Immunomodulatory effects of canine mesenchymal stem cells in an experimental atopic dermatitis model

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to differentiate into multi-lineage cells, suggesting their future applicability in regenerative medicine and biotechnology. The immunomodulatory properties of MSCs make them a promising replacement therapy in various fields of animal research including in canine atopic dermatitis (AD), a skin disease with 10–15% prevalence. We investigated the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs in an experimental canine AD model induced by Dermatophagoides farinae extract ointment. Canine adipose tissue-derived MSCs (cAT-MSCs) were differentiated into mesodermal cell lineages at the third passage. Alterations in immunomodulatory factors in control, AD, and MSC-treated AD groups were evaluated using flow cytometric analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative reverse transcription PCR. In the MSC-treated AD group, the number of eosinophils decreased, and the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) increased compared to those in the AD group. In addition, the immunoglobulin E (IgE) and prostaglandin E2 levels were reduced in the MSC-treated AD group compared to those in the AD group. Furthermore, the filaggrin, vascular endothelial growth factor, and interleukin-5 gene expression levels were relatively higher in the MSC-treated AD group than in the AD group, however, not significantly. cAT-MSCs exerted immunomodulatory effects in an AD canine model via a rebalancing of type-1 and -2 T helper cells that correlated with increased levels of Tregs, IgE, and various cytokines.

Efficacy of Allogeneic and Xenogeneic Exosomes for the Treatment of Canine Atopic Dermatitis: A Pilot Study

“…Canine MSC-derived microvesicles or exosomes significantly promote the healing of cutaneous wounds, collagen synthesis, and vascularization at wound sites in dogs [54]. Although the therapeutic effects of autogenous or allogeneic adipose-derived MSCs on CAD [55,56] or experimental CAD models [57] have been examined, studies have yet to examine the effects of exosome therapy on CAD. Additionally, the therapeutic effect of xenogeneic exosomes in dogs with CAD is yet to be reported.…”