Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (434)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
25 pages, 5535 KB  
Article
Therapeutic Window for Intravenous Human Muse Cell Administration in Mouse Spinal Cord Injury
by Kotaro Sakashita, Yoshihiro Kushida, Shohei Wakao, Hiroshi Takahashi, Yasuhiro Horibata, Shun Okuwaki, Yosuke Ogata, Takane Nakagawa, Takahiro Sunami, Hisanori Gamada, Tomoaki Shimizu, Toru Funayama, Kousei Miura, Hiroshi Noguchi, Hiroyuki Sugimoto, Masashi Yamazaki, Mari Dezawa and Masao Koda
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(14), 6219; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27146219 - 12 Jul 2026
Viewed by 311
Abstract
Stage-specific embryonic antigen-3-positive pluripotent-like/macrophage-like multilineage-differentiating stress-enduring (Muse) cells are a distinct subpopulation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), accounting for 1% to several percent of MSCs. Although stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) typically targets the subacute phase to avoid the hostile [...] Read more.
Stage-specific embryonic antigen-3-positive pluripotent-like/macrophage-like multilineage-differentiating stress-enduring (Muse) cells are a distinct subpopulation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), accounting for 1% to several percent of MSCs. Although stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) typically targets the subacute phase to avoid the hostile acute environment, the therapeutic window for Muse cells remains unclear. C57BL/6J mice with severe T9 contusion SCI received a single tail vein injection of human bone marrow-derived (BM) Muse cells, BM-MSCs (both 5 × 104 cells), or vehicle at 2, 8, 14, or 28 days post-injury (DPI) without immunosuppressants. Among the different administration time points, the 2-DPI Muse cell group exhibited significantly higher Basso Mouse Scale scores than the BM-MSC and vehicle groups from 14 days after injection, while no significant differences were observed at the other administration time points. The 2-DPI Muse cell group showed significantly greater homing to the injured spinal cord than the BM-MSC group, with persistent engraftment and neural-lineage marker expression at day 42. Ablation of engrafted Muse cells at day 42 partially reversed locomotor recovery, suggesting that engrafted Muse cells contributed to functional recovery. These findings suggest that intravenous Muse cell therapy exerts timing-dependent therapeutic effects after SCI, with greater efficacy during the early post-injury phase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Neurobiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 19722 KB  
Article
Preclinical Evaluation of Human Donor-Derived Micronized Bone Marrow Stroma/Parenchyma Versus Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate in a Rat Model of Post-Traumatic Knee Osteoarthritis
by Haruki Nishimura, Zuokui Xiao, Jacob Singer, Xueqin Gao, William Sealy Hambright, Ryan Dregalla, Christopher T. Donner, Lucanus S. Koldewyn, Edward Jeffrey Donner and Johnny Huard
Cells 2026, 15(14), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15141249 - 10 Jul 2026
Viewed by 340
Abstract
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is widely used as a source of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) for musculoskeletal regeneration; however, BMAC lacks essential bone marrow extracellular matrix (ECM) components, a critical component of the stem cell niche that regulates MSC survival, paracrine signaling, [...] Read more.
Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is widely used as a source of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) for musculoskeletal regeneration; however, BMAC lacks essential bone marrow extracellular matrix (ECM) components, a critical component of the stem cell niche that regulates MSC survival, paracrine signaling, and regenerative capacity. We previously demonstrated that an ECM-retaining micronized bone marrow product (BMAX™) preserves pro-regenerative MSC phenotypes in vitro. Human bone marrow from a single donor was processed into conventional BMAC or BMAX™. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis was induced in immunodeficient rats using destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Four weeks after surgery, animals were randomly assigned to receive intra-articular injections of BMAX™, BMAC, or phosphate-buffered saline (n = 10–12 in each group). Pain-related behavior (n = 5–6/group), histological assessment (n = 3–6/group), and micro-computed tomography (n = 4–6/group) were evaluated for up to 8 weeks after treatment. At 4 weeks after treatment, BMAC significantly increased the paw withdrawal threshold compared with PBS (p = 0.0068), whereas BMAX™ significantly reduced knee joint swelling compared with both PBS (p = 0.0235) and BMAC (p = 0.0039), and BMAX™ significantly improved knee bend scores compared with PBS (p = 0.0011). Neither treatment significantly improved OARSI histological scores at this time point. At 8 weeks after treatment, BMAX™ significantly increased the paw withdrawal threshold compared with PBS (p = 0.0305), whereas BMAC showed a non-significant trend (p = 0.0517); both treatments significantly reduced knee bend scores compared with PBS (p = 0.0027 and p = 0.0255), and BMAX™ demonstrated significantly lower knee bend scores than BMAC (p = 0.0090). BMAX™ significantly reduced knee swelling compared with PBS (p = 0.0196). Histologically, BMAX™ significantly improved OARSI scores in both the femoral condyle and tibial plateau compared with PBS (p = 0.0020 and p = 0.0003, respectively), whereas BMAC significantly improved only tibial plateau OARSI scores (p = 0.0014). Furthermore, BMAX™ demonstrated significantly lower femoral condyle OARSI scores than BMAC (p = 0.0243). Micro-computed tomography revealed that both BMAX™ and BMAC significantly reduced medial subchondral trabecular separation compared with PBS (p = 0.0340 and p = 0.0426, respectively), whereas no significant differences were observed between the two treatment groups for other bone structural parameters. In conclusion, preservation of the native bone marrow ECM was associated with improved functional outcomes and greater cartilage regeneration compared with conventional BMAC in this preclinical rat model of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. These findings support the concept that maintaining the native stem cell niche may enhance the therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived cell therapies for osteoarthritis. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 9530 KB  
Article
Enhanced Bone-Defect Regeneration Through nHA/Chitosan Nanocomposite-Facilitated Delivery of HUCB-MSCs-Derived Exosomes
by Lingzhi Ding, Jiachen Liu, Jia Gao, Yongqian Fu, Wenhui Chu and Shunwu Fan
Polymers 2026, 18(13), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18131562 - 23 Jun 2026
Viewed by 377
Abstract
Critical-sized bone defects lack spontaneous healing capacity. While mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (sEVs) are promising osteoinductive agents, their rapid in vivo clearance limits their free-form efficacy. Here, we fabricated a nano-hydroxyapatite/chitosan (nHA/CTS) composite scaffold as a protective, sustained-delivery platform for human umbilical cord [...] Read more.
Critical-sized bone defects lack spontaneous healing capacity. While mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (sEVs) are promising osteoinductive agents, their rapid in vivo clearance limits their free-form efficacy. Here, we fabricated a nano-hydroxyapatite/chitosan (nHA/CTS) composite scaffold as a protective, sustained-delivery platform for human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell exosomes (HUCB-MSCs-exos) to accelerate bone repair. The 3D porous CTS/10% nHA scaffold exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and a degradation rate commensurate with new bone ingrowth. Critically, it enabled a biphasic exosome release profile—an initial burst followed by a 14-day sustained release (89.73% cumulative release). In vitro, HUCB-MSCs-exos significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived MSCs, as demonstrated by enhanced alkaline phosphatase activity and matrix mineralization. In a rabbit condylar defect model (5 mm diameter), the CTS/10% nHA-exo scaffold achieved a 57.44 ± 8.42% healing rate at two months, nearly two-fold greater than the scaffold-only group (29.33 ± 6.94%). Histological and immunohistochemical analyses at two months confirmed the formation of mature, well-vascularized trabecular bone, accompanied by robust expression of late-stage osteogenic markers (OCN and OPN). These findings demonstrate that the CTS/10% nHA scaffold synergistically integrates osteoconductive structural guidance with exosome-mediated osteoinductive paracrine signaling, providing a compelling and translatable strategy for critical-sized bone-defect management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chitosan and Its Composite Materials for Biomedical Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 13102 KB  
Article
Spin-Coated PCL/PVP Biofilms with Amniotic Membrane Matrix Enhance Proliferation and Migration of BM-MSC
by Juan de Dios Mendez Quezada, Antonio Rojas Murillo, Mario Simental-Mendía, Rodolfo Franco Marquez, Paulina Delgado Gonzalez, Jose F. Islas, Jorge Lara Arias, Celia N. Sanchez Dominguez, Hector Leija Gutierrez and Elsa N. Garza Treviño
Coatings 2026, 16(6), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16060719 - 16 Jun 2026
Viewed by 308
Abstract
The amniotic membrane is widely recognized in regenerative medicine due to its rich content of extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors that confer anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative properties. However, its rapid degradation restricts its standalone clinical use. To overcome these limitations, we developed biofilms [...] Read more.
