (81%, 56%, P < 0.05). (3) From the beginning of definite diagnosis to the end of follow-up, the survival rate was 79% and the progression-free survival rate was 50% in the trial group. The survival rate was 56% and the progression-free survival rate was 31% in the control group. The difference in survival rate and progression-free survival rate between the two groups was significant (P < 0.05). (4) There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P > 0.05). (5) There was no significant difference in the levels of three kinds of cytokines between the two groups before treatment and after 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Compared with before treatment, the levels of interleukin-17 increased (P < 0.05), and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor decreased after 6 cycles of chemotherapy (P < 0.05). Compared with that after 6 cycles of chemotherapy, the level of interleukin-17 in the trial group increased 6 months after transplantation (P < 0.05), and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor decreased (P < 0.05), and there was no significant change in the levels of three kinds of cytokines in the control group (P < 0.05). (6) It is concluded that rituximab combined with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation can improve the survival of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of interleukin 17, vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor levels.
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    Effect and mechanism of different administration routes of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of tree shrews with osteoporotic fracture
    Huang Guijiang, Ji Yuwei, Zhao Xin, Yang Yi, Zhao Yulan, Wang Peijin, Tang Wei, Jiao Jianlin
    2023, 27 (6):  909-914.  doi: 10.12307/2023.259
    Abstract ( 402 )   PDF (1889KB) ( 23 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: At present, human placental mesenchymal stem cells are rarely used in bone tissue engineering research, and the use of human placental mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of osteoporotic fractures is likely to open new horizons for their therapeutic methods.  
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the mechanism of human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of tree shrews with osteoporotic fracture, and the effect of different drug delivery methods on the efficacy of tree shrews with osteoporotic fracture.
    METHODS:  Bilateral ovaries and uterus were removed from female tree shrews to simulate postmenopausal osteoporosis, and they were naturally fed for 180 days. The osteoporotic fracture tree shrew model was established by performing a right femoral fracture. The 24 tree shrews with osteoporotic fracture were randomly divided into four groups. We adjusted the concentration of the human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells to 1×109 L-1. In the tail vein injection group, human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells were injected with 1 mL in the tail vein. In the tail vein combined with fracture injection group, human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells were injected with 0.5 mL in the tail vein and 0.5 mL at the fracture site. In the tail vein combined with intraperitoneal injection group, human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells were injected with 0.5 mL in the enterocoelia and 0.5 mL in the tail vein. In the model group, 1 mL physiological saline was injected through tail vein. From the 3rd day after the fracture, tree shrews were injected once a week and three times in a row. Eight weeks after the last treatment, bone mineral density was tested in tree shrews of each group. Three-point bone biomechanics and hematoxylin-eosin staining experiments were performed on the femurs of tree shrews in each group. The expression levels of osteocalcin, estrogen, bone alkaline phosphatase and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase were measured by ELISA in all groups. The mRNA expression levels of bone morphogenetic protein-2, osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand were measured by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Eight weeks after the last treatment, compared with the model group, the other three groups showed increased bone mineral density, maximum load, structural stiffness and energy absorption, with tail vein injection group showed the most significant increase. (2) Serum estrogen, bone alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin expression levels in tail vein injection group, tail vein combined with fracture injection group, and tail vein combined with intraperitoneal injection group increased significantly compared with the model group. Serum tartrate resistant acid phosphatase levels decreased significantly in the tail vein injection group, tail vein combined with fracture injection group, and tail vein combined with intraperitoneal injection group compared with the model group. These serum detection results showed the most obvious improvement in tail vein injection group. (3) Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed significant improvement of pathological changes in tail vein injection group and tail vein combined with fracture injection group. (4) The expression level of osteoprotegerin and bone morphogenetic protein-2 mRNA in tail vein injection group, tail vein combined with fracture injection group, and tail vein combined with intraperitoneal injection group increased to varying degrees compared with model group; the tail vein combined with fracture injection group had the highest level. (5) The expression level of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand mRNA in tail vein injection group, tail vein combined with fracture injection group, and tail vein combined with intraperitoneal injection group decreased to different degrees compared with model group, with tail vein combined with fracture injection group having the lowest level. (6) It is concluded that human placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation can effectively improve the symptom of tree shrews with osteoporotic fracture, increase bone formation indexes such as bone alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin and osteoprotegerin, decrease bone resorption indexes such as tartrate resistant acid phosphatase and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand, and improve bone mineral density and bone biomechanics of tree shrews. Tail vein injection group had the best results for systemic treatment and tail vein combined with fracture injection group showed better results for treatment at the fracture site.
