The immunosuppressive capacity of human mesenchymal stromal cells derived from amnion and bone marrow

Ladda Meesuk1, Chairat Tantrawatpan1,2, Pakpoom Kheolamai1,2

  • 1Division of Cell Biology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand.

Insights

Amnion-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AM-MSCs) offer an accessible source for cell therapy, exhibiting potent immunosuppressive properties comparable to bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) via indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO).

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Regenerative Medicine

Background:

  • Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are crucial for immune modulation.
  • Bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) utilize indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) for immunosuppression.
  • Amnion-derived MSCs (AM-MSCs) are readily available but their immunosuppressive mechanisms are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the immunosuppressive properties of AM-MSCs.
  • To determine if IDO contributes to the immunosuppressive function of AM-MSCs.
  • To compare AM-MSCs with BM-MSCs regarding immunosuppression and availability.

Main Methods:

  • Cultured and characterized AM-MSCs and BM-MSCs.
  • Assessed MSC marker expression and differentiation potential.
  • Co-cultured MSCs with activated T-cells to evaluate immunosuppressive effects.
  • Measured IDO secretion and its role in immunosuppression.

Main Results:

  • AM-MSCs displayed spindle morphology and expressed MSC markers, similar to BM-MSCs.
  • AM-MSCs demonstrated comparable immunosuppressive effects to BM-MSCs on T-cell activation.
  • IDO secreted by AM-MSCs was confirmed to mediate immunosuppression.
  • AM-MSCs offer an advantage in terms of easier and larger-scale acquisition.

Conclusions:

  • AM-MSCs possess significant immunosuppressive capabilities mediated by IDO.
  • AM-MSCs represent a promising, readily available alternative to BM-MSCs for therapeutic applications.
  • AM-MSCs hold potential for treating immune-related diseases.