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ALCAM (CD166) as a gene expression marker for human mesenchymal stromal cell characterisation
Bas Brinkhof1, Bo Zhang1, Zhanfeng Cui1
1Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Gene
|September 8, 2021
Summary
Researchers identified new biomarkers for mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) using quantitative PCR. Activated-Leukocyte Cell Adhesion Molecule (ALCAM) shows promise for accurately distinguishing MSCs from fibroblasts, improving cell characterization.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biomarker Discovery
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) share surface markers (CD73, CD90, CD105) with fibroblasts, complicating identification.
- Fibroblasts are common contaminants in MSC cultures and can overgrow them.
- No single unique marker currently exists for definitive MSC identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel, specific biomarkers for accurate characterization of human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).
- To differentiate MSCs from fibroblasts using gene expression analysis.
- To evaluate the utility of quantitative PCR (qPCR) for MSC marker discovery.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was employed to analyze the expression levels of 18 candidate genes.
- Gene expression was assessed in various MSC sources (bone marrow, umbilical cord) and conditions (2D, 3D, oxygen levels).
- Expression profiles of MSCs were compared against those of fibroblasts.
Main Results:
- Standard ISCT markers (CD73, CD90, CD105) failed to differentiate MSCs from fibroblasts.
- Six genes (ALCAM, CLIC1, EDIL3, EPHA2, NECTIN2, TMEM47) were identified as potential MSC biomarkers.
- Activated-Leukocyte Cell Adhesion Molecule (ALCAM) demonstrated significant potential for MSC identification.
Conclusions:
- ALCAM emerged as the most promising candidate biomarker for MSC identification.
- ALCAM offers improved specificity and reliability compared to existing markers.
- This finding can enhance the accuracy of MSC characterization in research and clinical applications.
