Regenerative Potential of Umbilical Cord Blood-derived Stromal Cells along with Phytosterol Campesterol in Wound Healing of a Rat Model.

Abstract

Introduction: Mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB-MSCs) have a well-known role in fastening the wound healing process due to their less immune rejection, anti-inflammatory effects, and their role in cellular growth. Campesterol is a nutritional phytosterol with extensive health values and a competitor of cholesterol in the blood. Campesterol shares some anti-inflammatory effects via its regulation of inflammatory markers by inhibiting the proinflammatory cytokines (including TNF-α, TGF-β1, and IL-6) levels.

Method: The purpose of this study was to assess the ameliorative role of combined therapy (campesterol and UCB-MSCs) in wound healing without immune rejection. The study comprised both invitro and in-vivo experiments. In-vitro analysis included assessments of the cell viability of campesterol on UCBMSCs using MTT, crystal blue, trypan blue, and cell scratch assays. For in-vivo trials, superficial burn wounds were created on Sprague Dawley rats to evaluate the effects of campesterol, UCB-MSCs, and their combination on healing outcomes. Tissue regeneration progress in the wound vicinity was assessed using H&E staining and ELISA (inflammatory and growth markers) analysis.

Result: Results of in-vitro experiments indicated that campesterol at concentrations of 10μg, 20μg, and 30μg demonstrated the most efficient cell viability. Moreover, a 30ug dose of campesterol along with UCBMSCs was further applied, leading to smooth and uncomplicated healing in the animal models. H&E staining showed nearly normal skin tissue while hematological and biochemical markers were near to control. Serum levels of tissue growth promoter factors, including VEGF and collagen- 3, were higher, and pro-inflammatory markers (such as TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-6) were lower at the same time.

Conclusion: The results of the combined (MSCs and campesterol) therapy showed enhanced wound healing abilities. However, further studies are recommended to explore new aspects of this promising therapeutic approach of UCB-MSCs along with steroid derivative campesterol.