The amniotic membrane is widely recognized in regenerative medicine due to its rich content of extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors that confer anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative properties. However, its rapid degradation restricts its standalone clinical use. To overcome these limitations, we developed biofilms by incorporating decellularized human amniotic membrane matrix (dHAM) into polycaprolactone (PCL) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) matrices using spin-coating. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) were used to evaluate film biocompatibility through cell viability, proliferation, and wound healing migration assays. Surface characterization was performed using contact angle measurements, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Soluble dHAM extracts (4–6 mg/mL) significantly enhanced BM-MSC proliferation at 48 h compared to controls (p ≤ 0.01 and p ≤ 0.0001). Both PCL-dHAM and PVP-dHAM biofilms exhibited high cell viability (>90%) and improved initial adhesion. Notably, dHAM incorporation significantly increased wound closure rates at 24 h, reaching 98.47% for PCL-dHAM and 93.13% for PVP-dHAM, compared to 76.56% and 64.20% for pure polymers (p = 0.0001). All scaffolds maintained hydrophilic surfaces (<90°), favorable for cell interaction. The integration of dHAM into PCL and PVP by spin-coating produces biofilms biocompatible with enhanced regenerative potential, representing promising candidates for wound healing applications. In conclusion, these coatings support BM-MSC adhesion, proliferation, and migration, while significantly accelerating wound closure, underscoring their value as advanced bioactive coatings for regenerative medicine. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 18874 KB  
Article
MSC-Derived Apoptotic Vesicles Restore Bone Marrow Niche Homeostasis in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis by miRNA-Mediated Suppression of MAPK and NF-κB Signaling Nodes
by Zhiwen Tu, Haolin Wu, Youxi Jiang, Xinxin Li, Zhiqing Huang, Songtao Shi and Ruibao Ren
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(5), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19050777 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Background: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is associated with cellular senescence and the accumulation of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). While mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes show tissue repair potential, the efficacy and mechanisms of MSC-derived apoptotic vesicles (apoVs) remain unclear. This study compared MSC-apoVs [...] Read more.
Background: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is associated with cellular senescence and the accumulation of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). While mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes show tissue repair potential, the efficacy and mechanisms of MSC-derived apoptotic vesicles (apoVs) remain unclear. This study compared MSC-apoVs and exosomes in postmenopausal osteoporosis and investigated the underlying epigenetic mechanisms. Methods: Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in an ovariectomized (OVX) mouse model and senescent human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs). Small RNA sequencing identified differential microRNA (miRNA) cargos between vesicle types. SASP-related cytokine expression (IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1) and pathway activation were assessed by RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blot. Results: MSC-apoV treatment attenuated bone loss in OVX mice and reduced SASP expression in senescent hBMMSCs to a greater extent than exosomes. Small RNA sequencing revealed that apoVs were enriched with a specific miRNA cluster, including hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, and hsa-miR-98-5p. Bioinformatic analyses identified BRAF and CRKL as downstream targets of this miRNA cluster, supported by reduced protein levels after apoV treatment. Subsequent molecular assays showed that apoV treatment inhibited the phosphorylation of both the MAPK (p38 and JNK) and NF-κB (p65) signaling pathways, which correlated with reduced local inflammation in the bone marrow microenvironment and preserved osteogenic differentiation capacity. Conclusions: MSC-apoVs attenuate postmenopausal osteoporosis more effectively than exosomes. This enhanced efficacy is associated with the delivery of an enriched miRNA cluster that inhibits MAPK and NF-κB signaling, together with suppression of BRAF and CRKL protein expression. ApoVs may represent a cell-free therapeutic strategy for age-related bone loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceuticals)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

23 pages, 6369 KB  
Article
Effective Recellularization Using Mesenchymal Stem Cell Monoculture for Next-Generation Heart Valves
by So Young Kim, Ja-Kyoung Yoon, Serin Kim, Sunhi Ko, Yerin Shin, Gi Beom Kim, Hong-Gook Lim and Yong Jin Kim
Bioengineering 2026, 13(5), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering13050546 - 11 May 2026
Viewed by 1579
Abstract
Objective: Effectively eliminating xenoimmunogenicity and achieving recellularization in cardiac xenografts remains a critical challenge in developing an ideal implantable xenograft. We have previously demonstrated that the removal of major antigens, including Galα1-3Gal (α-Gal) epitope and non-human sialic acid N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), using α-galactosidase [...] Read more.
Objective: Effectively eliminating xenoimmunogenicity and achieving recellularization in cardiac xenografts remains a critical challenge in developing an ideal implantable xenograft. We have previously demonstrated that the removal of major antigens, including Galα1-3Gal (α-Gal) epitope and non-human sialic acid N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), using α-galactosidase and peptide N-glycosidase F (PNGase-F), enables a synergistic effect with decellularization, significantly reducing the expression of carbohydrate-binding lectins without altering the biomechanical properties of the graft. The aim of this study was to establish an effective method for in vitro recellularization by seeding human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on decellularized cardiac xenografts that had undergone optimal xenoantigen removal using α-galactosidase and PNGase-F. Additionally, this study aimed to evaluate the potential for in vivo recellularization. Methods: Decellularized porcine pericardium scaffolds treated with both enzymes were further modified by forming a fibrin mesh on their surface and within their structure, followed by the attachment of heparin and human vascular endothelial growth factor to the mesh. Subsequently, the scaffolds were seeded with human adipose tissue-derived stem cells for 8 weeks. In vitro recellularization, differentiation, and extracellular matrix remodeling of decellularized and enzyme-treated xenografts were assessed using vimentin, calponin, fibronectin, CD31, VWF, and phalloidin staining. To evaluate the potential for in vivo recellularization, decellularized glutaraldehyde-crosslinked xenografts with anticalcification treatments were seeded with rat bone marrow MSCs and implanted into rats subcutaneously to evaluate cell infiltration and calcification via histology, von Kossa staining, and micro-computed tomography. Results: In decellularized xenografts treated with both enzymes, stronger signals were detected and mesenchymal cell infiltration into the tissue was significantly faster, leading to accelerated recellularization. This recellularization process was more pronounced as time went on, with greater cell infiltration and evidence of cell differentiation. An in vivo study showed that decellularization and anticalcification treatments revealed stronger vimentin staining in histological analysis. The recellularization for our biocompatible scaffolds exhibited a lower degree of calcification compared to the non-recellularized tissue. Conclusions: We successfully developed major xenoantigen-free scaffolds by demonstrating the safety and synergistic effect of α-galactosidase and PNGase-F treatments and proved, for the first time, the effectiveness of recellularization using a human MSC monoculture on xenoantigen-free scaffolds. Furthermore, there was potential for in vivo recellularization of our biocompatible scaffolds seeded with MSCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Regenerative Engineering)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1825 KB  
Article
Proinflammatory Cytokine Preconditioning Enhances the Therapeutic Potency of Different Types of MSCs in Inflammation
by Lanzhi Liu, Juan Fandiño, Abigail J. M. Warren, Rui Shi, Ignacio Sallent, Shanshan Du, Sean D. McCarthy, Claire Masterson, Matt Angel, Christopher B. Rohde, John G. Laffey and Daniel O’Toole
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 4090; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27094090 - 2 May 2026
Viewed by 754
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have shown immunomodulatory effects and great promise in many inflammatory diseases such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, several barriers to translation remain such as cell availability and potency. This study evaluates the therapeutic potentials of three types [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have shown immunomodulatory effects and great promise in many inflammatory diseases such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, several barriers to translation remain such as cell availability and potency. This study evaluates the therapeutic potentials of three types of MSCs, bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSC), the human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MSC wild type (iMSC WT) and β2 microglobulin-knockout iMSCs (iMSC B2M KO) with or without proinflammatory cytokine preconditioning. BM-MSC, iMSC WT and iMSC B2M KO were preconditioned with a proinflammatory cytokine cocktail (Cytomix: IL-1β, IFN-γ and TNF-α). Immunoregulatory biomarkers were analysed by flow cytometry and cytokines released by ELISA. MSC antimicrobial properties were analysed via CFU assays while the MSCs’ immunomodulatory effects were evaluated using macrophage activation and T cell proliferation assays. Proinflammatory cytokine preconditioning enhanced the therapeutic potency of all three types of MSCs by increasing immunomodulatory marker expression, enhancing the antimicrobial effects and improving MSC-mediated inhibition of T cell proliferation. These findings provided new insights into the therapeutic potencies of MSCs in inflammation. Further studies are required for in vitro characterisation of the MSCs and in vivo efficacy verification of these MSCs prior to their clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4437 KB  
Article
hBM-MSC-Laden 3D Bioprinted Gelatin–Alginate Hydrogels: Physicochemical Characterisation and Osteogenic Lineage Commitment
by Devy F. Garna, Zetian Zhang and Lucy Di-Silvio
Gels 2026, 12(5), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12050387 - 1 May 2026
Viewed by 618
Abstract
Gelatin–alginate composite hydrogels are some of the most prevalent bioinks used for extrusion-based three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting because of their combined bioactivity and ability to ionically crosslink. Ionically crosslinked gelatin–alginate constructs containing human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) were characterised over time under [...] Read more.
