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Updated: Jun 6, 2025

Establishment of a Human Multiple Myeloma Xenograft Model in the Chicken to Study Tumor Growth, Invasion and Angiogenesis
Published on: May 1, 2015
Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Reticulated Platelets: New Horizons in Multiple Myeloma
Cristian Alejandro Mera Azaín1, Johan Leandro Vargas Pasquel1, Sandra Milena Quijano Gómez1
1Grupo Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá 110111, Colombia.
Abstract:
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant plasma cell disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and reticulated platelets (RPs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of MM. This narrative review aims to explore the role of MSCs and RPs in the pathophysiology of MM, particularly their clinical use as possible variables of prognostic value in this hematologic neoplasia. The interaction between MSCs and MM cells within the bone marrow microenvironment supports MM cell survival, proliferation, and drug resistance. MSCs contribute to the development and maintenance of MM through the secretion of various factors, including cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. Moreover, RPs, young and highly reactive platelets, have been implicated in promoting angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis in MM. Several studies show that cells such as MSCs and platelets participate actively in the biology of the disease. Still, in clinical practice, they are not considered part of evaluating affected patients. In this review, we explore the possibility of including the evaluation of MSCs and PRs in the clinical practice for patients with MM as part of the strategies to improve the outcomes of this disease.
Insights
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and reticulated platelets (RPs) play key roles in multiple myeloma (MM) development and progression. Evaluating MSCs and RPs could offer new prognostic markers for MM patients.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy.
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and reticulated platelets (RPs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in MM pathogenesis.
- The bone marrow microenvironment, influenced by MSCs and RPs, is critical for MM progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of MSCs and RPs in the pathophysiology of MM.
- To explore the potential clinical utility of MSCs and RPs as prognostic indicators in MM.
- To discuss the integration of MSC and RP evaluation into clinical practice for MM management.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review.
- Literature search on the involvement of MSCs and RPs in MM.
- Analysis of existing research on MM pathophysiology and potential biomarkers.
Main Results:
- MSCs support MM cell survival, proliferation, and drug resistance via secreted factors.
- RPs promote angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis in MM.
- Current clinical evaluations for MM do not typically include MSCs or RPs.
Conclusions:
- MSCs and RPs are integral to MM biology and progression.
- Evaluating MSCs and RPs may provide valuable prognostic information for MM patients.
- Incorporating MSC and RP assessment into clinical practice could enhance MM outcome prediction and management strategies.

