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Abstract Stem cell therapies have emerged as a promising approach in regenerative medicine, demonstrating potential in personalized medicine, disease modeling, and drug discovery. Therapies based on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) particularly stand out for their ability to differentiate into various cell types while avoiding ethical concerns. However, the development and application of these therapies are influenced by varying regulatory frameworks across countries. This study provides a comparative analysis of regulations and research on stem cell therapies in key regions: The European Union (EU), Switzerland, South Korea, Japan, and the United States. First, the study reviews the regulatory frameworks on stem cell therapies. The EU and Switzerland maintain rigorous guidelines that prioritize safety and ethical considerations, which can hinder innovation. In contrast, the United States adopts a more flexible regulatory stance, facilitating the rapid development of stem cell therapies. South Korea and Japan take a balanced approach by incorporating practices from both regimes. These regulatory differences reflect each country’s unique priorities and impact the pace and scope of stem cell therapy development. Moreover, the study examines global trends in clinical trials on stem cell treatments based on data obtained from two sources: ClinicalTrials.gov and ICTRP. Findings indicate a significant growth in the number of clinical trials since 2008, particularly in that involving iPSCs. Therapeutic studies involving iPSCs predominantly target conditions affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems which are considered vital. The results put emphasis on the safety of stem cell treatments. Meanwhile, the number of such trials also varies by country. The United States and Japan, where relatively flexible guidelines on stem cell research are adopted, are in a leading position. However, countries in the EU fall behind with rigorous regulations imposed. This reflects the need for more flexible regulatory guidance for active development of stem cell therapies. The findings underscore the importance of legal frameworks in facilitating innovation while ensuring safety. Regulatory agencies in different countries should collaborate to achieve a balanced global standard to ensure the safe and efficient advancement of stem cell therapies. Global regulatory convergence will promote international collaboration in research and the applicability of new treatments. more...

With the aging population, the incidence of degenerative diseases such as dementia and arthritis is on the rise. To combat these diseases, cell therapies using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are being developed worldwide. However, challenges such as high development costs and immune compatibility persist. Thus, methods such as generating patient-specific iPSCs or genetically edited iPSCs with deleted immune-related genes are being researched. Applying these approaches is limited due to high cost and safety concerns of gene editing. Therefore, we focused on an alternative method using human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-homozygous cell lines, which could overcome immune rejection issues economically. We investigated diseases that could potentially be treated with cell therapy and identified which HLA-homozygous cell lines could be most effectively used for the efficient production of therapeutic cell lines. The results of the study showed that cell therapy could be applied to a wide range of diseases, and expanding the population that can benefit from HLA-homozygous iPSC lines could help popularize these treatment methods. We highlight the necessity of a global HLA-homozygous iPSC bank. more...

Abstract Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disease that causes permanent impairment of motor, sensory, and autonomic nervous system functions. Stem cell transplantation for neuron regeneration is a promising strategic treatment for SCI. However, selecting stem cell sources and cell transplantation based on experimental evidence is required. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of combination cell transplantation using the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) over-expressing engineered mesenchymal stem cell (BDNF-eMSC) and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived motor neuron progenitor cell (iMNP) in a chronic SCI rat model. Method A contusive chronic SCI was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats. At 6 weeks post-injury, BDNF-eMSC and iMNP were transplanted into the lesion site via the intralesional route. At 12 weeks post-injury, differentiation and growth factors were evaluated through immunofluorescence staining and western blot analysis. Motor neuron differentiation and neurite outgrowth were evaluated by co-culturing BDNF-eMSC and iMNP in vitro in 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional. Results Combination cell transplantation in the chronic SCI model improved behavioral recovery more than single-cell transplantation. Additionally, combination cell transplantation enhanced mature motor neuron differentiation and axonal regeneration at the injured spinal cord. Both BDNF-eMSC and iMNP played a critical role in neurite outgrowth and motor neuron maturation via BDNF expression. Conclusions Our results suggest that the combined transplantation of BDNF- eMSC and iMNP in chronic SCI results in a significant clinical recovery. The transplanted iMNP cells predominantly differentiated into mature motor neurons. Additionally, BDNF-eMSC exerts a paracrine effect on neuron regeneration through BDNF expression in the injured spinal cord. Graphical Abstract more...

