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Showing 33 results for Stem Cells
Maryam Khanehzad , Farid Abolhasani , Seyed Morteza Koruji , Iraj Ragerdi Kashani , Fereshteh Aliakbari ,
Volume 73, Issue 12 (3-2016)
Volume 73, Issue 12 (3-2016)
Abstract
Background: Spermatogenesis is a complex and highly organized process of proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) as a unique stem cell have the potential to self-renewal, differentiation and transmit genetic information to the next generation and play a vital role in maintaining fertility. Sertoli cells as the only somatic cells within the seminiferous epithelium play central roles in the formation of niche and balance between self-renewal and differentiation by secrete many growth factors. Given the importance and widespread use of SSCs, particularly in the treatment of infertility, the aim of this study was to create an optimal environment for the proliferation of SSCs. So we decided to study of undifferentiated (ID4) and differentiated (c-Kit) gene expression in SSCs followed by co-culture with Sertoli cells for a one-month.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted from November 2013 to December 2014 in Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, on immature NMRI mouse (6-3 days old). Initially, Sertoli cells and SSCs were isolated from neonates mouse testes during the two-step enzymatic digestion characteristics Sertoli cells with vimentin marker and SSCs with promyelocytic leukemia zinc-finger (PLZF) marker were confirmed. Then SSCs were cultured in two groups: co-culture with Sertoli and without co-culture (control). Undifferentiated (ID4) and differentiation (c-Kit) gene expression were evaluated by Real-time PCR technique.
Results: Spermatogonial stem cells purity was obtained 66.91% by flow cytometry. The relative expression levels of gene ID4 in co-culture group at the end of each week, compared to the control group showed a significant increase (P<0.05). While the expression of this gene significantly decreased in each group over time (P<0.05). The results of the comparison of the relative expression of c-Kit gene in co-culture group are indicated significant decrease than the control group at the end of each week (P<0.05). In addition, this gene expression was showed significant increase in each group individually over time (P<0.05) ID4 gene expression showed a significant (P<0.05) increase toward the control group, while in the expression of c-Kit was observed a significant (P<0.05) decrease compared with the control group at the end of each week.
Conclusion: According to the results of this study, co-culture with Sertoli cells maintains SSCs in the prolifration stage for long-term, so can be used to optimize the culture medium at the clinic.
Ali Hosseini Bereshneh , Danesh Soltani , Reza Roodbarani , Mohammad Hossein Modarressi ,
Volume 74, Issue 2 (5-2016)
Volume 74, Issue 2 (5-2016)
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated and multi pluripotent cells which can differentiate into a variety of mature cells and tissues such as nervous tissue, muscle tissue, epithelial tissue, skeletal tissue and etc. Stem cells from all different source have three unique features: 1) Proliferative capability: Stem cells are capable of self dividing and self renewing for long periods or more than six months at least that called immortalization. 2) Undifferentiated nature: It’s considered as one of the essential characteristics of stem cell, so it doesn't have any tissue-specific construction. 3) Differentiation to the different cells from all organs: This ability can Induced by tissue specific transcription factors. Because of that, they are so important in prevention and treatment of human disease. Depending on the sources from which they derive, they have different types which can be used to produce special cells and tissues. The most significant types of stem cells are; embryonic stem cells (ESCs) which are derived from embryos, adult stem cells (ASCs) which are derived from differentiated cells in a specific tissue, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSs) which are produced from adult differentiated cells that have been genetically reprogrammed to act resemble to an embryonic stem cell and cord blood stem cells which contains haematopoietic stem cells and derived from the umbilical cord after gestation. By providing a medium containing of special growth factor, it is possible to orientated stem cell differentiation pathway and gained certain cells from them. The important uses of stem cells includes damaged heart tissue cells improvements and bone tissue repairing, cancer treatment, damaged neurological and spinal tissue repairing, improving burns and injuries and the treatment of diabetes, infertility and spermatogenesis dysfunction. Furthermore, the application of them in gene therapy is an important issue in the modern medicine science due to the role of them in transferring gene into different cells. Today, this method have had considerable progress in the treatment of many disease. In this review study, some aspect of stem cells like types and characteristic, origin, derivation techniques, storage conditions and differentiation to target tissues, current clinical usage and their therapeutic capabilities will be discussed.
Leila Hosseinzadeh Anvar , Saeid Hosseini-Asl, Mohsen Sagha ,
Volume 74, Issue 5 (8-2016)
Volume 74, Issue 5 (8-2016)
Abstract
Background: Telomerase as an enzyme with reverse transcriptase activity has an essential role in telomere maintenance by adding a telomere repeat sequence to the 3' end of chromosome and is important for regulating of many processes in embryonic development including cell proliferation and differentiation. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) with a self-renewal capacity are cells that can differentiate into various germ layer derivatives including neural cells and cardiomyocytes, and undergo biological changes during long-term cultivation. Hence, the passage number in which the cells expanded seems to be very important for proliferating and differentiating. This study was aimed at investigating the relationship between the telomerase activity and the growth rate of (hUC-MSCs) at different passages.
Methods: This experimental study was performed in Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Iran, from March 2014 to December 2014. The umbilical cord samples were obtained from full-term neonate hospitalized in Alavi’s Hospital in Ardabil under sterile conditions. The umbilical vessels were clear off and the small pieces of the umbilical cord were cultured in Dulbecco's modified eagle's medium (DMEM) supplemented with 20% fetal bovine serum (FBS). Then, the hUC-MSCs were harvested from passage one to three to calculate the population doubling time (PDT) and extract proteins by using CHAPS lysis buffer. Finally, the telomerase activity of the cells at different passages was measured by telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) and qRT-TRAP assays.
