Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 17, 2025
Isolation and Purification of Murine Cardiac Pericytes
Published on: August 16, 2019
Isolation of Mammalian Mesoangioblasts: A Subset of Pericytes with Myogenic Potential
Giorgia Giacomazzi1, Gaia Giovannelli1,2, Alessio Rotini1,2
1Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell Institute, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Abstract:
Mesoangioblasts (MABs) are vessel-associated stem cells that express pericyte markers and are originally isolated from the embryonic dorsal aorta. From postnatal small vessels of skeletal muscle and heart, it is possible to isolate cells with similar characteristics to embryonic MABs. Adult MABs have the capacity to self-renew and to differentiate into cell types of mesodermal lineages upon proper culture conditions. To date, the origin of MABs and the relationship with other muscle stem cells are still debated. Recently, in a phase I-II clinical trial, intra-arterial HLA-matched MABs were proved to be relatively safe. Novel information on MAB pure populations is desirable, and implementation of their therapeutic potential is mandatory to approach efficacy in MAB-based treatments. This chapter provides an overview of the current techniques for isolation and characterization of rodent, canine, human, and equine adult MABs.
Insights
Mesoangioblasts (MABs), vessel-associated stem cells, can be isolated from adult tissues and have therapeutic potential. This chapter reviews methods for isolating and characterizing MABs from various species for future treatments.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Regenerative medicine
- Vascular biology
Background:
- Mesoangioblasts (MABs) are pericyte-like stem cells originating from embryonic vessels.
- Similar cells can be isolated from adult skeletal muscle and heart small vessels.
- Adult MABs self-renew and differentiate into mesodermal lineages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of isolation and characterization techniques for adult MABs.
- To highlight the need for more information on pure MAB populations.
- To emphasize the therapeutic potential of MABs.
Main Methods:
- Review of current techniques for MAB isolation.
- Characterization methods for MABs across species (rodent, canine, human, equine).
- Discussion of MAB origin and relationship to other muscle stem cells.
Main Results:
- Adult MABs share characteristics with embryonic MABs.
- Intra-arterial MAB administration showed relative safety in a clinical trial.
- Techniques for isolating and characterizing MABs from multiple species are available.
Conclusions:
- Adult MABs represent a promising stem cell source for regenerative medicine.
- Further research into pure MAB populations is crucial for therapeutic development.
- Standardized isolation and characterization methods are essential for MAB-based therapies.
