Comparative Transcriptome and MicroRNA Profiles of Equine Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Fibroblasts, and Their...

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising tool in regenerative medicine due to their ability to secrete paracrine factors that modulate tissue repair. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by MSCs contain bioactive molecules (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) and play a key role in intercellular communication. Methods: This study compared the transcriptomic profiles (mRNA and miRNA) of equine MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), bone marrow (BM-MSCs), and ovarian fibroblasts (as a differentiated control). Additionally, miRNAs present in EVs secreted by these cells were characterized using next-generation sequencing. Results: All cell types met ISCT criteria for MSCs, including CD90 expression, lack of MHC II, trilineage differentiation, and adherence. EVs were isolated using ultracentrifugation and validated with nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow cytometry (CD63, CD81). Differential expression analysis revealed distinct mRNA and miRNA profiles across cell types and their secreted EVs, correlating with tissue origin. BM-MSCs showed unique regulation of genes linked to early development and osteogenesis. EVs contained diverse RNA species, including miRNA, mRNA, lncRNA, rRNA, and others. In total, 227 and 256 mature miRNAs were detected in BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs, respectively, including two novel miRNAs per MSC type. Fibroblasts expressed 209 mature miRNAs, including one novel miRNA also found in MSCs. Compared to fibroblasts, 60 and 92 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in AT-MSCs and BM-MSCs, respectively. Conclusions: The results indicate that MSC tissue origin influences both transcriptomic profiles and EV miRNA content, which may help to interpret their therapeutic potential. Identifying key mRNAs and miRNAs could aid in future optimizing of MSC-based therapies in horses.