Antler stem cells as a novel stem cell source for reducing liver fibrosis

In this study, we investigate the therapeutic effects of ASCs in a rat model of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Rats were treated with ASCs for 4  weeks in vivo, then biochemical and histopathological analyses were performed. Furthermore, we established cell co-culture systems of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and ASCs and of M1 macrophages and ASCs in vitro. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were used as a positive control. The results showed th at ASC transplantation alleviated liver fibrosis effectively as evidenced by reduced collagen accumulation, decreased fatty degeneration, increased hepatocyte regeneration, decreased inflammation and significantly enhanced liver function; moreover, ASCs decreased the expression of pro-fibrogenic fac tors including TGF-β and α-SMA. Additionally, our study showed that ASCs inhibit HSC activation and proliferation by controlling the expression of MMPs, TIMP1, TGF-β, α-SMA and COL1A2 involved in these processes. Our results suggested that ASCs alleviate liver fibrosis effectively and inhibit HS C activation. Thus, ASCs may serve as a novel stem cell source for the treatment of liver fibrosis in the clinic.
Source: Cell and Tissue Research - Category: Cytology Source Type: research