Improving motor neuron‑like cell differentiation of hEnSCs by the combination of epothilone B loaded PCL microspheres in optimized 3D collagen hydrogel

Scientific Reports, 2021 · DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01071-2 · Published: November 4, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Biomedical Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This research explores a new way to help the spinal cord heal after an injury. The approach involves using human endometrial stem cells (hEnSCs) combined with a special gel that releases a drug called epothilone B (EpoB). The gel, made of collagen, is designed to provide a supportive environment for the stem cells to grow and turn into motor neurons. Motor neurons are important nerve cells that control muscle movement. By combining the stem cells, the supportive gel, and the drug, the researchers hope to replace damaged neurons and improve recovery after spinal cord injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Patients providing endometrial biopsies

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The collagen hydrogel containing EpoB microspheres significantly improved the differentiation of hEnSCs into motor neuron-like cells.
2
The EpoB group had the highest HB9 and ISL-1 expression, which are key markers for mature motor neurons.
3
The EpoB group promoted the longest neurite elongation, indicating enhanced neuronal maturation and connectivity.

Research Summary

The study aimed to enhance the differentiation potential of hEnSCs into MN-like cells and axonal elongation using the signaling molecules sonic hedgehog (SHH) and retinoic acid (RA), and also by providing a hydrogel-based 3D microenvironment capable of controlling the release of EpoB using PCL microspheres. The fabricated 2-Col/PA-CH/Mic EpoB hydrogel achieved a higher neurite elongation than the mentioned studies. Our study demonstrates that incorporation of EpoB microspheres with collagen hydrogel can significantly increase the MN differentiation efficiency of hEnSCs by up-regulating ISL-1 and HB9, known as mature motor neuron key markers.

Practical Implications

Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

This research offers a promising new avenue for treating spinal cord injuries by combining stem cell therapy with targeted drug delivery.

Motor Neuron Disease Modeling

The developed 3D culture system can be used to model motor neuron diseases and test potential therapeutic agents.

Drug Delivery Systems

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of PCL microspheres for the sustained release of therapeutic agents in tissue engineering applications.

Study Limitations

1
The exact mechanism of EpoB and adapting it to the complex mechanism of SCI yet need to achieve a clear vision
2
The long-term effects of the EpoB-loaded microspheres on cell survival and function require further investigation.
3
The in vivo efficacy and safety of the 3D collagen hydrogel containing EpoB-loaded microspheres need to be evaluated in animal models.

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