In vivo Differentiation Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Prenatal and Postnatal Model Systems

SUMMARY: Most of our knowledge of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) biology is derived from in vitro systems that are often highly contrived to favor culture expansion or specific differentiation events. However, any conclusions drawn from in vitro studies regarding MSC differentiation capacity, immune properties, or therapeutic potential must be validated by in vivo studies to ultimately be meaningful. At the present time, there are relatively few in vivo studies demonstrating differentiation and functional integration of MSCs into host tissues after transplantation. There is a need for in vivo model systems to assay MSC biology and to move potential therapeutic strategies forward. Here, we review prenatal model systems as potentially advantageous for the in vivo characterization of MSCs, and we critically review the results of in vivo studies of MSC transplantation in prenatal and postnatal model systems with an emphasis on proven engraftment and differentiation.