Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation worsens intestinal inflammation and microenvironment in PI3Kγ-knockout mice

Yi Li1, Qian-Qian Chen1, Wen-Ya Zhu2

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, the First Medical Center, General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, No. 28, Fu Xing Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100853, China.

Cellular Immunology
|August 28, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation worsened colitis in PI3Kγ knockout mice by increasing pathogenic microbes and reducing protective factors. This suggests PI3Kγ is crucial for MSC therapy efficacy in colitis.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show therapeutic potential for inflammatory conditions like colitis.
  • The role of phosphoinositide 3-kinase gamma (PI3Kγ) in MSC-mediated treatment remains unclear.
  • Investigating PI3Kγ's interaction with MSCs is crucial for understanding treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of MSCs in treating colitis in PI3Kγ knockout mice.
  • To compare MSC treatment outcomes in PI3Kγ-/- mice versus wild-type mice.
  • To elucidate the impact of PI3Kγ deficiency on the gut microbiome and immune response during MSC therapy.

Main Methods:

  • A colitis model was induced using trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid enema in wild-type and PI3Kγ-/- mice.
  • Mesenchymal stem cells were administered intravenously to treat colitis.
  • Colonic microbial 16S rRNA genes, IgA, IL-2, IL-10, IL-17A, occludin, and serum IgA were quantified.

Main Results:

  • MSC transplantation exacerbated weight loss and disease severity in PI3Kγ-/- mice compared to wild-type.
  • PI3Kγ-/- mice exhibited increased disease activity, pathological scores, gut microbial diversity, and blood IgA post-MSC treatment.
  • Colon occludin and IL-10 levels decreased in PI3Kγ-/- mice but increased in wild-type mice after MSC transplantation.

Conclusions:

  • Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in PI3Kγ-/- mice leads to increased pathogenic microorganisms and aggravated colitis.
  • PI3Kγ plays a critical role in mediating the therapeutic effects of MSCs in colitis.
  • Targeting PI3Kγ may be essential for optimizing MSC-based therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases.