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Author Spotlight: Induced Microglia-Like Cell Technology to Shed Light on the Role of Microglial Dysfunction in Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Published on: September 6, 2024
Photobiomodulation Combined With Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulates the Polarization of Microglia
Chunyan Ma1,2, Hongyu Zhu1, Yuanhao Cai1,3
1State Key Laboratory of Separation Membranes and Membrane Processes & Key Laboratory of Hollow Fiber Membrane Materials and Membrane Processes, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Detection Technology and Systems, Tiangong University, Tianjin, China.
Abstract:
Neuroinflammation plays a key role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, with microglia regulating this process through pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Studies have shown that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) modulate neuroinflammation by secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive therapy, has demonstrated significant potential in alleviating neuroinflammation. This study examines the combined effects of PBM and hUCMSCs in an in vitro microglial inflammation model and an LPS-induced mouse model. The results show that PBM-pretreated hUCMSCs promoted M2 polarization and improved cognitive function in mice by downregulating the Notch signaling pathway, suggesting a promising new approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Insights
Combining photobiomodulation (PBM) with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) reduces neuroinflammation. This novel approach promotes M2 microglia polarization and enhances cognitive function in mice by modulating the Notch signaling pathway.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Neuroinflammation, driven by microglial phenotypes (M1/M2), is central to neurodegenerative diseases.
- Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) possess immunomodulatory properties via anti-inflammatory cytokines.
- Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapy showing promise in mitigating neuroinflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the synergistic effects of PBM and hUCMSCs on neuroinflammation.
- To evaluate the impact of combined therapy on microglial polarization.
- To assess the therapeutic potential in preclinical models of neurodegeneration.
Main Methods:
- Established an in vitro microglial inflammation model.
- Utilized an LPS-induced mouse model for in vivo studies.
- Analyzed microglial polarization (M1/M2) and Notch signaling pathway activity.
Main Results:
- PBM-pretreated hUCMSCs significantly modulated neuroinflammation.
- The combined therapy promoted a shift towards anti-inflammatory M2 microglia polarization.
- Downregulation of the Notch signaling pathway was observed, correlating with improved cognitive function in mice.
Conclusions:
- Combined PBM and hUCMSCs represent a promising therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.
- The treatment effectively reduces neuroinflammation and enhances cognitive function.
- Modulation of the Notch signaling pathway is a key mechanism underlying the observed therapeutic benefits.
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