Mesenchymal stem cells: characteristics, sources, and mechanisms of action.
Abstract: This article provides an overview of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) biology. In the first section, the characteristics that are routinely used to define MSCs-adherence, proliferation, multi-lineage potential, and "cluster of differentiation" marker profiles-are discussed. In the second section, the major tissues and body fluids that are used as sources for equine MSCs are presented, along with the comparative biologic activities of MSCs from specific locations. Finally, the current understanding of the mechanisms by which MSCs influence repair and regeneration are discussed, with an emphasis on the clinical importance of MSC trophic activities.
Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication Date: 2011-08-30 PubMed ID: 21872757DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2011.06.004Google Scholar: Lookup
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The research article provides comprehensive details on the biological nature of mesenchymal stem cells, including their characteristics, sources, and potential impact on healing and regeneration processes.
Characteristics of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
- In the first part of the article, the researchers discuss the distinguishing features of mesenchymal stem cells. This includes their ability to adhere and proliferate in specific conditions, and their multi-lineage potential which means they can develop into a variety of cell types.
- The study also highlights the importance of “cluster of differentiation” marker profiles. These are molecules present on the cell surface used in immunophenotyping to recognize and differentiate between the various types of cells within the body.
Sources of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
- The second part of the article focuses on the identification and comparison of the major tissues and body fluids that act as sources for equine mesenchymal stem cells.
- Contrasting the biological activities of MSCs from different locations allows for a firmer understanding of the specific conditions under which these cells proliferate or differentiate—one of the prime research interests in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy.
Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
- The final section revels the mechanisms by which MSCs contribute towards body repair and regeneration—critical knowledge for potential therapeutic applications.
- The authors place particular emphasis on the trophic activities of MSCs—these relate to the ways in which the cells support the survival and growth of other cells, contributing for instance to tissue repair.
- Understanding these mechanisms underpins the potential clinical applications of MSCs in facilitating healing and regeneration, from addressing injury to managing degenerative diseases.
Cite This Article
APA
Stewart MC, Stewart AA.
(2011).
Mesenchymal stem cells: characteristics, sources, and mechanisms of action.
Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract, 27(2), 243-261.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cveq.2011.06.004 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, 1008 West Hazelwood Drive, Urbana, IL 61802, USA. matt1@illinois.edu
MeSH Terms
- Animals
- Cell Culture Techniques
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells / cytology
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells / physiology
Citations
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