Gelatin–alginate composite hydrogels are some of the most prevalent bioinks used for extrusion-based three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting because of their combined bioactivity and ability to ionically crosslink. Ionically crosslinked gelatin–alginate constructs containing human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) were characterised over time under standardised in vitro conditions to assess physicochemical properties and resultant cell behaviour. Water uptake and degradation were quantified over time in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and collagenase type II media for up to 21 days. Cell viability and metabolic activity were quantified, and osteogenic gene expression (RUNX2, COL1A1, OCN) was assessed. Raman spectroscopy and compressive mechanical characterisation were performed. Collagen and glycosaminoglycan-related peaks were observed from extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated components, with an increased presence of protein-associated signatures later in culture. Hydrogels displayed nonlinear elastic behaviour with increased stress after longer incubation times, suggesting no degradation of mechanical integrity over the duration of the study. Hydrogels experienced rapid hydration followed by decreased swelling over time, with a maximum swelling ratio at 24 h. Degradation rates significantly increased over longer incubation times (p < 0.001) and in collagenase media compared to PBS (p < 0.001). Observed differences were likely due to both ion-exchange-mediated network disassembly and the dissolution of gelatin components. Cell metabolic activity decreased under osteogenic culture conditions, while changes in osteogenic marker expression were sequential, suggesting a transition from proliferation to early osteogenic commitment in this 3D system. This work provides both physicochemical and biological characterisation of a commonly utilised gelatin–alginate bioink system, to provide future optimisations within the field of extrusion-based bone tissue engineering, a reproducible baseline for future optimisation of bioink systems in extrusion-based bone tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gelatin-Based Materials for Tissue Engineering)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 2735 KB  
Article
Grape Pomace Polyphenolic Extract Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through Activation of RUNX2 and NRF2 Transcription Factors: A Potential Natural Strategy for Osteoporosis Prevention
by Nadia Calabriso, Marika Massaro, Stefano Quarta, Luisa Siculella, Giuseppe Santarpino, Tiziano Verri, Carmela Gerardi, Giovanna Giovinazzo and Maria Annunziata Carluccio
Biology 2026, 15(9), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15090719 - 1 May 2026
Viewed by 871
Abstract
Osteoporosis is an age-related metabolic bone disorder characterized by an imbalance between bone resorption and formation. Natural polyphenols have gained attention as potential complementary strategies for its prevention. In this study, we investigated the effects of a sustainable, polyphenol-rich extract from red grape [...] Read more.
Osteoporosis is an age-related metabolic bone disorder characterized by an imbalance between bone resorption and formation. Natural polyphenols have gained attention as potential complementary strategies for its prevention. In this study, we investigated the effects of a sustainable, polyphenol-rich extract from red grape pomace (GPE) on human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) fate and its underlying mechanisms of action. We found that GPE significantly promoted osteogenic differentiation while suppressing adipogenic differentiation in canonical bone marrow-derived MSCs (BMSCs). This biological effect was preserved in adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AdMSCs) obtained from elderly patients (>65 years) at high cardiovascular risk. Mechanistically, GPE downregulated adipogenic markers (PPARγ, CD36 and FABP4) and enhanced osteogenic markers (RUNX2, ALP, OSX, BMP-2, OPN, COL1A1 and OCN). Moreover, GPE activated NRF2-dependent redox signaling, as evidenced by increased NRF2 nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity. Accordingly, GPE treatment significantly upregulated, or consistently increased, the expression of multiple NRF2 target genes, including HO-1, GPX, CAT, GCLC, and NQO1. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of NRF2 attenuated GPE-induced ALP activity, confirming NRF2 as a key mediator of its osteogenic effects. Overall, grape pomace-derived polyphenols act as upstream modulators of redox-sensitive and osteogenic transcription factors, rebalancing MSC differentiation toward osteogenesis and mitigating age-related bone fragility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Osteoblast Differentiation in Health and Disease)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 12394 KB  
Article
Brucella abortus Infection Promotes Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation Toward Adipogenesis, Enhancing the Proinflammatory Profile
by Rosa Nicole Freiberger, Cynthia Alicia Marcela López, María Belén Palma, Cintia Cevallos, Franco Agustin Sviercz, Patricio Jarmoluk, Marcela Nilda García, Jorge Quarleri and M. Victoria Delpino
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2026, 11(5), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed11050112 - 23 Apr 2026
Viewed by 945
Abstract
The most common complication of active brucellosis in humans is osteoarticular injury. In the bone marrow microenvironment, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into either adipocytes or osteoblasts, and this balance is tightly regulated because an increase in adipogenesis may negatively affect bone [...] Read more.