Results: The hUC-MSCs population doubling time at passage from 1 to 3 were calculated as the average of 54.68±1.92, 55.03±1.71 and 69.41±2.54 hours, respectively, suggesting the higher cell passage number, the more extended PDT. The threshold cycles (CTs) for the telomerase activity also showed 30.58±0.51, 27.24±0.74 and 32.13±0.75 for the cell passage from one to three, respectively, representing the significant increasing in telomerase activity at passage two compared with the other passages (P= 0.021).
Conclusion: Analysis of the growth curve, PDT determination and measurement of telomerase activity of the human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells showed that the long-term cell culture can affect on the cell proliferation and the telomerase activity.
Mohammad Reza Ebadi , Mohammad Javad Fatemi , Farhad Hafezi , Mitra Niazi , Mohammad Ali Fatemi ,
Volume 74, Issue 7 (10-2016)
Volume 74, Issue 7 (10-2016)
Abstract
Background: In recent years the use of diced cartilage grafts in reconstructive surgery particulary rhinoplasty have been considered by most plastic surgeons. However, long-term resorption usually occurs. Stem cells are a powerful tool for reconstructive surgery to rebuild and maintain tissue with reduced complications. Since the adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can rebuild a wide variety of tissues such as skin, fat, bone and cartilage are used, this is a very good chance for cosmetic surgery. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of adipose-derived stem cells on the viability of diced cartilage grafts.
Methods: This interventional study was performed on May 2014 in animal laboratory of Hazrat Fatima Hospital on 10 New Zealand white male rabbits, weighing 2000-2500 grams, approximately 12 to 16 weeks of age. Stem cells was harvested from inguinal adipose tissue of each rabbits. After completely removing the skin and perichondrium, cartilage became divided into two equal pieces using a scalpel. Then place the ear amputation was restored by nylon 4 zero. After weighing cartilages, on either side of the center line on the back of each rabbits, left and right, subcutaneous pocket created equal weight and each piece of cartilage was placed in an envelope. Stem cells were injected in one side and the other side was control. The cartilage weights were recorded both before implantation and after explantation. Evaluation of living chondrocytes was conducted 12 weeks after implantation.
Results: The mean difference of cartilage weights was varied between two groups (intervention and control sides), So that the average was significantly higher in stem cell side than that in the control side (P= 0.021). The average number of live chondrocytes was significantly higher in the intervention side than the control side (P< 0.001).
Conclusion: Despite the unclear mechanism, these results suggest that adipose-derived stem cells can maintain the viability of diced cartilage. Because adipose-derived stem cells are autologous and easy to harvest, they can be use to improve the long-term outcomes of diced cartilage grafting.
Abbas Kazemi Ashtiani , Peyman Khoshnood , Mohammad Javad Fatemi , Seyed Jaber Mousavi , Seyed Aboozar Hoseini ,
Volume 74, Issue 10 (1-2017)
Volume 74, Issue 10 (1-2017)
Abstract
Background: The use of random flaps is one of the most common methods of reconstructive surgery because they are easy to use and quick to do. However, the absence of axial vessels especially in the distal areas can cause ischemia and loss of total or part of the flap. Different methods and systemic and topical medications have been recommended to prevent ischemia in random flaps. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood in random flap survival in rats.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted in Animal Laboratory of Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital in 2012. In this study twenty Sprague-Dawley male rats weighing approximately 300 to 350 g were selected and divided randomly into two groups. In both groups after anesthesia, a flap was created in the posterior part of each rat with a size of 2 x 6 cm. In the intervention group we injected stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood into the flap, and after eight days the effects on the survival of flaps were examined by digital photography and then pathological examination was performed.
Results: The mean of viable flap in the stem cell group was 6.57 cm2 and in control group 4.71 cm2. The minimum and maximum flap survival in the intervention group were 4.71 and 8.75, and the minimum and maximum flap survived in control group were 1.86 and 7.77. This difference was significant and showed that the viable parts of flap were more in the intervention group (P=0.49). In pathologic examinations epidermal and muscle necrosis of the skin were reported in 3 cases in the intervention group and 5 cases in control group.