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    Application potential of adipose-derived stem cells in female pelvic floor dysfunction diseases
    Bai Siqi, Xiao Zhen, Liu Jing
    2023, 27 (6):  921-927.  doi: 10.12307/2023.301
    Abstract ( 515 )   PDF (1228KB) ( 37 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: The incidence of pelvic floor dysfunctions is increasing year by year, and the existing treatment methods have disadvantages in curative effect. Stem cell therapy has a great potential in the treatment of many diseases. As seed cells for stem cell therapy, adipose-derived stem cells have become one of the alternative cell types with the unique advantages of rich sources, convenient acquisition, high proliferative activity, multi-directional differentiation, low immunogenicity, easy culture in vitro and avoiding many ethical problems.  
    OBJECTIVE: To discuss the application potential of adipose-derived stem cells in female pelvic floor disorders, especially urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence according to the characteristics, advantages and existing research of adipose-derived stem cells.
    METHODS:  The 363 related articles were searched on CNKI, Wanfang database, VIP database and PubMed database with “stem cells, adipose-derived stem cells, pelvic floor dysfunction diseases, stress urinary incontinence, anal incontinence” as the search terms. Through screening and sorting, the articles unrelated to the research contents, repetitive studies and prematurely published articles were excluded, and 55 articles were finally retained for review.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Adipose-derived stem cells are expected to provide a new breakthrough for the treatment of pelvic floor disorders according to their convenient access, rapid self-renewal, low immunogenicity, high proliferation rate, and the potential of multi-lineage differentiation. However, there are still some problems to be solved in the process of clinical transformation, such as the lack of standardized procedures and norms for stem cell acquisition, culture, transplantation and post-transplantation monitoring as well as the existing research due to small sample size, short follow-up time and other problems. Adipose-derived stem cells in the future treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions will have both opportunities and challenges.
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    Acquisition and application of ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells
    Zhang Qijian, Xu Ximing
    2023, 27 (6):  928-934.  doi: 10.12307/2023.309
    Abstract ( 516 )   PDF (1268KB) ( 44 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells are a kind of adult stem cells, which are easy to obtain and abundant in source, and play an important role in tissue repair and immune regulation.  
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the latest progress in the acquisition and application of ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells.
    METHODS:  Web of Science was searched with the key words of “ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells, stem cell therapy, spinal cord injury, neurodegenerative disease, sepsis”. The indexes were original studies and reviews. The retrieval period was from the establishment of the database to 2021. Totally 85 relevant articles were screened out and analyzed and summarized with the document tracing method.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells are abundant and easy to obtain, and can be derived from dental tissue, nasal mucosa, and corneal tissue. Similar to mesoderm mesenchymal stem cells, they have the ability of multi-line differentiation and immunomodulatory function. (2) Epidermal mesenchymal stem cells share homology with dental tissue and neural tissue. Ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells have better ability of ligaments and nervous tissue differentiation, so they have unique advantages in dental tissue repair, spinal cord injury repair, neurodegenerative disease treatment and so on, so they have a very broad application prospect. (3) Immunomodulatory function of ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells also cannot be ignored. There is only a small amount of literature reports applied to sepsis and other immune diseases, but studies found that its immune regulation mechanism is same as mesoderm mesenchymal stem cells. In the meanwhile, the acquisition of ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells is less invasive; therefore, ectoderm mesenchymal stem cells have excellent prospects of clinical application.
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    Schwann cell-derived exosomes promote the repair and regeneration of injured peripheral nerves
    Yuan Bo, Xie Lide, Fu Xiumei
    2023, 27 (6):  935-940.  doi: 10.12307/2023.266
    Abstract ( 477 )   PDF (1311KB) ( 30 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve injury is a common clinical trauma. At present, the end-to-end anastomosis was commonly used in the treatment of short-distance nerve injury, whereas graft bridging was required in the long-distance nerve injury. Schwann cell-derived exosomes could elevate neuronal survival, improve the regeneration microenvironment, promote axonal regeneration, and have a good application prospect in the field of peripheral nerve injury and repair.  
    OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress of Schwann cell-derived exosomes in repair and regeneration after peripheral nerve injury.
