Evaluation of storage conditions on equine adipose tissue-derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells

The transplantation of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) is a potentially promising therapy for the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries and some forms of articular pathology in horses. This study investigated the effects of storage conditions on MSCs. Equine adipose tissue-derived MSCs (eAd-MSCs) were stored at 4 °C and at room temperature (RT) for 24 and 48 h, and viability, doubling time, expression of CD44 and CD90 antigens, clonogenic/differentiation potentials, and karyotype were subsequently evaluated. The eAd-MSC viability was significantly affected by the storage conditions, while doubling time was not significantly altered. The findings indicate (1) that storage at 4 °C is preferable to RT as this results in greater numbers of viable, morphologically normal cells, and (2) that cells should be used within 24 h.