Tumorigenic Potential of Olfactory Bulb-Derived Human Adult Neural Stem Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Casalbore Patrizia, Budoni Manuela, Ricci-Vitiani Lucia, Cenciarelli Carlo, Petrucci Giovanna, Milazzo Luisa, Montano Nicola, Tabolacci Elisabetta, Maira Giulio, Larocca Luigi M., Pallini Roberto
Primary Institution: Institute of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, CNR, Rome, Italy
Hypothesis
Can olfactory bulb-derived human adult neural stem cells transform into tumorigenic cells?
Conclusion
Olfactory bulb-derived neural stem/progenitor cells can integrate into the CNS or initiate tumor formation, highlighting the need for caution in their clinical use.
Supporting Evidence
- Neural stem/progenitor cells from the olfactory bulb can develop tumors in immunocompromised mice.
- Some cultures lost their ability to differentiate into neurons, indicating potential transformation.
- Up-regulation of hTERT and NOTCH1 was associated with tumorigenicity.
Takeaway
Scientists studied brain cells from adults and found that some could turn into tumors, which means we need to be careful when using these cells for treatments.
Methodology
The study involved culturing neural stem/progenitor cells from the olfactory bulb of adult patients and assessing their tumorigenicity through xenografting in immunocompromised mice.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the selection of patients with adjacent tumors may influence the results.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to all neural stem cells due to specific conditions affecting tumorigenicity.
Participant Demographics
Five adult patients who underwent surgery for benign lesions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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