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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
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Isolation, Culture, and Differentiation of Bone Marrow Stromal Cells and Osteoclast Progenitors from Mice
Published on: January 6, 2018
Age-related changes in osteogenic stem cells in mice
R J Bergman1, D Gazit, A J Kahn
1GRECC, West Los Angeles Veteran's Administration Medical Center, California, USA.
Summary
Aging reduces the number and responsiveness of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are crucial for forming new bone. This decline in osteogenic stem cell function contributes to age-related bone loss.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Marrow stromal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiate into osteogenic progenitor cells (OPCs), which then form osteoblasts.
- Age-related bone loss may stem from diminished osteoblast numbers or function, potentially linked to stem cell defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related changes in the quantity and in vitro function of osteogenic stem cells.
- To compare marrow cells from young (4-month-old) and old (24-month-old) male BALB/c mice.
Main Methods:
- Primary MSC cultures were established from young and old mice.
- Osteogenic progenitor cell colony formation was quantified.
- Basal and serum-stimulated proliferation rates were measured using 3H-thymidine uptake.
- Alkaline phosphatase activity and type I collagen production were assessed.
Main Results:
- Older mice had 41% fewer OPC colonies per marrow cell plated compared to younger mice.
- Basal proliferation was over three times higher in older MSC cultures, but their response to serum stimulation was significantly blunted.
- Both age groups showed similar rates of alkaline phosphatase expression and type I collagen production.
Conclusions:
- A reduced number and impaired proliferative capacity of MSCs likely contribute to age-related decreases in osteoblast number and function.
- These findings highlight the critical role of stem cell aging in bone health and disease.