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Conclusion: This study showed that cord blood stem cells can be effective somehow in reducing ischemia and increasing random flap survival. However, similar studies are recommended in order to compare the results of this drug and placebo or other proven effective drugs. |
Mohsen Sheykhhasan , Mohsen Nikbakht , Mahdieh Ghiasi ,
Volume 74, Issue 11 (2-2017)
Volume 74, Issue 11 (2-2017)
Abstract
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Intervertebral disks (IVD) acts as shock absorber between each of the vertebrae in the spinal column by keeping the vertebrae separated when the shock caused by the action. They also serve to protect the nerves that run down the middle of the spine and intervertebral disks. The disks are made of fibrocartilaginous material. The outside of the disk is made of a strong material called the annulus fibrosus. Inside this protective covering is a jelly-like substance known as mucoprotein gel. This interior is known as the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus pulposus consists of large vacuolated notochord cells, small chondrocyte-like cells, collagen fibrils, and aggrecan, a proteoglycan that aggregates by binding to hyaluronan. Attached to each aggrecan molecule are glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains of chondroitin sulfate and keratan sulfate. Intervertebral disks degeneration is frequently associated with low back and neck pain, which accounts as a disability. Despite the known outcomes of the Intervertebral disks degeneration cascade, the treatment of IVD degeneration is limited in that available conservative and surgical treatments do not reverse the pathology or restore the IVD tissue. Regenerative medicine for IVD degeneration, by injection of Intervertebral disks cells, chondrocytes or stem cells, has been extensively studied in the past decade in various animal models of induced IVD degeneration, and has progressed to clinical trials in the treatment of various spinal disease. Despite preliminary results showing positive effects of cell-injection strategies for IVD regeneration, detailed basic research on Intervertebral disks cells and their niche demonstrates that transplanted cells are unable to survive and adapt in the avascular niche of the IVD. For this therapeutic strategy to succeed, the indications for its use and the patients who would benefit need to be better defined. To surmount these obstacles, the solution will be identified only by focused research, both in the laboratory and in the clinic. In present paper, the potential utilization of different adult stem cells for intervertebral disc regeneration has been reported. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, adipose tissue derived stem cells, synovial stem cells and committed IVD cells have been studied for this purpose either in vitro or in vivo. |
Mohammd Javad Fatemi , Shirin Chehroudi , Tooran Bagheri , Sahar Saleh , Amir Atashi , Mohsen Saberi , Seyed Aboozar Hoseini , Shirin Araghi ,
Volume 74, Issue 12 (3-2017)
Volume 74, Issue 12 (3-2017)
Abstract
Background: Acute and chronic wound healing has always been problematic. Stem cells with or without the scaffold carrying these cells have been proposed as new methods in the treatment of wounds. In this case study we have tried to examine the effect of scaffold made of polyether sulfone (PES) alone, with stem cells and along with stem cell and growth factor on wound healing in rats.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted in Animal Laboratory of Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital in 2012. In this study, 48 rats were randomly divided into four groups. A wound created on the back of each rat at the size of 3×3 cm. The surface of the wound in the first group is covered with PES seeded with adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) and growth factor (GF), in the second group with polyether Sulfone seeded with ASC, in the third group only with PEWS, and in the fourth group (control) with Vaseline gauze. On 20th and 35th days, the surface of the wound was assessed by photography in order to understand the process of healing. In addition, on days 20 and 45, the histopathology characteristics of the samples were studied with a biopsy of the wounds.
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Results: The Results of wound healing in the control group was better than the other groups and its statistical difference between others was meaningful. (P=0.008, P=0.013, P=0.001) On day 20, by examining histopathological characteristics including epithelialization, the number of inflammatory cells, the amount of angiogenesis and collagen synthesis in control group, we gained better results. (P=0.000), But on day 45, the results in different parameters were not equal. Conclusion: polyether sulfone scaffold alone or with adipose-derived stem cells couldn’t improve the process of wound healing. Also adding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) did not change the results significantly. |
Homa Mohseni Kouchesfahani , Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough , Jafar Ai , Azam Rahimi ,
Volume 74, Issue 12 (3-2017)
Volume 74, Issue 12 (3-2017)
Abstract
Background: Small molecule Purmorphamin (PMA) is the agonist of smoothened protein in Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway. Effect of purmorphamin small molecule on differentiation of mesenchymal cells into bone tissue has been studied previously. Use of Shh causes progression of neural differentiation, and the differentiated cells express specific neural markers. Neurofilament (NF) and acetylcholine esterase (Chat) are specific markers of motor neurons and their expression in differentiated cells indicates their conversion into motor neurons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of PMA to differentiate the human endometrial stem cells (hEnSCs) into motor neurons.
Methods: This analytical study was done in Tehran University of Medical Sciences laboratory on September of 2015. In this study hEnSCs were enzymatically extracted from endometrial tissue. After third passages, the flow cytometry was done for mesenchymal stem cells markers. The mesenchymal stem cells were divided into control and differentiated groups. FBS 10%+DMEM/F12 was added to the culture medium of control group and the differentiating group was treated with differentiating medium containing N2, PMA, DMEM/F12, FBS, B27, IBMX, 2ME, FGF2, RA, BDNF. After 21 days immunocytochemistry (ICC) test was done for the expression of NF and Chat proteins and Real-time PCR analysis for expression of neural markers such as NF, Chat, Nestin and GFAP (as glial marker) at mRNA level.
