Abstract

Differentiation of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells into cardiomyocytes and effect of it in myocardial infarction

Author(s): Lin Xiao-bo, Wang Tao, Wang Hong-wu, He Hong-yan, Ying Wen-jun, Lin Li-ming, Ma Gui-xia, Feng Xue-yong, Jiang Xue-wu, Shi Xue-chuan1,Yang Han-hua, Liu Xiao-shan, Jiang, Jikai, Ma Lian

To test the myocardiogenic potential of human umbilical cord -derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), MSCs were incubated for 24 hours in serum-free DulbeccoÂ’s Modified EagleÂ’s Medium (DMEM)containing 10ìmol/L 5-azacytidine(5-aza). Themediumwas then changed to DMEM/ 10% FBS for 4 weeks.Also, MSCs were incubated for 24 hours in serumfreeDMEMcontaining 0.8%dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Themediumwas then changed to DMEM/10% FBS for 3 weeks. The expression of cardiac desmin, troponin I and troponin T was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in the differentiated myogenic cells. RT-PCR was used to test the expression ofNkx2 .5 and troponin I cDNAin the cells induced.Myofilament and change of cell shape were examined by Transmission ElectronMicroscope and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Our result showed that MSCs derived fromhuman umbilical cord retainedmyocardiogenic potential and could be induced into cardiomyocytes by both 5-azacytidine and DMSO, suggesting a suitable approach for cell therapy and transplantation.