    METHODS:  The relevant articles published from 2000 to 2022 were searched from PubMed, Wanfang, and CNKI databases by computer. The Chinese and English search terms were “Schwann cell, exosomes, vesicles, peripheral nerve, sciatic nerve”. The preliminary searched articles were screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and a total of 52 articles were included for in-depth analysis.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The proliferation and migration of Schwann cells play an important role in the repair and regeneration after peripheral nerve injury. Schwann cells could promote the regeneration and repair of injured peripheral nerves through a variety of signal transduction pathways. (2) Exosomes could mediate intercellular communication by transferring bioactive substances to maintain normal physiological processes, which had a great potential in the treatment of peripheral nervous system damage. (3) Schwann cell-derived exosomes played a role in promoting regeneration and repair of peripheral nerve injury by participating in axon regeneration and growth regulation so as to provide a new therapeutic strategy for peripheral nerve injury.
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    Bibliometric and visualized analysis of researches on gastric cancer stem cells
    Yin Shuoxin, Zhang Tao, Wang Shuping, Lu Xin, Huang Xuping, Yin Mengying, Yang Yuwei, Yuan Bingmao, Mao Zhihua, Chen Yuanneng
    2023, 27 (6):  941-947.  doi: 10.12307/2023.229
    Abstract ( 462 )   PDF (1949KB) ( 98 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer stem cells are a hot research topic in the medical field in recent years. Gastric cancer stem cells can interfere with the occurrence, metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance of gastric cancer. In theory, gastric cancer stem cells are the most promising candidate targets for the treatment of gastric cancer in the future. Therefore, studying the action mechanism of gastric cancer stem cells can not only elucidate the occurrence and development of gastric cancer, but also help to find new effective molecular targets, and has broad application prospects.
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the hot spots and development trends of gastric cancer stem cells and to provide a reference for scientific researchers in related fields based on bibliometric and visualized analysis. 
    METHODS:  CiteSpace was employed to conduct the visualized analysis of annual publications, authors, countries, journals, citations and keywords of the related papers from 2011 to 2021 in the Web of Science Core Collection. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 2 832 papers were included for analysis after screening. The annual publications increased rapidly, and the United States and China were the top contributors. Although the total number of papers published by Chinese researchers ranked the first in the world, the papers had low centrality and citation frequency, which indicated low quality and weak academic influence. Oncotarget was the journal with the largest number of articles published, and Oncology Letters was the journal with the largest number of articles published by Chinese researchers. Gastric cancer stem cells presented the trend of interdisciplinary development. The current studies about gastric cancer stem cells mainly focused on epithelial-mesenchymal transition; effect on biological function of gastric cancer cells and self-renewal. The plasticity of gastric cancer stem cells, the relationship with fatty acid oxidation and vascular endothelial growth factor, and the regulation of non-coding RNA on gastric cancer stem cells may be the focus of current and future research. The research of gastric cancer stem cells is currently in a rapid rise stage. In recent years, the action mechanism of gastric cancer stem cells is gradually clear. The treatment of gastric cancer stem cells will be a new targeted therapy strategy for gastric cancer patients in the future.
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    Application of stem cells to skin anti-aging
    Xiong Juan, Guan Yalin, Yang Yutong, Wang Fan, Liu Zhongshan
    2023, 27 (6):  948-954.  doi: 10.12307/2023.239
    Abstract ( 661 )   PDF (1158KB) ( 154 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Due to the inevitability of skin aging, the increasing attention paid to skin aging induced by the improvement of living standard. These have brought strong market demand and research demand in the field of anti-aging.  
    OBJECTIVE: To review the research progress of skin aging and the application of stem cells to skin anti-aging, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the application and research of stem cells-related skin anti-aging.
    METHODS:  The articles about skin aging and skin anti-aging related to stem cells published from November 2016 to November 2021 were retrieved on PubMed and CNKI. Old and repetitive views were excluded and the retrieved articles were organized. A total of 91 articles were included for analysis.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The manifestations of skin aging were summarized, such as wrinkles, decreased elasticity, and thinning of epidermis. We summarized the factors of skin aging including endogenous and exogenous factors, as well as the mechanisms of skin aging including the change of proliferation and differentiation balance of epidermal stem cells, oxidative stress. We focused on the changes of epidermal stem cells in aging skin, including intracellular DNA damage and increased reactive oxygen species; proliferation and differentiation decreased, asymmetry and symmetrical division balance changed; changes in the ecological microenvironment; stem cell-immune cell signaling abnormalities. (2) The research and application of mesenchymal stem cells and stem cell derivatives in skin anti-aging are introduced, for example, subcutaneous injection of stem cells or their derivatives in animal experiments indicates the role of stem cells and their derivatives in skin anti-aging by observing the thickness of dermis, oxidative stress and elastic fibers. (3) The above studies have proven the effectiveness of stem cell-related skin anti-aging, with the specific mechanisms including: increasing cell proliferation, reducing reactive oxygen species level, and regulating gene expression.
