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Directed Differentiation of Primitive and Definitive Hematopoietic Progenitors from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Published on: November 1, 2017
APELIN promotes hematopoiesis from human embryonic stem cells
Qing C Yu1, Claire E Hirst, Magdaline Costa
1Monash Immunology and Stem Cell Laboratories, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
Blood
|May 22, 2012
Summary
Apelin (APLN) acts as a novel growth factor for human embryonic stem cell (hESC) differentiation. APLN peptide enhances hematoendothelial gene expression and boosts the formation of hematopoietic and endothelial cells from hESCs.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Developmental biology
- Hematopoiesis
Background:
- Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a valuable model for studying early human development.
- Understanding the factors that regulate hESC differentiation is crucial for regenerative medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel growth factors involved in hESC differentiation.
- To investigate the role of the Apelin receptor (APLNR) and its ligand Apelin (APLN) in hESC development.
Main Methods:
- Transcriptional profiling of differentiating hESCs.
- Flow cytometry using fluorescently labeled Apelin (APLN) or anti-APLNR antibody.
- Cell culture assays with APLN peptide addition.
- Assessment of hematoendothelial gene expression and colony-forming cell frequency.
Main Results:
- APLNR transcripts were enriched in MIXL1-positive mesodermal precursors.
- APLNR-positive cells were identified in posterior mesoderm and anterior mesendoderm, enriched in hemangioblast colony-forming cells (Bl-CFC).
- APLN peptide significantly enhanced embryoid body growth, hematoendothelial gene expression, and Bl-CFC frequency (up to 10-fold).
- APLN synergized with VEGF to promote hESC-derived endothelial cell growth.
Conclusions:
- Apelin (APLN) is a novel growth factor for hESC-derived hematopoietic and endothelial cells.
- APLN signaling plays a significant role in regulating hESC differentiation towards hematoendothelial lineages.
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