Abstract Researchers have attempted to generate transfusable oxygen carriers to mitigate RBC supply shortages. In vitro generation of RBCs using stem cells such as hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has shown promise. Specifically, the limited supplies of HSPCs and ethical issues with ESCs make iPSCs the most promising candidate for in vitro RBC generation. However, researchers have encountered some major challenges when using iPSCs to produce transfusable RBC products, such as enucleation and RBC maturation. In addition, it has proven difficult to manufacture these products on a large scale. In this review, we provide a brief overview of erythropoiesis and examine endeavors to recapitulate erythropoiesis in vitro using various cell sources. Furthermore, we explore the current obstacles and potential solutions aimed at enabling the large-scale production of transfusable RBCs in vitro. more...

Abstract Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an intractable neurological disease in which functions cannot be permanently restored due to nerve damage. Stem cell therapy is a promising strategy for neuroregeneration after SCI. However, experimental evidence of its therapeutic effect in SCI is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of transplanted cells using stepwise combined cell therapy with human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived motor neuron progenitor cells (iMNP) in a rat model of SCI. Methods A contusive SCI model was developed in Sprague-Dawley rats using multicenter animal spinal cord injury study (MASCIS) impactor. Three protocols were designed and conducted as follows: (Subtopic 1) chronic SCI + iMNP, (Subtopic 2) acute SCI + multiple hMSC injections, and (Main topic) chronic SCI + stepwise combined cell therapy using multiple preemptive hMSC and iMNP. Neurite outgrowth was induced by coculturing hMSC and iPSC-derived motor neuron (iMN) on both two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) spheroid platforms during mature iMN differentiation in vitro. Results Stepwise combined cell therapy promoted mature motor neuron differentiation and axonal regeneration at the lesional site. In addition, stepwise combined cell therapy improved behavioral recovery and was more effective than single cell therapy alone. In vitro results showed that hMSC and iMN act synergistically and play a critical role in the induction of neurite outgrowth during iMN differentiation and maturation. Conclusions Our findings show that stepwise combined cell therapy can induce alterations in the microenvironment for effective cell therapy in SCI. The in vitro results suggest that co-culturing hMSC and iMN can synergistically promote induction of MN neurite outgrowth. Graphical Abstract more...

Abstract Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease that impairs bone mineral density, microarchitecture, and strength. It requires continuous management, and further research into new treatment options is necessary. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) inhibits bone resorption and osteoclast activity. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of stepwise administration of OPG-encoded minicircles (mcOPG) and a bone formation regulator, parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP)-encoded minicircles (mcPTHrP) in osteoporosis. The combined treatment with mcOPG and mcPTHrP significantly increased osteogenic marker expression in osteoblast differentiation compared with the single treatment groups. A model of postmenopausal osteoporosis was established in 12-week-old female rats through ovariectomy (OVX). After 8 weeks of OVX, mcOPG (80 µg/kg) was administered via intravenous injection. After 16 weeks of OVX, mcPTHrP (80 µg/kg) was injected once a week for 3 weeks. The bone microstructure in the femur was evaluated 24 weeks after OVX using micro-CT. In a proof-of-concept study, stepwise treatment with mcOPG and mcPTHrP on an OVX rat model significantly improved bone microstructure compared to treatment with mcOPG or mcPTHrP alone. These results suggest that stepwise treatment with mcOPG and mcPTHrP may be a potential treatment for osteoporosis. more...

Abstract Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly, resulting in gradual destruction of cognitive abilities. Research on the development of various AD treatments is underway; however, no definitive treatment has been developed yet. Herein, we present induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cortical neural stem cell secretome (CNSC-SE) as a new treatment candidate for AD and explore its efficacy. Methods We first assessed the effects of CNSC-SE treatment on neural maturation and electromagnetic signal during cortical nerve cell differentiation. Then to confirm the efficacy in vivo, CNSC-SE was administered to the 5×FAD mouse model through the nasal cavity (5 μg/g, once a week, 4 weeks). The cell-mediated effects on nerve recovery, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque aggregation, microglial and astrocyte detection in the brain, and neuroinflammatory responses were investigated. Metabolomics analysis of iPSC-derived CNSC-SE revealed that it contained components that could exert neuro-protective effects or amplify cognitive restorative effects. Results Human iPSC-derived CNSC-SE increased neuronal proliferation and dendritic structure formation in vitro. Furthermore, CNSC-SE-treated iPSC-derived cortical neurons acquired electrical network activity and action potential bursts. The 5×FAD mice treated with CNSC-SE showed memory restoration and reduced Aβ plaque accumulation. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the iPSC-derived CNSC-SE may serve as a potential, non-invasive therapeutic option for AD in reducing amyloid infiltration and restoring memory. more...

Introducción: La homofobia es un importante problema social, en particular para los adolescentes. La discriminación y el desprecio a que son sometidos aquellos adolescentes homosexuales o los que tienen dudas en torno a su identidad sexual, tiene consecuencias adversas en todo su desarrollo ulterior. Detectar y enfrentar conductas homofóbicas en los colegios, resulta clave si pretendemos una sociedad justa y sana, donde la convivencia con la diversidad se respete. La UNESCO invita a todas las sociedades a enfrentar estas conductas desde la ética individual y las políticas públicas en ambientes escolares. Objetivos: Conocer la prevalencia de homofobia en los adolescentes escolarizados de un colegio de la localidad de suba en la ciudad de Bogotá e identificar los métodos preventivos. Metodología: Se aplicó una encuesta presencial auto diligenciada y dicotómica a estudiantes de sexto a once grados, indagando por variables sociodemográficas y utilizando un test cuantitativo, en donde el total de su sumatoria indica si es o no homofóbico. Resultados: Se encuestaron 843 estudiantes. El 24,9% de la población encuestada no son homofóbicos, el 49,1% aún tienen algunos prejuicios y el 26% son homofóbicos. Se compararon los homofóbicos versus los no homofóbicos entre sexo femenino y masculino obteniendo como relaciones significativas un OR de 0.25, IC 95% Li 0.16 y Ls 0.37, también se comparó la homofobia versus la no homofobia entre edades de 13-15 años con 10-12 años obteniendo OR de 0.43, Li 0,27 y Ls 0,70, entre edades de 16-19 años con 10-12 años obteniendo OR de 0.3, Li 0.17 y Ls 0.51 y finalmente entre edades de 16-19 años con 13-15 años obteniendo OR 0.68, Li 0.42 y Ls 1.09. Conclusión: La homofobia es un rechazo que se puede generar de manera involuntaria a través del desprecio y la discriminación, ya que no se tiene en común la misma orientación social, pensamientos o ideologías. Se encontró que el 26% de los adolescentes escolarizados son homofóbicos. Se evidenció mayores actitudes homofóbicas en el sexo masculino que el femenino y se observó que entre menos edad entre los adolescentes, hay más actitudes homofóbicas. more...

Abstract Background The rarity of systemic sclerosis (SSc) has hampered the development of therapies for this intractable autoimmune disease. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) can be differentiated into the key disease-affected cells in vitro. The generation of patient-derived iPSCs has opened up possibilities for rare disease modeling. Since these cells can recapitulate the disease phenotypes of the cell in question, they are useful high-throughput platforms for screening for drugs that can reverse these abnormal phenotypes. Methods SSc iPSC was generated from PBMC by Sendai virus. Human iPSC lines from SSc patients were differentiated into dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes. The iPSC-derived differentiated cells from the SSc patients were used on high-throughput platforms to screen for FDA-approved drugs that could be effective treatments for SSc. Results Skin organoids were generated from these cells exhibited fibrosis that resembled SSc skin. Screening of the 770-FDA-approved drug library showed that the anti-osteoporotic drug raloxifene reduced SSc iPSC-derived fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix production and skin fibrosis in organoids and bleomycin-induced SSc-model mice. Conclusions This study reveals that a disease model of systemic sclerosis generated using iPSCs-derived skin organoid is a novel tool for in vitro and in vivo dermatologic research. Since raloxifene and bazedoxifene are well-tolerated anti-osteoporotic drugs, our findings suggest that selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)-class drugs could treat SSc fibrosis. more...

Abstract Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a skin discoloration process that occurs following an inflammatory response or wound. As the skin begins to heal, macrophages first exhibit a proinflammatory phenotype (M1) during the early stages of tissue repair and then transition to a pro-healing, anti-inflammatory phenotype (M2) in later stages. During this process, M1 macrophages remove invading bacteria and M2 macrophages remodel surrounding tissue; however, the relationship between macrophages and pigmentation is unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of macrophages on melanin pigmentation using human induced pluripotent stem cells. Functional melanocytes were differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells and named as hiMels. The generated hiMels were then individually cocultured with M1 and M2 macrophages. Melanin synthesis decreased in hiMels cocultured with M1 macrophages but significantly increased in hiMels cocultured with M2 macrophages. Moreover, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor was increased in M2 cocultured media. Our findings suggest that M2 macrophages, and not M1 macrophages, induce hyperpigmentation in scarred areas of the skin during tissue repair. more...

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common condition in patients with dementia and affects a large population worldwide. The incidence of AD is expected to increase in future owing to the rapid expansion of the aged population globally. Researchers have shown that women are twice more likely to be affected by AD than men. This phenomenon has been attributed to the postmenopausal state, during which the level of estrogen declines significantly. Estrogen is known to alleviate neurotoxicity in the brain and protect neurons. While the effects of estrogen have been investigated in AD models, to our knowledge, they have not been investigated in a stem cell-based three-dimensional in vitro system. Here, we designed a new model for AD using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in a three-dimensional, in vitro culture system. We used 5xFAD mice to confirm the potential of estrogen in alleviating the effects of AD pathogenesis. Next, we confirmed a similar trend in an AD model developed using iPSC-derived cerebral organoids, in which the key characteristics of AD were recapitulated. The findings emphasized the potential of estrogen as a treatment agent for AD and also showed the suitability of AD-recapitulating cerebral organoids as a reliable platform for disease modeling and drug screening. more...

Abstract Background Common variable immunodeficiency disorders (CVID) are a rare group of primary immune defects, where the underlying cause is unknown. Approximately 10–20% of patients with typical CVID have a granulomatous variant, which has closely overlapping features with sarcoidosis. Case presentation Here we describe a young man who sequentially developed refractory Evans syndrome, cauda equina syndrome and most recently renal impairment. Following immunosuppression, he has made a recovery from all three life-threatening autoimmune disorders. As the patient was hypogammaglobulinemic for most of the time while on immunosuppression, vaccine challenges and other tests were not possible. Histological features were in keeping with sarcoidosis rather than the granulomatous variant of CVID. In the brief period when immunosuppression was lifted between the cauda equina syndrome and renal impairment, he normalised his immunoglobulins, confirming sarcoidosis rather than CVID was the underlying cause. Conclusion We discuss diagnostic difficulties distinguishing the two conditions, and the value of histological features in our diagnostic criteria for CVID in identifying sarcoidosis, while the patient was hypogammaglobulinemic. The key message from this case report is that the characteristic histological features of CVID can be very helpful in making (or excluding) the diagnosis, particularly when other tests are not possible. more...

We examined whether it is possible to directly detect citrullinated antigens in the serum of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using a monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed to be specific for citrullinated peptides. In order to confirm the potential of the mAb as a direct arthritis-inducing substance through experimental model of RA, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) 12G1 was generated using by immunization of mice with a challenging cyclic citrullinated peptide. Immunohistochemical analysis of RA-affected synovial tissue showed that our mAb 12G1 could indeed detect citrullinated proteins in target tissues. Subsequently, serum levels of citrullinated type II collagen and filaggrin were measured in healthy volunteers, patients with RA, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) using a 12G1-based sandwich ELISA. This showed that citrullinated filaggrin showed 78.9% sensitivity and 85.9% specificity for RA diagnosis with a cutoff optical density (OD) value of 1.013, comparable with the results from a second-generation anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) test. Circulating citrullinated collagen and filaggrin were detected even in sera of RA patients who were negative for both rheumatoid factor (RF) and ACPA. ELISA results also showed that RF and ACPA titers showed significantly positive correlation with both citrullinated collagen and filaggrin OD values in sera of RA patients. 12G1 challenging aggravated the severity of murine arthritis. In summary, mAb 12G1 can directly detect citrullinated proteins in RA target tissue and in sera of RA patients and 12G1 showed direct arthritogenic potential in vivo. This, 12G1 might be useful for diagnosis of RA including seronegative RA and may help to elucidate the pathophysiological role of citrullination in RA. more...

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies have been used as cell-based treatments for decades, owing to their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative properties. With high expectations, many ongoing clinical trials are investigating the safety and efficacy of MSC therapies to treat arthritic diseases. Studies on osteoarthritis (OA) have shown positive clinical outcomes, with improved joint function, pain level, and quality of life. In addition, few clinical MSC trials conducted on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have also displayed some optimistic outlook. The largely positive outcomes in clinical trials without severe side effects establish MSCs as promising tools for arthritis treatment. However, further research is required to investigate its applicability in clinical settings. This review discusses the most recent advances in clinical studies on MSC therapies for OA and RA. more...