The most common complication of active brucellosis in humans is osteoarticular injury. In the bone marrow microenvironment, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into either adipocytes or osteoblasts, and this balance is tightly regulated because an increase in adipogenesis may negatively affect bone formation and favor bone loss. The differentiation of MSCs into adipocytes or osteoblasts is tightly regulated by mechanisms that promote cell fate toward one lineage while repressing the other. Our study demonstrated that Brucella abortus infects MSCs but does not affect the deposition of organic and mineral matrix during osteoblast differentiation. However, the infection upregulates Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Ligand (RANKL) expression in osteoblasts, which may contribute to osteoclast activation and bone resorption. Conversely, B. abortus infection significantly influences adipocyte differentiation by modulating lipolysis, lipogenesis, and interactions between lipid droplets and mitochondria. This leads to increased cellular cholesterol levels and reduced intracellular triglycerides, accompanied by glycerol release. These changes result in more differentiated adipocytes and larger lipid droplets. Consequently, we observed increased IL-6 secretion and a higher leptin/adiponectin ratio. Importantly, these effects were independent of a functional type IV secretion system (T4SS), as purified Brucella DNA fully reproduced the adipogenic phenotype. Moreover, inhibition of TLR9—the primary sensor of bacterial DNA—significantly reduced the DNA-induced adipogenic response, demonstrating that adipocyte modulation is at least in part mediated through TLR9 signaling. In summary, B. abortus promotes MSC differentiation toward an inflammatory adipocyte phenotype. It involves a TLR-9-mediated DNA detection. It may contribute to osteoarticular injury and infection-associated bone resorption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Brucella Infections)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 6987 KB  
Article
Nanotopography-Mediated Mechanotransduction Enhances hBMSCs Adhesion on TiO2 Nanotubes
by Chenao Xiong, Hui Feng, Liyang Lu, Zehao Jing, Youhao Wang, Yiyuan Yang, Dexuan Meng, Yichen Zhang, Weishi Li and Hong Cai
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(4), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17040200 - 19 Apr 2026
Viewed by 2047
Abstract
Titanium and its alloys are widely used for orthopedic implants, but their intrinsic bioinertness may hinder osseointegration. In this study, titanium dioxide nanotube (TNT) arrays were fabricated on Ti-6Al-4V scaffolds via anodization, and their effects on the adhesion behavior of human bone marrow [...] Read more.
Titanium and its alloys are widely used for orthopedic implants, but their intrinsic bioinertness may hinder osseointegration. In this study, titanium dioxide nanotube (TNT) arrays were fabricated on Ti-6Al-4V scaffolds via anodization, and their effects on the adhesion behavior of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were investigated. Surface characterization showed that anodization successfully generated ordered TNT layers, increased surface roughness, enhanced protein adsorption, and induced an apparent superhydrophilic wetting response. Compared to the untreated scaffold and TNT50, the small-diameter TNT10 surface significantly promoted hBMSC adhesion and proliferation. Microscope imaging further revealed enhanced cell spreading, F-actin organization, and vinculin expression on TNT surfaces, with the most prominent focal adhesion-related staining observed in TNT10. Quantitative proteomic analysis showed that TNT10 was associated with coordinated remodeling of adhesion- and cytoskeleton-related molecular programs, including focal adhesion, cell–substrate junction, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. In contrast, TNT50, despite supporting obvious cytoskeletal remodeling, was more compatible with a dynamic, higher-turnover adhesion state. Overall, these findings suggest that small-diameter TNTs provide a more favorable interfacial microenvironment for stable early hBMSC adhesion on porous titanium scaffolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metals and Alloys for Biomedical Applications (2nd Edition))
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 4309 KB  
Article
Multifunctional Shape-Memory Polyurethane/MnO2 Composites for Postsurgical Osteosarcoma Adaptive Treatment
by Deju Gao, Yuhan Du, Junjie Deng, Zhengxin Gan, Wei Zhang, Yuxiao Lai and Yuanchi Zhang
Materials 2026, 19(8), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19081504 - 9 Apr 2026
Viewed by 706
Abstract
Treatment of postsurgical osteosarcoma remains one of the major challenges in orthopedic clinics. Conventional implants often fail to address complex pathological issues, including irregular bone defects, residual tumor cells, and delayed bone regeneration. Herein, this study reports a multifunctional shape-memory polyurethane (SMPU)/manganese dioxide [...] Read more.
