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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Assessment of the Immunomodulatory Properties of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)
Published on: December 24, 2015
Mesenchymal stem cells modulate immune responses combined with cyclosporine in a rat renal transplantation model
1Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine of Jiang Su Province, Nanjing Medical University, and Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are pluripotent progenitors for a variety of cell types. Their down-regulation of the immune response in vivo has been hypothesized, but not yet substantiated, by experimental evidence. We investigated graft function, histology, animal survival days reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reactor (RT-PCR) analysis of interleukin (IL)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1. The results demonstrated that MSCs down-regulated immune responses, reduced production of some inflammatory mediators, preserved graft function in the initial stage after transplantation, and prolonged animal survival. However, the effects were not as strong as those of cyclosporine (CsA) therapy. Moreover, MSCs combined with low-dose CsA protected graft function, but could not prolong animal survival compared with CsA monotherapy, indicating a potential interaction between MSC and CsA activities, possibly allowing reduced CsA doses.
Insights
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show potential in down-regulating immune responses and preserving graft function. While not as potent as cyclosporine (CsA), MSCs may allow for reduced CsA doses when used in combination therapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Transplantation Biology
Background:
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stromal cells with immunomodulatory properties.
- The in vivo immunomodulatory effects of MSCs are hypothesized but require experimental substantiation.
- Understanding MSCs' impact on immune responses is crucial for optimizing transplantation outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs in a transplantation model.
- To evaluate the impact of MSCs on graft function, survival, and inflammatory mediator production.
- To explore the potential synergistic or interactive effects of MSCs combined with cyclosporine (CsA).
Main Methods:
- Graft function and histology were assessed post-transplantation.
- Animal survival was monitored.
- Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to analyze gene expression of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1.
- Comparisons were made between MSC therapy, CsA monotherapy, and combination therapy.
Main Results:
- MSCs demonstrated a capacity to down-regulate immune responses and reduce inflammatory mediator production.
- MSC treatment preserved initial graft function and prolonged animal survival.
- The therapeutic effects of MSCs were less pronounced than those of CsA monotherapy.
- Combination therapy with MSCs and low-dose CsA preserved graft function but did not extend survival beyond CsA monotherapy.
Conclusions:
- MSCs possess immunomodulatory capabilities that benefit graft survival and function in the early post-transplantation period.
- MSC therapy offers a potential adjunct to immunosuppressive drugs like CsA.
- The findings suggest an interaction between MSCs and CsA, potentially enabling the use of lower CsA dosages.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying MSC-CsA interactions and optimize combination therapies.
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