Abstract Background Methotrexate (MTX) is widely used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The drug is cost-effective, but sometimes causes hepatotoxicity, requiring a physician’s attention. In this study, we simulated hepatotoxicity by treating hepatocytes derived from RA patient–derived induced pluripotent stem cells (RA-iPSCs) with MTX. Methods RA-iPSCs and healthy control iPSCs (HC-iPSCs) were established successfully. RA-iPSCs were differentiated into hepatocytes in two-dimensional (2D) monolayers and three-dimensional (3D) hepatocyte spheroid cultures; this process required growth factors such as BMP4, bFGF, HGF, and OSM. Immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry were performed to confirm that the mature hepatocytes expressed cytokeratin 18, anti–alpha-1 antitrypsin, and albumin. MTX toxicity was evaluated via monitoring of cell viability, alanine aminotransferase, and mitochondrial status after MTX treatment in 2D and 3D cultures. Results RA-iPSCs generated from three RA patients suffering from MTX-induced hepatotoxicity differentiated into the endoderm lineage, hepatoblasts, and hepatocytes. In 2D culture, RA-iPSC-derived hepatocytes were more sensitive to MTX than healthy controls. A 3D culture system using hepatocyte spheroids also successfully recapitulated MTX-induced hepatotoxicity. The 3D culture system had several advantages, including longer culture periods under more complex conditions. Conclusions A patient-derived iPSC platform could recapitulate MTX toxicity. Simulation of drug toxicity in vitro may help clinicians choose safer drugs or less toxic doses. more...

Abstract Background Skin is an organ that plays an important role as a physical barrier and has many other complex functions. Skin mimetics may be useful for studying the pathophysiology of diseases in vitro and for repairing lesions in vivo. Cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs) have emerged as a potential cell source for regenerative medicine. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from CBMCs have great potential for allogenic regenerative medicine. Further study is needed on skin differentiation using CBMC-iPSCs. Methods Human iPSCs were generated from CBMCs by Sendai virus. CBMC-iPSCs were differentiated to fibroblasts and keratinocytes using embryonic body formation. To generate CBMC-iPSC-derived 3D skin organoid, CBMC-iPSC-derived fibroblasts were added into the insert of a Transwell plate and CBMC-iPSC-derived keratinocytes were seeded onto the fibroblast layer. Transplantation of 3D skin organoid was performed by the tie-over dressing method. Results Epidermal and dermal layers were developed using keratinocytes and fibroblasts differentiated from cord blood-derived human iPSCs, respectively. A complex 3D skin organoid was generated by overlaying the epidermal layer onto the dermal layer. A humanized skin model was generated by transplanting this human skin organoid into SCID mice and effectively healed skin lesions. Conclusions This study reveals that a human skin organoid generated using CBMC iPSCs is a novel tool for in-vitro and in-vivo dermatologic research. more...

Since their discovery in 2006, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have shown promising potential, specifically because of their accessibility and plasticity. Hence, the clinical applicability of iPSCs was investigated in various fields of research. However, only a few iPSC studies pertaining to osteoarthritis (OA) have been performed so far, despite the high prevalence rate of degenerative joint disease. In this review, we discuss some of the most recent applications of iPSCs in disease modeling and the construction of 3D models in various fields, specifically focusing on osteoarthritis and OA-related conditions. Notably, we comprehensively reviewed the successful results of iPSC-derived disease models in recapitulating OA phenotypes for both OA and early-onset OA to encompass their broad etiology. Moreover, the latest publications with protocols that have used iPSCs to construct 3D models in recapitulating various conditions, particularly the OA environment, were further discussed. With the overall optimistic results seen in both fields, iPSCs are expected to be more widely used for OA disease modeling and 3D model construction, which could further expand OA drug screening, risk assessment, and therapeutic capabilities. more...

Background: Adults with primary hypogammaglobulinemia are frequently encountered by clinicians. Where IgG levels are markedly decreased, most patients are treated with subcutaneous or intravenous immunoglobulin (SCIG/IVIG), because of the presumed risk of severe infections. The natural history of untreated severe asymptomatic hypogammaglobulinemia is thus unknown. Similarly, there are no long-term prospective studies examining the natural history of patients with moderate reductions in IgG.Methods: In 2006, we began a prospective cohort study of patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic reductions in IgG who were not immediately commenced on SCIG/IVIG. Over the course of 12 years, 120 patients were enrolled in the NZ hypogammaglobulinemia study (NZHS) including 59 who were asymptomatic.Results: Five patients with profound primary hypogammaglobulinemia (IgG < 3 g/l), who were not on regular SCIG/IVIG have remained well for a mean duration of 139 months. This study has also shown most asymptomatic patients with moderate hypogammaglobulinemia (IgG 3.0–6.9 g/l) have been in good health for a mean observation period of 96 months. We have only identified one asymptomatic patient with moderate hypogammaglobulinemia who experienced progressive decline in IgG levels to more...