Treatment of postsurgical osteosarcoma remains one of the major challenges in orthopedic clinics. Conventional implants often fail to address complex pathological issues, including irregular bone defects, residual tumor cells, and delayed bone regeneration. Herein, this study reports a multifunctional shape-memory polyurethane (SMPU)/manganese dioxide (MnO2) composite that provides adaptive support, antitumor activity, and osteogenic bioactivity. SMPU was synthesized by introducing 1,4-butanediol (BDO) and dimethylolpropionic acid (DMPA) as chain extenders at a specific ratio. Commercial MnO2 nanoparticles were incorporated as both a photothermal agent and a bioactive component to achieve multifunctionality. As designed, a coordination system was formed between the polymer chains and MnO2 nanoparticles within the composites. The influence of MnO2 content was systematically investigated. Although increasing MnO2 amounts improved photothermal and mechanical performance, excessive incorporation adversely affected the molecular structure and compromised the composite’s biocompatibility. By adjusting the MnO2 content, the composites were demonstrated to possess robust mechanical performance, good shape-memory behavior, and controllable Mn2+ release. Additionally, the composites exhibited tunable photothermal performance under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Furthermore, in vitro studies confirmed that the composites containing 4 wt% MnO2 could eliminate tumor cells via photothermal effects and promote the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs). Overall, the SMPU/MnO2 composites had superior multifunction for treating irregular bone defects following bone tumor surgery. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 4386 KB  
Article
Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Derived Exosomes Mitigate Cutaneous Radiation Injury Through Coordinated Modulation of DNA Repair, Stress, and Inflammatory Gene Programs
by Amanda Ringwood, Chi Zhang and Rob Knight
Biomedicines 2026, 14(4), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14040811 - 2 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2614
Abstract
Background: Cutaneous radiation injury arises when ionizing radiation disrupts epidermal barrier integrity, triggering persistent DNA damage, oxidative stress, and senescence-associated inflammatory signaling that drive extracellular matrix degradation and impaired regeneration. Clinical burden is rising due to dose-intensified radiotherapy, but also due to [...] Read more.
Background: Cutaneous radiation injury arises when ionizing radiation disrupts epidermal barrier integrity, triggering persistent DNA damage, oxidative stress, and senescence-associated inflammatory signaling that drive extracellular matrix degradation and impaired regeneration. Clinical burden is rising due to dose-intensified radiotherapy, but also due to an increased use of energy-based aesthetic procedures that elicit radiation-like dermal injury. Dermal fibroblasts exhibit marked sensitivity to ionizing radiation and rapidly acquire senescence-associated secretory phenotypes that suppress collagen biosynthesis and promote chronic inflammation, underpinning the need for regenerative treatments that restore tissue homeostasis and regenerative competence. Mesenchymal stem cell–derived exosomes have emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy in this setting, with increasing preclinical evidence demonstrating their capacity to attenuate oxidative stress, enhance DNA damage-repair pathways, and normalize fibroblast metabolic function. Methods: In this study, we examine the expression profiles for 14 radiation response–associated genes of irradiated human dermal fibroblasts that were treated with bone marrow and umbilical cord MSC-derived exosomes at different timepoints using quantitative RT-PCR analysis. We also explore functional relationships among these genes through interaction network analysis, and outline a framework to organize pathway-level transcriptional responses to irradiation and exosome treatment. Results: MSC-derived exosome treatment was associated with attenuated early damage response signaling at 24 h, followed by increased expression of genes associated with DNA repair and oxidative stress recovery at intermediate timepoints. Exosome-treated cells also exhibited transcriptional changes consistent with modulation of cell-cycle regulatory pathways and reduced expression of pro-inflammatory markers by 5 d. These findings suggest that MSC-derived exosomes influence the temporal organization of the fibroblast transcriptional response to ionizing radiation and may contribute to molecular programs associated with tissue recovery following ionizing radiation exposure. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2915 KB  
Article
The Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Large Animal Models of Acute Liver Failure: A Meta-Analysis
by Yuxin Zhang, Yun Yu, Shanwei Yang, Yechao Lu and Xiaoping Pan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 3175; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27073175 - 31 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 683
