BackgroundThe characteristics and therapeutic potential of subtypes of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are largely unknown. In this study, CD146+ and CD146– MSCs were separated from human umbilical cords, and their effects on regulatory T cells (Tregs), Th17 cells, chondrogenesis, and osteogenesis were investigated.MethodsFlow cytometry was used to quantify IL-6 and TGF-β1 expressed on CD146+ and CD146– MSCs. The therapeutic potential of both subpopulations was determined by measuring the clinical score and joint histology after intra-articular (IA) transfer of the cells into mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA).ResultsCompared with CD146– MSCs, CD146+ MSCs expressed less IL-6 and had a significantly greater effect on chondrogenesis. After T lymphocyte activation, Th17 cells were activated when exposed to CD146– cells but not when exposed to CD146+ cells both in vitro and in vivo. IA injection of CD146+ MSCs attenuated the progression of CIA. Immunohistochemistry showed that only HLA-A+ CD146+ cells were detected in the cartilage of CIA mice. These cells may help preserve proteoglycan expression.ConclusionsThis study suggests that CD146+ cells have greater potency than CD146– cells for cartilage protection and can suppress Th17 cell activation. These data suggest a potential therapeutic application for CD146+ cells in treating inflammatory arthritis.

No abstract

AREG and TACE expression were up-regulated by IL-1β and their activations on FLS-RA lead to the matrix degradation by inducing MMP-1 and cadherin-11 production. TACE activity is necessary for IL-1β-induced AREG release. Our results demonstrate that IL-1β-induced AREG release may be involved in the pathogenesis of RA.

No abstract