Proteomics Approaches in the Identification of Molecular Signatures of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are undifferentiated, multi-potent stem cells with the ability to renew. They can differentiate into many types of terminal cells, such as osteoblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes, myocytes, and neurons. These cells have been applied in tissue engineering as the main cell type to regenerate new tissues. However, a number of issues remain concerning the use of MSCs, such as cell surface markers, the determining factors responsible for their differentiation to terminal cells, and the mechanisms whereby growth factors stimulate MSCs. In this chapter, we will discuss how proteomic techniques have contributed to our current knowledge and how they can be used to address issues currently facing MSC research. The application of proteomics has led to the identification of a special pattern of cell surface protein expression of MSCs. The technique has also contributed to the study of a regulatory network of MSC differentiation to terminal differentiated cells, including osteocytes, chondrocytes, adipocytes, neurons, cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes, and pancreatic islet cells. It has also helped elucidate mechanisms for growth factor-stimulated differentiation of MSCs. Proteomics can, however, not reveal the accurate role of a special pathway and must therefore be combined with other approaches for this purpose. A new generation of proteomic techniques have recently been developed, which will enable a more comprehensive study of MSCs.

The Key Regulatory Roles of the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway in the Functionalities of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Applications in Tissue Regeneration

“…[32][33][34][35][36] All these MSCs have similar molecular markers with positive expression of mesenchymal markers (CD90, CD29, CD44, and CD105) and lack of CD34, CD45, CD11b, and HLA-DR. 36,37 MSCs from adipose tissue (ASCs) are extensively studied to substitute BMSCs with several obvious advantages. First, the adipose tissues are easier to obtain than bone marrow.…”

“…139 MSCs may also differentiate into other cells types such as neurons, cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes, and pancreatic betacells. 35 However, the role of PI3K/Akt pathway in the differentiation of these cells has not been studied well. Further exploration of the pathway may help to promote the potential use of MSCs in the regeneration of these cells.…”

Mitochondrial Transfer and Regulators of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Function and Therapeutic Efficacy

“…Metabolic reprogramming of differentiating MSCs is accomplished in part by post-translational modification of proteins required for MSC maintenance and differentiation (Li et al, 2011;Xiao and Chen, 2012;Jeon et al, 2016). Post-translational modification in the mitochondria and proteinprotein interactions that modify diverse mitochondrial functions are impacted by cellular demand, nutrient availability, and redox conditions.…”

Investigating the role of Sirtuins in cell reprogramming

“…Sirtuins known as histone deacetylases are relevant to the control of longevity, energy metabolism, and cell development in mammals ( 12 ). It was reported that sirtuins can affect the fate of stem cells through deacetylation of histone and non-histone proteins involved in gene expression ( 13 ). Recent studies demonstrated that the deficiency of Sirtuins influences reprogramming efficiency ( 14 ) and contributes to genomic instability, which as we noted, is an important issue in the cell reprogramming process ( 15 ).…”