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show therapeutic effects for acute liver failure (ALF), as demonstrated in small animal models of ALF, which showed improved survival and liver function. Nevertheless, small animal models are limited by their simplified immune systems and lower pathophysiological complexity, which [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show therapeutic effects for acute liver failure (ALF), as demonstrated in small animal models of ALF, which showed improved survival and liver function. Nevertheless, small animal models are limited by their simplified immune systems and lower pathophysiological complexity, which prevent them from fully capturing the key features of human ALF. Large animal models offer better physiological similarity; however, the effectiveness of MSC therapy on large animal models of ALF, such as pigs and monkeys, remains unclear. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic effect and safety of MSC therapy in large animal models of ALF. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published prior to 3 March 2025. Of the 609 identified studies, 13 were included, with the majority showing a low or unclear risk of bias. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that MSC therapy was associated with a higher survival rate and lower levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in large animal models with ALF, compared with the control groups. Subgroup analyses showed efficacy in both pig and monkey models. Furthermore, they showed that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and the deep vein transplantation route were each linked to a significantly higher survival rate and to lower ALT and AST levels after treatment in pigs with ALF. Additionally, a dose of (3.0–3.3) × 106/kg was associated with a significantly higher survival rate, as well as a lower AST level after treatment. In summary, the findings suggest MSC therapy is a safe and potential therapeutic option for large animals with ALF, although randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed for further validation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4570 KB  
Article
Chrysin Pretreatment Enhances BMSC Therapeutic Efficacy in Resolving Diabetic Wound Healing
by Sicheng Li, Shengzhi Zhou, Tian Yang, Mosheng Yu, Yong Wang and Zhanyong Zhu
Biomedicines 2026, 14(4), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14040781 - 30 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 784
Abstract
Background: Diabetic wounds represent a major clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired angiogenesis. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have strong regenerative potential, and their therapeutic effects and optimization strategies for diabetic wounds warrant further exploration. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: Diabetic wounds represent a major clinical challenge due to persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired angiogenesis. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have strong regenerative potential, and their therapeutic effects and optimization strategies for diabetic wounds warrant further exploration. Objective: This study aimed to improve the therapeutic efficacy of BMSCs in diabetic wound healing via chrysin pretreatment, as well as to evaluate the healing capacity and molecular mechanisms of the derived chrysin-pretreated BMSC-conditioned medium (Chrysin-CM). Methods: BMSCs were pretreated with 1 μM chrysin for 48 h to generate Chrysin-CM. The therapeutic effects were evaluated in vitro by analyzing the proliferation, migration, and matrix synthesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) under high-glucose (HG) conditions. In vivo, a diabetic mouse model with full-thickness excisional wounds was established and treated topically with Chrysin-CM. Transcriptomic sequencing and immune infiltration analysis of wound tissues were performed on day 14 in order to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Results: Chrysin pretreatment significantly enhanced the functional activity of BMSCs, accompanied by increased proliferative capacity and accelerated cell cycle progression. In vitro, Chrysin-CM demonstrated superior efficacy, robustly protecting HUVECs and HSFs from HG-induced dysfunction. In vivo, Chrysin-CM significantly accelerated wound closure, re-epithelialization, and neovascularization compared to the control. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) revealed that Chrysin-CM induced multi-level remodeling, characterized by reduced inflammatory gene expression and immune cell infiltration, along with the upregulation of regenerative genes and alternative splicing events. Conclusions: Chrysin successfully improved the therapeutic efficacy of the BMSC secretome in wound healing. Chrysin-CM effectively accelerated diabetic wound healing by actively resolving chronic inflammation and promoting angiogenesis and structural remodeling, thus providing a potential strategy for stem cell-based cell-free treatment for chronic diabetic wounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wound Healing)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop