Cytokines in umbilical cord blood-derived cellular product: a mechanistic insight into bone repair

Regen. Med., 2018 · DOI: 10.2217/rme-2018-0102 · Published: October 22, 2018

Genetics Orthopedics Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the potential of umbilical cord blood (UCB) to aid in bone repair. It focuses on the cytokines present in UCB and their role in stimulating cells involved in bone regeneration. The research suggests that UCB-derived products, rich in these cytokines, can promote cell growth, movement, and the formation of new blood vessels, all essential for bone healing.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

33 donors

Evidence Level

In vitro study

Key Findings

1
UCBp-CM elevated proliferation and migration rates of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and bone marrow stromal cells.
2
UCBp-CM induced secretion of VEGF-A and osteoprotegerin, which promoted angiogenesis of endothelial cells and positively influenced the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, respectively.
3
Cytokine profiling of the UCBp identified 44 different cytokines in the UCBp conditioned media (CM) which are essential for bone repair and regeneration.

Research Summary

The study aimed to determine the bone regenerative potential of a cellular allograft uniquely processed from UCB to optimize high MNC count and to enrich cytokine content. The UCBp-CM elevated proliferation and migration rates of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and bone marrow stromal cells, induced secretion of VEGF-A and osteoprotegerin, which promoted angiogenesis of endothelial cells and positively influenced the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. The data conclusively establish that UCBp is enriched in cytokines and growth factors that play an important role in bone regeneration and repair.

Practical Implications

Orthopedic Applications

UCBp shows potential for treating orthopedic complications like bone non-union and spinal fusion.

Cell-Free Therapies

The study supports the shift towards secretion-based therapies, suggesting cytokines in UCBp stimulate host cells for regeneration.

Allograft Improvement

Findings suggest that UCBp provides a reliable alternative to exogenous growth factors, ensuring complete bone remodeling.

Study Limitations

1
The study is primarily in vitro, and further in vivo studies are needed to validate the findings.
2
Comparative analysis of similar products to decipher the roles of cytokines in bone regeneration is needed.
3
Limited information on long-term effects and safety of UCBp in clinical applications.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Genetics