Differentiation potential of human amniotic fluid derived-mesenchymal stem cells into dopaminergic neurons

Stem cell-based therapies have emerged as promising alternatives for disease modification and cell replacement, aiming to improve the quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. Human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells (hAF-MSCs) represent a viable source due to their self-renewal ability, high proliferative capacity, and multipotent differentiation potential. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro differentiation potential of hAF-MSCs into dopaminergic neurons. Flow cytometry and Alamar blue assays were employed to confirm mesenchymal stem cell characteristics. The hAF-derived cells fulfilled the established MSCs criteria, including fibroblast-like morphology, surface marker expression, and proliferative capacity. Upon induction with dopaminergic differentiation factors, the cells acquired neuron-like morphology. RT-qPCR analysis revealed significantly upregulated expression of neuronal and dopaminergic-specific genes (nestin, β-III-tubulin, and tyrosine hydroxylase), further supported by immunofluorescent staining showing the presence of neuron-related proteins. These findings demonstrate the potential of hAF-MSCs to differentiate into dopaminergic neurons and highlight their promise for future applications in regenerative medicine.