In vivo MRI stem cell tracking requires balancing of detection limit and cell viability

Cell-based therapy using adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has already been the subject of clinical trials, but for further development and optimization the distribution and integration of the engrafted cells into host tissues have to be monitored. Today, for this purpose magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most suitable technique, and micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) used for labeling are favorable due to their low detection limit. However, constitutional data concerning labeling efficiency, cell viability, and function are lacking. We demonstrate that cell viability and migratory potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are negatively correlated with incorporated MPIOs, presumably due to interference with the actin cytoskeleton. Nevertheless, labeling of BMSCs with low amounts of MPIOs results in maintained cellular function and sufficient contrast for in vivo observation of single cells by MRI in a rat glioma model. Conclusively, though careful titration is indicated, MPIOs are a promising tool for in vivo cell tracking and evaluation of cell-based therapies.