Regeneration of articular cartilage is of great interest in cartilage tissue engineering since articular cartilage has a low regenerative capacity. Due to the difficulty in obtaining healthy cartilage for transplantation, there is a need to develop an alternative and effective regeneration therapy to treat degenerative or damaged joint diseases. Stem cells including various adult stem cells and pluripotent stem cells are now actively used in tissue engineering. Here, we provide an overview of the current status of cord blood cells and induced pluripotent stem cells derived from these cells in cartilage regeneration. The abilities of these cells to undergo chondrogenic differentiation are also described. Finally, the technical challenges of articular cartilage regeneration and future directions are discussed. more...

Gene delivery systems have become an essential component of research and the development of therapeutics for various diseases. Minicircles are non-viral vectors with promising characteristics for application in a variety of fields. With their minimal size, minicircles exhibit relatively high safety and efficient delivery of genes of interest into cells. Cartilage tissue lacks the natural ability to heal, making it difficult to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which are the two main types of joint-related disease. Although both OA and RA affect the joint, RA is an autoimmune disease, while OA is a degenerative joint condition. Gene transfer using minicircles has also been used in many studies regarding cartilage and its diseased conditions. In this review, we summarize the cartilage-, OA-, and RA-based studies that have used minicircles as the gene delivery system. more...

Early osteoarthritis (OA)-like symptoms are difficult to study owing to the lack of disease samples and animal models. In this study, we generated induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines from a patient with a radiographic early-onset finger osteoarthritis (efOA)-like condition in the distal interphalangeal joint and her healthy sibling. We differentiated those cells with similar genetic backgrounds into chondrogenic pellets (CPs) to confirm efOA. CPs generated from efOA-hiPSCs (efOA-CPs) showed lower levels of COL2A1, which is a key marker of hyaline cartilage after complete differentiation, for 21 days. Increase in pellet size and vacuole-like morphologies within the pellets were observed in the efOA-CPs. To analyze the changes occurred during the development of vacuole-like morphology and the increase in pellet size in efOA-CPs, we analyzed the expression of OA-related markers on day 7 of differentiation and showed an increase in the levels of COL1A1, RUNX2, VEGFA, and AQP1 in efOA-CPs. IL-6, MMP1, and MMP10 levels were also increased in the efOA-CPs. Taken together, we present proof-of-concept regarding disease modeling of a unique patient who showed OA-like symptoms. more...

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease where the main characteristics include cartilage degeneration and synovial membrane inflammation. These changes in the knee joint eventually dampen the function of the joint and restrict joint movement, which eventually leads to a stage where total joint replacement is the only treatment option. While much is still unknown about the pathogenesis and progression mechanism of OA, joint fibrosis can be a critical issue for better understanding this disease. Synovial fibrosis and the generation of fibrocartilage are the two main fibrosis-related characteristics that can be found in OA. However, these two processes remain mostly misunderstood. In this review, we focus on the fibrosis process in OA, especially in the cartilage and the synovium tissue, which are the main tissues involved in OA. more...

Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been observed to inhibit arthritis in experimental animal models such as collagen-induced arthritis. However, the exact anti-inflammatory mechanisms remain poorly understood. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine produced by immune and stromal cells. We postulated that MSCs could produce IL-1Ra and attenuate experimental arthritis. In this study, 5x106 MSCs were injected into the peritoneal cavity of IL-1Ra knockout (IL-1RaKO) mice. MSCs reduced the severity of the arthritis by histology and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in IL-1RaKO mice. The ratio of splenic T helper 17 (Th17) cells to regulatory T cells (Treg) was significantly decreased in MSC-injected IL-1RaKO mice. Purified splenic CD4+ T cells from mice in each of the treatment groups were cultured under Th17 polarizing conditions and analyzed by flow cytometry. Less expansion of the Th17 population was observed in the MSC-treated group. Interestingly, MSCs expressed inducible IL-1Ra against inflammatory environmental stimuli. Human recombinant IL-1Ra could suppress Th17 cells differentiation under Th17 polarizing conditions. These results indicate that IL-1Ra expressed by MSCs can inhibit Th17 polarization and decrease the immune response in IL-1RaKO mice. Therefore, MSC-derived IL-1Ra may inhibit inflammation in IL-1RaKO mice via effects on Th17 differentiation. more...