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Results: The flow cytometry analysis showed that hEnSCs were positive for mesenchymal markers CD90, CD105 and CD146 and negative for endothelial marker CD31, and hematopoietic marker CD34. The immunocytochemistry and Real time-PCR results showed that the cells treated with PMA expressed motor neuron markers of NF and Chat. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, it can be concluded that small molecule PMA has the potency to induce the differentiation of hEnSCs into neural cells, specifically motor neurons by activating Shh signaling pathway. |
Mohsen Sheykhhasan , Mahdieh Ghiasi ,
Volume 75, Issue 9 (12-2017)
Volume 75, Issue 9 (12-2017)
Abstract
Stem cells are undifferentiated biological cells that can differentiate into more specialized cells and divide (through mitosis) to produce more stem cells (self-renew). In mammals, there are two broad types of stem cells: embryonic stem cells, which are isolated from the inner cell mass of blastocysts, and adult stem cells, which are found in various tissues. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that are called as one of the most adult stem cells. Due to their highly proliferative potential and their suitable self-renewal capacity, these cells have provided a powerful and promising source for use in the field of regenerative medicine. Also, mesenchymal stem cells are known for their important properties involving multilineage differentiation potential, trophic factor secretion and localization along various organs and tissues. So that MSCs can differentiate into a variety of cell lineages, including: Osteoblasts (bone cells), chondrocytes (cartilage cells), adipocytes (fat cells), myocytes (muscle cells), hepatocytes (liver cells) and endothelial cells. Efficacy of differentiated MSCs to regenerate cells in the injured tissues requires the ability to maintain the differentiation toward the desired cell fate. Since MSCs represent an attractive source for autologous transplantation, cellular and molecular signaling pathways and micro-environmental changes have been studied in order to understand the role of cytokines, chemokines, and transcription factors on the differentiation of MSCs. The differentiation of MSC into a mesenchymal lineage is genetically manipulated and promoted by specific transcription factors associated with a particular cell lineage. Recent studies have explored the integration of transcription factors, including Runx2, Sox9, PPARγ, MyoD, GATA4, and GATA6 in the differentiation of MSCs. Therefore, the overexpression of a single transcription factor in MSCs may promote trans-differentiation into specific cell lineage, which can be used for treatment of some diseases. In this review, we critically discussed and evaluated the role of transcription factors and related signaling pathways that affect the differentiation of MSCs toward adipocytes, chondrocytes, osteocytes, skeletal muscle cells, cardiomyocytes, and smooth muscle cells.
Mohsen Sheykhhasan , Mahdieh Sadat Ghiasi ,
Volume 76, Issue 5 (8-2018)
Volume 76, Issue 5 (8-2018)
Abstract
The cartilage is a connective tissue that, due to the strength of its extracellular matrix, allows the tissue to tolerate mechanical stress without undergoing permanent deformation. It is responsible for the support of soft tissues and due to its smooth surface and elasticity, gives the joints the ability to slip and bend. excessive weight, excessive activity, or trauma can all cause cartilage to injury. The injury can lead to swelling, pain and varying degrees of mobility loss. The process of repairing musculoskeletal (orthopedic) injuries has led to problems in the medical field, which can be attributed to the inherent weakness of adult cartilage tissue. Therefore, this necessitates research focused on the development of a new restructuring strategy by combining chondrocytes or stem cells with scaffolds and growth factors to address these problems. Correspondingly, the recent tissue engineering strategies strongly support the simultaneous use of stem cells, scaffolds and growth factors. It has also been observed that due to the relatively low proliferation of transplanted chondrocytes, new cartilage models construction have examined the use of adipose-derived stem cells. Mature adipose tissue is produced as an important source of multi-functional stem cells that can be easily separated from the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) by adipose liposuction digestion. The adipose-derived stem cells are easily accessible without any serious complications and have the power to differentiate into several cell lines, including chondrocytes as well as, they evidence self-renewal when trapped in gel scaffolds such as collagen. Also, recent studies demonstrate some of the mechanisms involved in the process of making cartilage of adipose-derived stem cells in vitro and their restorative ability in bio-engineered scaffolds in the presence of growth factors. In addition, the important role of non-encoding mRNA molecules (miRNAs) has been identified in the process of chondrogenic differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells. Furthermore, in several studies, the effect of several miRNAs has been confirmed on the regulation of the cartilage differentiation of the adipose-derived stem cells and has also been associated with effective results. In this article, we will present an overview of the advance in adipose-derived stem cells application in cartilage regeneration.
Mohammad Moradi , Kamran Atarodi , Mahshid Mohammadipour , Kamran Mousavi Hosseini ,
Volume 76, Issue 6 (9-2018)
Volume 76, Issue 6 (9-2018)
Abstract
Background: Thrombopoietin (TPO) is an important cytokine that has a critical role in regulating hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) proliferation and megakaryocyte differentiation. Because of scares amount of this protein in human plasma, in many biotechnological centers around the world, recombinant production of this protein has been carried out. This study was aiming to gene cloning and expression of recombinant thrombopoietin.
Methods: This research is an experimental laboratory study carried out in Blood Transfusion Research Center, Tehran, Iran, from July 2016 to August 2017. At the beginning HepG2 cell line was cultured and RNA extraction was performed. Extracted RNA was used as template for cDNA synthesis and subsequently the synthesized cDNA was adopted to isolate TPO gene through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) reaction using designed primers. After isolating the TPO sequence from HepG2 cell line, the designated sequence was inserted into pET32 vectors. Recombinant plasmid was amplified by meriting from DH5α replicating system. The amplified plasmids were sequenced via chain termination method. Next step was transforming the recombinant plasmid into Rosetta-gami bacteria to express the recombinant protein. In order to induce protein expression, an appropriate amount of isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) was added to growth media, then bacterial lysate of expression host was prepared and assayed via polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting test.
Results: After sequencing of recombinant plasmid, it was confirmed that TPO sequence has been successfully colonized in adopted vector. Subsequent to induction of recombinant protein, total cell protein analysis affirmed that recombinant protein has been expressed in its soluble form at cytoplasmic condition. Location of expected recombinant protein band on polyacrylamide gel and reaction of recombinant protein with His-tag monoclonal antibody at western blotting was asserting that expressed protein is the one of interest.
Conclusion: Rosetta-gami bacteria has capability of expressing recombinant thrombopoietin in its soluble form. By harnessing this method of recombinant protein expression, it would be possible to take advantage of high throughout bacterial expression system which would not produce inclusion body and its product doesn’t need further processing and refolding.
Methods: This research is an experimental laboratory study carried out in Blood Transfusion Research Center, Tehran, Iran, from July 2016 to August 2017. At the beginning HepG2 cell line was cultured and RNA extraction was performed. Extracted RNA was used as template for cDNA synthesis and subsequently the synthesized cDNA was adopted to isolate TPO gene through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) reaction using designed primers. After isolating the TPO sequence from HepG2 cell line, the designated sequence was inserted into pET32 vectors. Recombinant plasmid was amplified by meriting from DH5α replicating system. The amplified plasmids were sequenced via chain termination method. Next step was transforming the recombinant plasmid into Rosetta-gami bacteria to express the recombinant protein. In order to induce protein expression, an appropriate amount of isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) was added to growth media, then bacterial lysate of expression host was prepared and assayed via polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting test.
Results: After sequencing of recombinant plasmid, it was confirmed that TPO sequence has been successfully colonized in adopted vector. Subsequent to induction of recombinant protein, total cell protein analysis affirmed that recombinant protein has been expressed in its soluble form at cytoplasmic condition. Location of expected recombinant protein band on polyacrylamide gel and reaction of recombinant protein with His-tag monoclonal antibody at western blotting was asserting that expressed protein is the one of interest.
Conclusion: Rosetta-gami bacteria has capability of expressing recombinant thrombopoietin in its soluble form. By harnessing this method of recombinant protein expression, it would be possible to take advantage of high throughout bacterial expression system which would not produce inclusion body and its product doesn’t need further processing and refolding.
Somayeh Niknazar , Leila Simani , Hassan Peyvandi , Ali Asghar Peyvandi ,
Volume 77, Issue 8 (11-2019)
Volume 77, Issue 8 (11-2019)
Abstract
The mammalian cochlea is a highly complex structure which contains several cells, including sensory receptor or hair cells. The main function of the cochlear hair cells is to convert the mechanical vibrations of the sound into electrical signals, then these signals travel to the brain along the auditory nerve. Auditory hair cells in some amphibians, reptiles, fish, and birds can regenerate or replace by new cells, but irreversible damage to the mammalian hair cells are not being replaced through differentiation of the internal epithelial cells in the inner ear. Indeed, mammalian auditory hair cells do not spontaneously repair or regenerate after development. Sometimes, functions of damaged hair cells may be restored, but in most cases, there is no such possibility and permanent hearing loss occurs. Several factors such as chronic ear infections, genetic disorders, drug abuse, acoustic trauma and aging can damage the cochlea, resulting in permanent hearing loss. More than 250 million people in the world have disabling hearing impairment. Deafness is caused by damage to sensory hair cells or spiral ganglion neurons. Although hearing aids and cochlear implants were used for improvement of hearing loss, but they do not restore normal hearing. In addition, application of new biological approaches to induce auditory hair cell regeneration provides more comprehensive treatment for hearing loss. Cell therapy is considered a promising way in the treatment of several diseases such as Parkinson, diabetes and cardiac diseases. According to recent research, cell therapy can be useful in hair cell regeneration. Cell therapy is effective in hearing loss when stem cell differentiates into hair cells with appropriate morphology, electrical activity and capacity for suitable innervations with inner ear tissues. In fact, stem cell-derived neurons need to project neural processes toward the sensory hair cells and the cochlear nucleus neurons. In this regard, studies focus on methods in which hair cells can be provided from exogenous and endogenous stem cells. Here, we review cell therapy approaches in repair damaged cochlear hair cells, as well as imitations and problems of its clinical application.
Maryam Farzaneh, Mojgan Hosseini,
Volume 78, Issue 4 (7-2020)
Volume 78, Issue 4 (7-2020)
Abstract
Chick embryos are a great historical research model in basic and applied sciences. Along with other animal models, avian and specifically chicken embryo has been attended, as well. Avian fertilized eggs as a natural bioreactor are an efficient tool for producing recombinant proteins and vaccines manufacturing. Due to the limitations of birds' eggs for viral replication, avian stem cells culture technologies access to safe methods as well as large-scale production of a variety of human and animal vaccines. Chicken pluripotent stem cells present the unique property of self-renewal and the ability to generate differentiated progeny in all embryonic lineages such as ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm in vitro. For the first time, chicken embryonic stem cells (cESCs) derived from the blastodermal cells of stage X embryos in vitro. Chicken ESC provides a great model of early embryo and they are useful for gene manipulation, virus proliferation, and the generation of transgenic birds. In addition to blastodermal cells, pluripotent cell lines can be produced by reprogramming of chicken fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with transcription factors such as OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4, LIN28, and C-MYC that are well known to contribute to the reprogramming of somatic cells into an iPSCs. Similar to chicken ESCs, iPSCs have properties of unlimited self-renewal in vitro and the capacity for differentiation to all three embryonic germ layers. Chicken iPSCs have been a useful tool for the production of transgenic birds and viral vaccines. Despite the benefits and multiple applications of chicken pluripotent stem cells, the propagation of these cells is limited and some important challenges should be eliminated before their use in vaccine manufacturing. It is necessary to define the appropriate culture conditions for chicken pluripotent stem cells. For example, the presence of endogenous viruses in the avian species should be evaluated for human vaccine production. Currently, primary chicken fibroblast cells are still mainly used for vaccine production. This review covers the resources to achieve chicken derived cell lines for vaccine manufacturing.