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    Action mechanism and prospect of bone microvascular endothelial cells for treating femoral head necrosis
    Qin Yuxing, Ren Qiangui, Li Zilong, Quan Jiaxing, Shen Peifeng, Sun Tao, Wang Haoyu
    2023, 27 (6):  955-961.  doi: 10.12307/2023.279
    Abstract ( 419 )   PDF (1341KB) ( 23 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Femoral head necrosis brings a serious burden to patients and the society. The existing hypotheses cannot fully explain the mechanism of the femoral head necrosis. However, there is no doubt that the dysfunction of bone microcirculation system is its pathological basis. Given the importance of microcirculation during femoral head necrosis, recent studies indicate that bone microvascular endothelial cell injury exerts a crucial effect on the pathogenesis of femoral head necrosis.  
    OBJECTIVE: To analyze the action mechanism of bone microvascular endothelial cells for treatment of femoral head necrosis, and to focus on the prospect of improving microcirculation and promoting osteogenesis based on bone microvascular endothelial cells, so as to treat femoral head necrosis.
    METHODS: “Necrosis of femoral head; bone microvascular endothelial cells; microcirculation disorder; bone tissue engineering technology; microRNAs” were used as Chinese and English keywords. Totally 220 related articles were obtained by searching on CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), Wanfang database, and PubMed database. Insufficient timeliness, vague conclusions, and repetitive articles were excluded by reading the titles, abstracts and part of the content. Finally, 63 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included for review.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The impaired angiogenesis, abnormal apoptosis, thrombosis and fat embolism caused by the dysfunction of bone microvascular endothelial cells are all involved in the occurrence and development of avascular necrosis of the femoral head. (2) Traditional Chinese medicine, bone tissue engineering technology, transfection-based method, and microRNAs can be employed to prevent and treat avascular necrosis of the femoral head by promoting angiogenesis, suppressing apoptosis and vascular embolism. (3) Combined transplantation of microvascular endothelial cells and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells is one of the most promising strategies for the treatment of femoral head necrosis, but the optimal ratio between co-grafts and scaffolds with good biocompatibility and cultured cells needs further research. (4) For gene transfection, the transcriptional regulation mechanism of target gene in host cells has not been fully studied. In addition, there are few related clinical trials, and the therapeutic effect needs to be further verified.
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    Advances and problems in cell-free treatment of diabetic skin chronic wounds
    Xu Qijing, Yang Yichun, Lei Wei, Yang Ying, Yu Jiang, Xia Tingting, Zhang Meng, Zhang Tao, Zhang Qian
    2023, 27 (6):  962-969.  doi: 10.12307/2023.241
    Abstract ( 551 )   PDF (1415KB) ( 39 )   Save
    BACKGROUND: Diabetic skin ulcer is one of the refractory complications of diabetes mellitus and cannot be cured after occurrence. Previous studies have found that mesenchymal stem cells have the ability of tissue repair and inflammatory immune regulation. Relevant studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells may secrete various cytokines and exosomes mainly through the paracrine effect and play a role in tissue and wound repair, and. Therefore, the use of growth factors, mesenchymal stem cell conditioned mediums and exosomes in the treatment of chronic diabetic skin wounds can have a positive effect on wound healing through direct or indirect mechanisms.  
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the related mechanisms and application effects of growth factors, conditioned mediums and exosomes on promoting diabetic skin chronic wound repair, as well as the limitations of cell-free therapy in current research.
    METHODS:  The first author searched relevant articles published from January 2005 to February 2022 on PubMed and Web of Science. The key words were “diabetes, diabetic foot, diabetic foot ulcers, chronic wound, mesenchymal stem cells, cell-free, exosomes, growth factors, conditioned mediums, wound healing, tissue repair, angiogenesis, regeneration, biomaterial ” in English. After reading, screening and sorting, the articles consistent with the content of the review were collected. Finally, 75 articles were selected for review.  
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Mesenchymal stem cell conditioned mediums, exosomes and growth factors can improve the local microenvironment and promote the healing of chronic wounds through different mechanisms. (2) The combination of conditioned mediums, exosomes and growth factors with emerging tissue engineering biological materials (such as cell scaffolds and hydrogels) can make them play a stronger role in promoting chronic wound healing. (3) Cell-free therapy with conditioned medium of mesenchymal stem cells, exosomes and growth factors is a promising therapeutic strategy for promoting chronic wound healing. More research is needed to identify the mechanism of action in order to transfer from preclinical studies to clinical studies and ensure its safety in patients.