It is unclear how systemic administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) controls local inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of human MSCs on inflammatory arthritis and to identify the underlying mechanisms. Mice with collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) received two intraperitoneal injections of human bone marrow-derived MSCs. The clinical and histological features of injected CAIA were then compared with those of non-injected mice. The effect of MSCs on induction of regulatory T cells was examined both in vitro and in vivo. We also examined multiple cytokines secreted by peritoneal mononuclear cells, along with migration of MSCs in the presence of stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α) and/or regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES). Sections of CAIA mouse joints and spleen were stained for human anti-nuclear antibodies (ANAs) to confirm migration of injected human MSCs. The results showed that MSCs alleviated the clinical and histological signs of synovitis in CAIA mice. Peritoneal lavage cells from mice treated with MSCs expressed higher levels of SDF-1α and RANTES than those from mice not treated with MSCs. MSC migration was more prevalent in the presence of SDF-1α and/or RANTES. MSCs induced CD4+ T cells to differentiate into regulatory T cells in vitro, and expression of FOXP3 mRNA was upregulated in the forepaws of MSC-treated CAIA mice. Synovial and splenic tissues from CAIA mice receiving human MSCs were positive for human ANA, suggesting recruitment of MSCs. Taken together, these results suggest that MSCs migrate into inflamed tissues and directly induce the differentiation of CD4+ T cells into regulatory T cells, which then suppress inflammation. Thus, systemic administration of MSCs may be a therapeutic option for rheumatoid arthritis. more...

The process of cartilage destruction in the diarthrodial joint is progressive and irreversible. This destruction is extremely difficult to manage and frustrates researchers, clinicians, and patients. Patients often take medication to control their pain. Surgery is usually performed when pain becomes uncontrollable or joint function completely fails. There is an unmet clinical need for a regenerative strategy to treat cartilage defect without surgery due to the lack of a suitable regenerative strategy. Clinicians and scientists have tried to address this using stem cells, which have a regenerative potential in various tissues. Cartilage may be an ideal target for stem cell treatment because it has a notoriously poor regenerative potential. In this review, we describe past, present, and future strategies to regenerate cartilage in patients. Specifically, this review compares a surgical regenerative technique (microfracture) and cell therapy, cell therapy with and without a scaffold, and therapy with nonaggregated and aggregated cells. We also review the chondrogenic potential of cells according to their origin, including autologous chondrocytes, mesenchymal stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. more...

Scientists have tried to reprogram various origins of primary cells into human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Every somatic cell can theoretically become a hiPSC and give rise to targeted cells of the human body. However, there have been debates on the controversy about the differentiation propensity according to the origin of primary cells. We reprogrammed hiPSCs from four different types of primary cells such as dermal fibroblasts (DF, n=3), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC, n=3), cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC, n=3), and osteoarthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (OAFLS, n=3). Established hiPSCs were differentiated into chondrogenic pellets. All told, cartilage-specific markers tended to express more by the order of CBMC > DF > PBMC > FLS. Origin of primary cells may influence the reprogramming and differentiation thereafter. In the context of chondrogenic propensity, CBMC-derived hiPSCs can be a fairly good candidate cell source for cartilage regeneration. The differentiation of hiPSCs into chondrocytes may help develop “cartilage in a dish” in the future. Also, the ideal cell source of hiPSC for chondrogenesis may contribute to future application as well. more...

Human degenerative cartilage has low regenerative potential. Chondrocyte transplantation offers a promising strategy for cartilage treatment and regeneration. Currently, chondrogenesis using human pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is accomplished using human recombinant growth factors. Here, we differentiate hiPSCs into chondrogenic pellets using minicircle vectors. Minicircles are a non-viral gene delivery system that can produce growth factors without integration into the host genome. We generated minicircle vectors containing bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFβ3) and delivered them to mesenchymal stem cell-like, hiPSC-derived outgrowth (OG) cells. Cell pellets generated using minicircle-transfected OG cells successfully differentiated into the chondrogenic lineage. The implanted minicircle-based chondrogenic pellets recovered the osteochondral defects in rat models. This work is a proof-of-concept study that describes the potential application of minicircle vectors in cartilage regeneration using hiPSCs. more...