Sona Zare, Rahim Ahmadi, Abdolreza Mohammadnia , Mohammad Ali Nilforouszadeh, Minoo Mahmoodi,
Volume 78, Issue 12 (3-2021)
Volume 78, Issue 12 (3-2021)
Abstract
Background: The application of mesenchymal stem cells in the healing of chronic wounds is one of the most challenging issues in cell therapy. The present study investigated the efficacy of intradermal injection of umbilical cord Wharton's Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells in diabetic wound healing using ultrasound imaging in an animal model.
Methods: During this experimental laboratory study that was performed in the Skin and Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences between October 2017 and October 2016, mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from umbilical cord Wharton's jelly of 10 neonates. The cells were passage. The differentiation potential of cells to osteocyte and adipose cells was evaluated. The expression of specific markers of mesenchymal stem cells was evaluated using flow cytometry. The viability and quality of cells were evaluated before transplantation. The diabetes model was developed by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin in 42 male Wistar rats. The animals were randomly divided into two groups: normal saline injection (control) and cell injection. Cell transplantation was performed intradermally. Skin thickness and density were assessed using ultrasound imaging on days 7, 14 and 21. Finally, the data were analyzed using a t-test and analysis of variance.
Methods: During this experimental laboratory study that was performed in the Skin and Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences between October 2017 and October 2016, mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from umbilical cord Wharton's jelly of 10 neonates. The cells were passage. The differentiation potential of cells to osteocyte and adipose cells was evaluated. The expression of specific markers of mesenchymal stem cells was evaluated using flow cytometry. The viability and quality of cells were evaluated before transplantation. The diabetes model was developed by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin in 42 male Wistar rats. The animals were randomly divided into two groups: normal saline injection (control) and cell injection. Cell transplantation was performed intradermally. Skin thickness and density were assessed using ultrasound imaging on days 7, 14 and 21. Finally, the data were analyzed using a t-test and analysis of variance.
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Results: Injection of mesenchymal stem cells caused faster closing of the wound. The results of biometric measurement of wound skin in rats showed that skin thickness and density on days 7, 14 and 21 in the Wharton jelly mesenchymal stem cell injection group had a significant increase compared to the control group.
Conclusion: The results of cell analysis showed that the isolated cells are the same as mesenchymal stem cells. The cells were of the required health and quality. Intradermal injection of mesenchymal stem cells in diabetic wound area caused faster healing in diabetic rats, according to which, such stem cells can be considered in cell therapy, especially in the field of chronic wound healing. |
Mina Sadat Naderi, Seyed Mehdi Tabaie, Mohammad Hasan Soheilifar, Majid Pornour,
Volume 79, Issue 1 (4-2021)
Volume 79, Issue 1 (4-2021)
Abstract
Background: Low-level lasers are used for various medical applications including wound healing and hair loss treatment. Cell Therapy using skin stem cells could be a novel approach to hair transplantation. However, there is no study on the effect of low-level laser on the hair follicle stem cells. So, in this study, we investigated the effect of low level laser irradiation on viability and ROS production in the hair follicle stem cells.
Methods: This study was performed in the cell culture laboratory of Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute in 2020 (June 2020 to February 2020). The hair follicle was isolated from the Safe Donor Area (SDA) using the 4mm punch method. In the laboratory, after separating the follicular units, the bulb region of each follicle was isolated via mechanical and enzymatic methods and cultured in FBS+F12-DMEM. Afterward, the stem cells were characterized via flow cytometry. The effect of low-level laser (685 nm) with different doses (1-20 J/cm2) was investigated on cell proliferation, viability and ROS production.
Methods: This study was performed in the cell culture laboratory of Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute in 2020 (June 2020 to February 2020). The hair follicle was isolated from the Safe Donor Area (SDA) using the 4mm punch method. In the laboratory, after separating the follicular units, the bulb region of each follicle was isolated via mechanical and enzymatic methods and cultured in FBS+F12-DMEM. Afterward, the stem cells were characterized via flow cytometry. The effect of low-level laser (685 nm) with different doses (1-20 J/cm2) was investigated on cell proliferation, viability and ROS production.
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Results: The stem cells were confirmed via flow cytometry and also morphological tests. The results indicated that the viability of the stem cells under laser irradiation was different. comparison of the cell viability before and after laser irradiation showed that the highest viability was related to 5 J/cm2 dose energy of laser irradiation. However, the viability of the cells in most dose energy of laser irradiation increased compared with the control group. Moreover, ROS production had a significant increase on 5 J/cm2 energy density of laser irradiation. We can be achieved better treatment in hair transplantation and hair follicle growth by knowing the effect of low-level laser irradiation on the viability of the hair follicle stem cells.
Conclusion: The result of this study could be useful in cell therapy and hair transplantation due to the improvement of cell viability and increase in ROS production under the influence of laser irradiation. |
Mohammad Ali Nilforoushzadeh, Sona Zare, Rahim Ahmadi, Nasrin Zoroufi, Mina Mahmoodipour,
Volume 79, Issue 3 (6-2021)
Volume 79, Issue 3 (6-2021)
Abstract
Background: The number of patients suffering from diabetic ulcers has been increased in recent years and the current therapies have faced failure. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Wharton’s jelly stem cells (WJMSCs) on the diabetic wound in an animal mode.