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    Meta-analysis of the value of exosomal miRNA for the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease
    Chen Guanting, Zhang Linqi, Li Qingru
    2023, 27 (6):  970-976.  doi: 10.12307/2023.286
    Abstract ( 485 )   PDF (6659KB) ( 36 )   Save
    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic significance of exosomal miRNA for chronic kidney disease by meta-analysis.
    METHODS:  The clinical research on the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease by exosomal miRNA published from the establishment of Wanfang, CNKI, China Biology Medicine disc, VIP, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase to May 2022 was searched by computer. After screening and extracting the data, the quality of the article was evaluated through the quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies-2 in Review Manager 5.3. Meta-disc 1.4 software was used to analyze the heterogeneity of threshold/non threshold effects included in the literature, and calculate sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, area under the curve, and diagnostic odds ratio. StataMP 16.0 software was used to analyze sensitivity, heterogeneity, and publication bias.  
    RESULTS: A total of six articles were included. Meta-analysis results exhibited that the Spearman correlation coefficient was -0.603 (P=0.038 < 0.05), and there was a threshold effect in this study. The diagnostic odds ratio Cochran-Q was 67.85 (P < 0.01), indicating that there was heterogeneity caused by non threshold effect in this study, and the effect size was pooled by using random effect model. The pooled sensitivity was 0.81 (0.78-0.84), pooled specificity 0.81(0.76-0.85), pooled positive likelihood ratio 3.32(1.98-5.57), pooled negative likelihood ratio 0.30(0.19-0.48), pooled area under the curve=0.840 1, Q-index=0.771 9; pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 12.20(4.74-31.42). Publication bias was present at this study, and there was one inclusion with strong sensitivity (P=0.01 < 0.05).
    CONCLUSION:  Exosomal miRNA expression levels have great value and significance for the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease. However, due to the small number and heterogeneity of included studies, more clinical studies are needed to find out the optimal exosomal miRNA for diagnosing chronic kidney disease.
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    Mesenchymal stem cells for allergic rhinitis: a meta-analysis based on animal experiments
    Yan Le, Zhang Huiping, Dai Lintong
    2023, 27 (6):  977-984.  doi: 10.12307/2023.269
    Abstract ( 403 )   PDF (5185KB) ( 86 )   Save
    OBJECTIVE: Allergic rhinitis is a globally prevalent allergic disease that seriously affects people's quality of life and often has a poor clinical treatment effect. The effects of mesenchymal stem cells on allergic rhinitis animal models were systematically evaluated, hoping to provide inspiration for clinicians.
    METHODS:  Articles related to the treatment of allergic rhinitis mice with mesenchymal stem cells were retrieved from CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, Chinese biomedical literature database, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science. The retrieval time was from the establishment of the database to March 1, 2022. Data were independently extracted by two researchers. SYRCLE Animal Experiment Bias Risk Assessment table was used to evaluate the literature quality. Stata 16.0 was used for meta-analysis.  
    RESULTS: A total of 152 mice were included in 6 randomized controlled animal experiments, including 51 mice in stem cell group, 51 mice in blank control group, and 50 mice in animal model control group. The meta-analysis results demonstrated that the number of sneezes in stem cell group was significantly less than that in the animal model control group [SMD=-9.83, 95%CI(-17.45,-2.22), P=0.011]. The number of nose rubbing in stem cell group was significantly less than that in the animal model control group [SMD=-13.27, 95%CI(-25.04,-1.49), P=0.027]. Serum interleukin-4 level in stem cell group was significantly smaller than that in the animal model control group [SMD=-8.23, 95%CI(-11.28, -5.17), P=0]. Serum interleukin-6 level in stem cell group was significantly smaller than that in the animal model control group [SMD=-4.27, 95%CI(-5.43,-3.10), P=0.035]. Interleukin-10 level in the spleen in stem cell group was significantly higher than that in the animal model control group [SMD=25.63, 95%CI(17.92, 33.33), P=0]. Interleukin-6 level in the spleen in stem cell group was significantly lower than that in the animal model control group [SMD=-40.64, 95%CI(-80.16, -1.13), P=0].
    CONCLUSION: According to the included animal experiments, stem cells help to improve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, decrease serum interleukin-4 and interleukin-6 levels and spleen interleukin-6 level, and increase spleen levels of interleukin-10. Stem cells play an important role in allergic rhinitis, and clinical trials are expected to carefully evaluate their safety and efficacy in the future.
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