Differentiation and major histocompatibility complex antigen expression in human liver-derived stem cells

Stem cells are a promising source for liver repopulation after cell transplantation, but whether the adult liver contains hepatic stem cells is controversial. The purpose of this study was to characterize the properties and expression profile of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens on the surface of human-derived stem cells. Human liver-derived stem cells (HLSC7) were isolated from the nontumorous tissue of a patient who underwent a resection of an hepatic hemangioendothelioma. We characterized HLSC7 using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter, polymerase chain reactions, and immunofluorescence assays. HLSC7 expressed mesenchymal but not hematopoietic stem cell markers. HLSC7 underwent osteogenic, chondrogenic, and hepatogenic differentiation when cultured in appropriate differentiation media. However, HLSC7 did not differentiate into adipocytes. In addition, HLSC7 did not express MHC class II (HLA-DP, -DQ, and -DR) antigens. However, they did express MHC class I antigens. These results suggest that human liver-derived stem cells express MHC class I antigens and thus may be rejected on transplantation. Therefore, in addition to studies on stem cell differentiation, one must overcome immunologic barriers for successful clinical application of this therapy.