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Construction of a Multilayered Mesenchymal Stem Cell Sheet with a 3D Dynamic Culture System
Published on: October 20, 2018
Adipose-derived stem cell sheet under an elastic patch improves cardiac function in rats after myocardial infarction
Noriyuki Kashiyama1, Robert L Kormos2, Yasumoto Matsumura3
1McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa; Heart and Vascular Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pa; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa; Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita-city, Osaka, Japan.
Combining adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) with a bioengineered cardiac patch improved cell survival and cardiac function in a rat model of ischemic cardiomyopathy. This approach enhanced neovascularization and reduced fibrosis, offering a promising strategy for cardiac regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) show potential for cardiac repair but face engraftment challenges.
- Bioengineered cardiac patches can improve ventricular remodeling in ischemic cardiomyopathy.
- Combining ADSCs with cardiac patches may overcome engraftment issues and enhance cardiac function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if combining ADSC sheets with a bioengineered cardiac patch improves ADSC engraftment and cardiac function in a rat model of ischemic cardiomyopathy.
- To compare the efficacy of combined therapy versus ADSCs alone or patch alone.
Main Methods:
- Cardiac patches were fabricated from poly(ester carbonate urethane) urea and decellularized cardiac extracellular matrix.
- ADSCs expressing green fluorescent protein were transplanted as a cell sheet onto the left ventricle post-myocardial infarction, with or without a cardiac patch.
- Cardiac function was assessed via echocardiography for 8 weeks in groups receiving combined therapy, ADSCs alone, patch alone, or sham procedure.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher ADSC survival was observed in the combined therapy group compared to ADSCs alone.
- The combined therapy and patch-alone groups showed reduced fibrotic area and increased peri-infarct vasculature.
- Hepatocyte growth factor expression was elevated in the combined therapy group, correlating with improved left ventricular ejection fraction.
Conclusions:
- A biodegradable cardiac patch significantly enhances ADSC engraftment and survival.
- The combined approach promotes neovascularization and improves cardiac function post-myocardial infarction.
- This strategy represents a promising therapeutic avenue for ischemic cardiomyopathy treatment.

