Human Stem Cells from Embryonic and Fetal Sources Differentiate into Cardiac Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Ramkisoensing Arti A., Pijnappels Daniël A., Askar Saïd F. A., Passier Robert, Swildens Jim, Goumans Marie José, Schutte Cindy I., de Vries Antoine A. F., Scherjon Sicco, Mummery Christine L., Schalij Martin J., Atsma Douwe E.
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
The developmental stage of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) affects their cardiac differentiation potential.
Conclusion
Human embryonic and fetal MSCs can differentiate into three cardiac lineages, unlike adult MSCs.
Supporting Evidence
- Human embryonic stem cell-derived MSCs showed higher cardiomyogenic differentiation than fetal and adult MSCs.
- Only embryonic and fetal MSCs formed capillary-like structures in angiogenesis assays.
- Connexin43 expression was significantly higher in embryonic and fetal MSCs compared to adult MSCs.
Takeaway
This study shows that younger stem cells from embryos and fetuses can turn into heart cells, while older stem cells from adults cannot.
Methodology
The study involved co-culturing labeled human MSCs with neonatal rat cardiomyocytes and assessing differentiation through various analyses.
Limitations
The study could not co-culture different hMSC subtypes with adult human cardiomyocytes due to feasibility issues.
Participant Demographics
Human MSCs were derived from embryonic, fetal, and adult sources.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website