Methods: During this laboratory experimental study carried out in Skin and Stem Cells Research Center from March 2021 to November 2021, WJMSCs were isolated and their differentiation capability to osteocytes and adipose cells was assessed using the colorimetric method, and the expression of specific markers was evaluated using flow cytometry. 12 male Wistar rats weighing 200 to 250 grams were purchased from the Pasteur Institute and kept in the animal room in standard condition. Streptozotocin was used to induce diabetes in male Wistar rats. Animals were divided to control (normal saline injection: n=6) and WJMSCs injection (n=6) groups. Wounds with 0.8 cm in diameter were made on the back of rats. After subdermal injection of normal saline and WJMSCs, wound healing was evaluated 7, 14 and 21 days using the photography method. Data were analyzed using a t-test and analysis of variance.
Results: The results showed that the isolation process should be performed no later than a few hours after the cesarean section. Storing the sample for one day or more caused sample contamination leading to significant failure in cell proliferation and differentiation. WJMSCs were positive for specific mesenchymal stem cell markers (CD44, D73, CD90 and CD 105, and negative for CD45 and CD 34. They were capabale to differentiate into osteocytes and adipose cells and had a high viability rate (83.1%). Subdermal injection of WJMSCs in diabetic rats resulted in acceleration of diabetic wound healing compared with the control group.
| Conclusion: Subdermal injection of WJMSCs can effectively accelerate diabetic wound healing. According to which, applying Wharton’s jelly stem cells can be considered in cell therapy particularly in the field of diabetic wound healing. |
Mohsen Barouni , Zohreh Shaker, Zinab Shaker , Asma Sabermahani ,
Volume 80, Issue 10 (1-2023)
Volume 80, Issue 10 (1-2023)
Abstract
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Background: Cerebral palsy is a movement disorder syndrome in early childhood. Signs and symptoms vary among people and over time but include poor coordination, stiff muscles, and weak muscles. Some affected children can achieve near-normal adult lives with appropriate treatment. In recent years, transplantation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) has become a promising therapeutic strategy for CP. Every year, a lot of costs are spent on the treatment and management of this disease. The purpose of this study is to investigate the safety and effectiveness of this method on CP.
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Methods: This article is a systematic review. At first, a search strategy was written and performed in Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases(The search was conducted from March 14 to March 28, 2021), and the inclusion and exclusion criteria were determined. Study inclusion criteria: review studies, cohort studies, clinical trial studies (randomized and non-randomized), control case, and retrospective , exclusion criteria: non-English articles and studying on animals. After removing duplicate articles, two authors independently reviewed the studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements among the authors were resolved through discussion.
Findings: In total, 9236 articles were found in the initial search, after reading the titles, of 37 articles, 21 articles were selected in the abstract stage and 18 articles remained in the full-text stage. We finally found 18 articles that showed that using stem cell technology as a scientific method could improve sick patients’ quality of life and movement defects.
Conclusion: According to the available evidence and limited studies, stem cell technology can be safeand cost-effective in improving CP patients, but there is insufficient evidence. On the other hand, there are many studies confirming the effectiveness of these cells in the treatment of movement impairment. In conclusion, stem cells may have a very promising future. Finally, stem cell technology combined with innovative biotechnologies may soon bring promising results to patients.
Findings: In total, 9236 articles were found in the initial search, after reading the titles, of 37 articles, 21 articles were selected in the abstract stage and 18 articles remained in the full-text stage. We finally found 18 articles that showed that using stem cell technology as a scientific method could improve sick patients’ quality of life and movement defects.
Conclusion: According to the available evidence and limited studies, stem cell technology can be safeand cost-effective in improving CP patients, but there is insufficient evidence. On the other hand, there are many studies confirming the effectiveness of these cells in the treatment of movement impairment. In conclusion, stem cells may have a very promising future. Finally, stem cell technology combined with innovative biotechnologies may soon bring promising results to patients.
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Behjat Kalantari Khandani , Fatemeh Irannejad Parizi , Sedigheh Sadat Mousavi, Pouria Salajegheh,
Volume 81, Issue 1 (4-2023)
Volume 81, Issue 1 (4-2023)
Abstract
Background: Stem cells play an important role in tissue regeneration and treatment of diseases. This study aimed to investigate the awareness, knowledge and attitudes regarding stem cell donation among different people in the community.
Methods: In this systematic review study, Persian keywords and English keywords such as awareness, knowledge, stem cells, embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, cord blood stem cells and donation were selected according to MeSH database and then these selected keywords have been searched in the academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, OVID, Science Direct, Iran Medex and SID. In addition, these selected keywords have been searched in the search engines such as Google Scholar, between January 2010 to December 2021.
Methods: In this systematic review study, Persian keywords and English keywords such as awareness, knowledge, stem cells, embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, cord blood stem cells and donation were selected according to MeSH database and then these selected keywords have been searched in the academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, OVID, Science Direct, Iran Medex and SID. In addition, these selected keywords have been searched in the search engines such as Google Scholar, between January 2010 to December 2021.
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Results: The results of this study found a total of twenty-five articles related to the awareness, knowledge and attitudes regarding stem cell donation among different people in the community. They were selected. In this study there were 10 cross-sectional studies, 2 descriptive-cross-sectional studies, 5 descriptive studies, 1 mixed method study, 1 semi-experimental study, 1 intervention study, 1 survey study, 1 review study, and the study type was not mentioned in three studies. Most of the studies were conducted in countries such as India, Saudi Arabia, and then United States (USA) and Turkey. Only one article was found in Iran. The results of studies have shown that the level of awareness and attitude of the majority of different people in the community towards the donation and use of stem cells is medium and low. However, most people have a good and positive attitude towards the donation and use of stem cells and mention the use of stem cells as an effective way to treat diseases.
