Modified mesenchymal stem cells for brain remodeling and motor recovery in a rodent stroke model

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 18K16577
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 56010:Neurosurgery-related
• Research Institution: University of Tsukuba
• Principal Investigator: Puentes Sandra 筑波大学, システム情報系, 助教 (00725765)
• Project Period (FY): 2018-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: Mesenchymal stem cells / Stroke / Neuroprotection / Microglial modulation

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This project evaluated the potential effect of modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for brain recovery after stroke. MSCs are known to be a source of tissue recovery because of their innate pluripotency and adaptability. However, it has been observed that these cells have poor migration skills. In contrast, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are known for their migration abilities. For this study, we modified MSCs derived from human fat with EPCs microvesicles, increasing their mobility. To test the ability of this modified population in vivo, a rodent model of stroke was used, and different cell populations were transplanted 24 hours after stroke onset. Groups were randomly split into young MSC, adult MSC (with and without modification), EPCs, microvesicles only, and bovine serum albumin (BSA) as control. The highest mortality rate was found for BSA. The best results were observed in young MSC-MV-treated animals, showing behavioral recovery, and reduced the inflammatory response.

Free Research Field

Neurosciences

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

Stroke is a devastating disease affecting millions. Despite improved care, interventions save lives but fail to prevent brain ischemia’s lasting motor disabilities. The economic and mental burden is significant. Our research emphasizes a novel cell population's potential in stroke immunomodulation.