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Updated: May 13, 2026
Isolation of Stem-like Cells from 3-Dimensional Spheroid Cultures
Published on: December 13, 2019
Isolation and characterization of novel, highly proliferative human CD34/CD73-double-positive testis-derived stem
Won Yun Choi1, Hwang Gyun Jeon, Young Chung
1Fertility Center, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, College of Medicine, CHA University, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Human adult stem cells are a readily available multipotent cell source that can be used in regenerative medicine. Despite many advantages, including low tumorigenicity, their rapid senescence and limited plasticity have curtailed their use in cell-based therapies. In this study, we isolated CD34/CD73-double-positive (CD34(+)/CD73(+)) testicular stromal cells (HTSCs) and found that the expression of CD34 was closely related to the cells' stemness and proliferation. The CD34(+)/CD73(+) cells grew in vitro for an extended period of time, yielding a multitude of cells (5.6×10(16) cells) without forming tumors in vivo. They also differentiated into all three germ layer lineages both in vitro and in vivo, produced cartilage more efficiently compared to bone marrow stem cells and, importantly, restored erectile function in a cavernous nerve crush injury rat model. Thus, these HTSCs may represent a promising new autologous cell source for clinical use.
Insights
Human testicular stromal cells (HTSCs) expressing CD34 and CD73 show robust proliferation and multi-lineage differentiation potential. These cells offer a promising avenue for regenerative medicine, restoring function in preclinical models.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Stem Cell Biology
- Urology
Background:
- Human adult stem cells are valuable for regenerative medicine but face limitations like senescence and restricted plasticity.
- Identifying novel adult stem cell sources with enhanced proliferation and differentiation is crucial for therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize CD34/CD73-double-positive human testicular stromal cells (HTSCs).
- To evaluate the stemness, proliferation, differentiation potential, and therapeutic efficacy of these HTSCs.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and culture of CD34(+)/CD73(+) HTSCs.
- In vitro and in vivo assessment of cell proliferation, stemness markers, and multi-lineage differentiation.
- Evaluation of HTSC efficacy in a rat model of cavernous nerve crush injury.
Main Results:
- CD34 expression correlated with stemness and proliferation in HTSCs.
- HTSCs exhibited extended in vitro expansion (5.6×10^16 cells) without in vivo tumor formation.
- HTSCs differentiated into all three germ layers and showed superior cartilage formation compared to bone marrow stem cells.
- HTSCs restored erectile function in a rat model.
Conclusions:
- CD34(+)/CD73(+) HTSCs represent a potent stem cell source with high proliferative capacity and broad differentiation potential.
- These HTSCs demonstrate preclinical efficacy in restoring function, suggesting their promise for autologous cell-based therapies.