Conclusion: Considering the importance and application of stem cells, it is suggested that managers and planners provide the necessary conditions to implement educational programs to raise the level of awareness and attitude of different people in the community towards stem cell donation. |
Nahid Askari, Ali Ali Shafieipour , Soudeh Khanamani Falahati-Pour,
Volume 81, Issue 5 (8-2023)
Volume 81, Issue 5 (8-2023)
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a promising therapy for kidney repair. This study compared the regenerative effects of feline MSCs (fMSCs) and telmisartan, a renin-angiotensin blocker (RAB), in a feline model of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Methods: The fMSCs were obtained from 35 Persian cats with CKD and characterized by CD44, CD90, and CD105 markers by using real-time RT-qPCR. The cats were randomly allocated to four groups, fMSCs injection (first group), telmisartan administration (second group), no treatment (third group), and healthy controls (fourth group). The study was conducted in Kerman province from December 2018 to December 2019. The factors that may affect the risk of CKD, such as age, weight, and history of kidney diseases, were considered as independent variables. The presence or absence of CKD was the dependent variable. The cats were followed up for 120 days and evaluated by physical examination, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), serum urea, alanine transaminase (ALT), urine specific gravity (SG), and kidney histopathology. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 20) with two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Methods: The fMSCs were obtained from 35 Persian cats with CKD and characterized by CD44, CD90, and CD105 markers by using real-time RT-qPCR. The cats were randomly allocated to four groups, fMSCs injection (first group), telmisartan administration (second group), no treatment (third group), and healthy controls (fourth group). The study was conducted in Kerman province from December 2018 to December 2019. The factors that may affect the risk of CKD, such as age, weight, and history of kidney diseases, were considered as independent variables. The presence or absence of CKD was the dependent variable. The cats were followed up for 120 days and evaluated by physical examination, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), serum urea, alanine transaminase (ALT), urine specific gravity (SG), and kidney histopathology. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 20) with two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
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Results: The fMSCs group showed significant improvement in GFR, BUN, SCr, serum urea, SG, and kidney histology compared to the other groups. The fMSCs group also showed increased expression of CD44, CD90, and CD105 genes in the kidney tissue, indicating enhanced stem cell activity. The telmisartan group showed modest improvement in blood pressure and proteinuria, but no significant effect on other parameters. fMSCs transplantation can restore the kidney function and structure in cats with CKD by modulating the apoptosis and proliferation of renal cells. The telmisartan patients benefited from the anti-hypertensive and anti-proteinuric effects of the drug, but not from its anti-fibrotic or anti-inflammatory effects.
Conclusion: fMSCs transplantation was more effective than telmisartan in improving kidney function and reducing kidney damage in cats with CKD. fMSCs may be a potential therapeutic option for CKD patients. |
Samaneh Arab, Mohammad-Reza Mahmoudian-Sani , Najmeh Fattahi , Zakiye Ekhlasi, Samira Asgharzade,
Volume 83, Issue 5 (8-2025)
Volume 83, Issue 5 (8-2025)
Abstract
Background: Retinal photoreceptor degeneration is a major cause of blindness. Stem cell therapies offer promise, and the miR-183/96/182 cluster, particularly miR-182 and miR-183, plays a crucial role in photoreceptor development and survival. Targeting these miRNAs may enhance human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells) hBMSCs (differentiation into photoreceptor-like cells, improving their therapeutic potential.
Methods: This in vitro study was conducted from April 2019 to March 2021 at the Clinical Biochemistry Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences. hBMSCs were cultured in DMEM with fetal bovine serum and transfected with miR-182 and miR-183 mimics using Lipofectamine, with a scramble miRNA control. Transfection efficiency and miRNA overexpression were evaluated at 24 and 48 hours using real-time PCR. miRNA expression was normalised to Snord, while mRNA levels were normalised to GAPDH using the 2−ΔΔCt method. Photoreceptor-like differentiation was assessed by measuring the expression of retina-specific transcription factors and markers (OTX2, CRX, NRL, SLC1A1, PKCα, Recoverin, and RHO). Statistical analyses included the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality and the Mann-Whitney U test for group comparisons. Data were reported as Mean ± SEM, with 95% confidence intervals, and significance set at α = 0.05.
Results: Transfection of miR-182 and miR-183 significantly increased miRNA levels at 24–48 hours (P < 0.001) compared to the scramble control. This led to a marked upregulation of retinal-related genes, including CRX, OTX2, PKCα, Recoverin, NRL, and RHO, indicating activation of the photoreceptor gene network. Time-resolved analysis revealed stronger effects at 24–48 hours, supporting a transient window for pro-differentiation. RHO and CRX exhibited the most significant increases, while OTX2 and PKCα showed parallel rises, suggesting coordinated activation of early and intermediate photoreceptor programs. Scramble controls did not show comparable changes.
Conclusion: Transient overexpression of miR-182 and miR-183 in hBMSCs activates a photoreceptor-like gene expression program, promoting differentiation toward photoreceptor-like cells. This finding supports the potential use of miR-182/183 in stem cell-based therapies for retinal degeneration. Further studies should confirm protein expression, functional outcomes, and in vivo efficacy.
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