Comparative assessment of human chondroprogenitor viability and molecular phenotype in various parenteral transport media

Jeya Lisha John ¹, Gurbind Singh ², Ganesh Parasuraman ²

⁰Department of Physiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632002, India.

Histochemistry and Cell Biology +

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August 20, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Optimal parenteral solutions like normal saline, Plasma-lyte A, and 5% dextrose preserve chondroprogenitor cells for up to 12 hours. 5% dextrose shows potential for cartilage repair due to low hypertrophic markers.

Area Of Science

Regenerative Medicine
Biomaterials Science
Cell Biology

Background

Articular cartilage-derived chondroprogenitors are promising for cartilage repair.
Optimizing cell transport solutions is critical for clinical application.
Maintaining cell viability and function during storage is essential.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the impact of different parenteral solutions on chondroprogenitor cell viability, phenotype, and differentiation.
To determine optimal storage conditions for chondroprogenitors for up to 12 hours at 4°C.
To identify the best cell-delivery vehicle for cartilage regeneration.

Main Methods

Human fibronectin adhesion assay-derived chondroprogenitors (FAA-CPs) were suspended in normal saline, Plasma-lyte A, 5% dextrose, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma.
Cells were stored at 4°C for 0, 6, and 12 hours.
Viability was assessed using Vi-CELL BLU and calcein AM-propidium iodide staining.
Chondrogenic marker expression and differentiation potential were evaluated.

Main Results

Viability was maintained in normal saline, Plasma-lyte A, 5% dextrose, and hyaluronic acid, but decreased in platelet-rich plasma.
All solutions retained multilineage differentiation potential.
Enhanced chondrogenesis was observed in normal saline, Plasma-lyte A, and 5% dextrose.
5% dextrose demonstrated minimal collagen X accumulation, indicating low hypertrophic potential.

Conclusions

Normal saline, Plasma-lyte A, and 5% dextrose are optimal parenteral solutions for chondroprogenitor suspensions up to 12 hours.
5% dextrose is a promising cell-delivery vehicle for cartilage disease treatment due to its low hypertrophic potential.

Keywords:

5% dextrose Cartilage repair Cell delivery vehicle Chondroprogenitors Hyaluronic acid Normal saline Plasma-lyte A Platelet-rich plasma