Purpose: Grounded in the occupational socialization theory, this study explored how gender interacted with and influenced socialization experiences in the careers of South Korean female physical educators. Specific attention was directed toward the gendered experiences that female teachers experienced and the coping strategies to navigate them. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative case study design, and the participants were 15 female secondary school physical educators. Data were collected through life story timelines, critical incident writings, and individual interviews. Results: Four themes emerged: (a) unwelcomed and invisible; (b) experiencing a physicality-driven hierarchy; (c) dual marginalization as female physical educators; and (d) retreating, masking, redefining, or leaving to cope with challenges. Discussion/Conclusions: The findings indicated that female physical educators experienced being dual-marginalized due to the interplay between gender and subject matter. In response to the challenges, some conformed to their gender role to be safe; however, other teachers employed various strategies to overcome the status quo. more...

ABSTRACT Introduction: Candida albicans is a local commensal flora of the oral cavity, with opportunistic nature and often causes oral candidiasis in HIV/AIDS patients. Since long time, Mahkota Dewa (Phaleria macrocarpa) known of having efficacy treat various disease traditionally. The purpose of this study was to determine the activity test of Phaleria macrocarpa leaves extract against Candida albicans from HIV/AIDS patients. Methods: Experimental laboratory with samples colonies of the Candida albicans fungus obtained from patients with HIV/AIDS at Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital Padang. Research conducted during January-March 2016 in Microbiology and Chemistry Laboratory of Kopertis Region X, Microbiology Laboratory of Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital, and Microbiology Laboratory of Siti Rahmah Islamic Hospital, Padang, West Sumatra. Data analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The concentration of the Phaleria Macrocarpa leaves extract used in this study was 10, 20, 40 and 80%. Inhibition zone average value obtained 0,00 mm, means no inhibition zone, 9.217 mm and 18.017 mm with sig = 0.000 more...

Epidemiological studies show an association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontal disease. Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.gingivalis) is a well-known pathogen in periodontitis. This study investigated the pathogenic effects of P.gingivalis on autoimmune arthritis in vivo. Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice were intraperitoneally injected with W83 and 2561 strains of P.gingivalis. Infection with P.gingivalis exacerbated arthritis score in CIA mice. Synovial inflammation and bone destruction in CIA mice infected with P.gingivalis were more severe than in uninfected CIA mice. Both W83 and 2561 strains were more pro-arthritic after arthritis symptom was fully activated. Interestingly, only W83 strain was arthritogenic before autoimmune reaction initiated. Citrullination was detected in synovial tissue of CIA mice and CIA mice inoculated with P.gingivalis, but not in normal control mice. The citrullinated area was greater in P.gingivalis-infected CIA mice than in non-infected CIA mice. This study showed that P.gingivalis exacerbated disease in a mouse model of autoimmune arthritis and increased the expression of citrullinated antigens in the synovium. The arthritogenic effects of P.gingivalis were at least in part, dependent upon the bacterial strain with or without fimbriae expression, route and time of infection. P.gingivalis-mediated citrullination may explain the possible link between periodontal disease and RA. more...

Current problem that often take place in the public sector is on how to improve employee performance. Employee performance will not be far from the three variables that examined in this study such as job characteristics, motivation, and organizational commitment. Research conducted at the Research and Development Centers of Religion, On Religion Ministry in Indonesia. The purpose of this current research is to examine the effect of job characteristics and motivation on organizational commitment and employee performance. In addition, the research aims to know the role of organizational commitment in mediating the relationship between job characteristics and motivation on employee performance. Data analysis using regression analysis and mediated regression analysis. In the first step data will be describe by using the qualification by the rating score and then will be continued with finding the significantly between the variable. Result concluded that only job characteristics that has not significant effect on employee performance. Furthermore, result also proved that organizational commitment has a mediating role in influencing the relationship between job characteristics and employee performance, but not for the relationship between motivation and employee performance. Based on research results, efforts to increase employee performance through job characteristics cannot ignore the organizational commitment aspect. The results implied that motivation of work was faster to improve the employee perfomance than job characteristics more...

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have demonstrated great potential for differentiation into diverse tissues. We report a straightforward and highly efficient method for the generation of iPSCs from PBMCs. By plating the cells serially to a newly coated plate by centrifugation, this protocol provides multiple healthy iPSC colonies even from a small number of PBMCs. The generated iPSCs expressed pluripotent markers and differentiated into all three germ layer lineages. The protocol can also be used with umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs). In this study, we present a simple and efficient protocol that improved the yield of iPSCs from floating cells such as PBMCs and CBMCs by serial plating and centrifugation. more...