Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSCs) are multipotent cells derived from the umbilical cord with immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for cell-based therapies targeting immune-related diseases. Herein, we aim to optimize the conditions of use of clinical-grade WJ-MSCs manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for the prevention of graft versus host disease (GVHD) in a preclinical xenogeneic GVHD mouse model.
Methods
GMP-compliant WJ-MSCs were primed with IFN-γ and assessed in vitro for their immunosuppressive capacity using coculture assays with activated human T cells. To evaluate in vivo efficacy, NSG mice were sub-lethally irradiated (2 Gy) and transplanted with human peripheral mononuclear cells, then treated with one or more injections of IFN-γ-primed or unprimed WJ-MSCs, to assess xeno- GVHD and its severity.
Results
GMP-produced WJ-MSCs suppressed T-cell proliferation in vitro and IFN-γ priming enhanced this effect, largely through Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity. In vivo, three weekly injections of IFN-γ-primed WJ-MSCs significantly improved survival and reduced histological GVHD scores in the liver and skin of recipient mice.
Conclusion
These findings demonstrate that IFN-γ-primed GMP-grade WJ-MSCs effectively prevent GVHD in preclinical models, and support their use in optimized dosing regimens for future clinical testing. Given their enhanced immunosuppressive efficacy, they also hold promise as a therapeutic option for established and treatment-refractory forms of GVHD.
{"title":"Optimized GMP-grade Wharton’s jelly’s mesenchymal stromal cells manufacturing and administration protocol for Graft versus Host disease prevention","authors":"Cécile Pochon , Romain Perouf , Anne-Béatrice Notarantonio , Allan Bertrand , Naceur Charif , De Carvalho Bittencourt Marcelo , Guillemette Fouquet , Ghislaine Cauchois , Danièle Bensoussan , David Moulin , Simona Pagliuca , Natalia de Isla , Hervé Sartelet , Maud D’Aveni , Marie-Thérèse Rubio","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103543","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103543","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSCs) are multipotent cells derived from the umbilical cord with immunomodulatory properties, making them a promising candidate for cell-based therapies targeting immune-related diseases. Herein, we aim to optimize the conditions of use of clinical-grade WJ-MSCs manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for the prevention of graft versus host disease (GVHD) in a preclinical xenogeneic GVHD mouse model.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>GMP-compliant WJ-MSCs were primed with IFN-γ and assessed <em>in vitro</em> for their immunosuppressive capacity using coculture assays with activated human T cells. To evaluate <em>in vivo</em> efficacy, NSG mice were sub-lethally irradiated (2 Gy) and transplanted with human peripheral mononuclear cells, then treated with one or more injections of IFN-γ-primed or unprimed WJ-MSCs, to assess xeno- GVHD and its severity.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>GMP-produced WJ-MSCs suppressed T-cell proliferation <em>in vitro</em> and IFN-γ priming enhanced this effect, largely through Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity<em>. In vivo</em>, three weekly injections of IFN-γ-primed WJ-MSCs significantly improved survival and reduced histological GVHD scores in the liver and skin of recipient mice.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These findings demonstrate that IFN-γ-primed GMP-grade WJ-MSCs effectively prevent GVHD in preclinical models, and support their use in optimized dosing regimens for future clinical testing. Given their enhanced immunosuppressive efficacy, they also hold promise as a therapeutic option for established and treatment-refractory forms of GVHD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103543"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145060642","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-09DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103542
Juan Wang , Heng Li , Nan Lv , Min Wang , Hongyu Zhao
Background
Congenital sideroblastic anemias (CSAs) are an inherited group of blood disorders due to defects of mitochondrial proteins. The NDUFB11 gene is essential for the assembly of mitochondrial complex Ⅰ protein. Mutations in the NDUFB11 gene can cause sideroblastic anemia with hyperlacticemia, microphthalmia, cardiomyopathy and encephalomyopathy with limited therapeutic options.
Case presentation
We reported a 35-year-old man with congenital sideroblastic anemia, skeletal dysplasias and hyperlacticemia. The skeletal muscle stains indicated probability of mitochondrial disorders. By whole-exome sequencing, we identified a mutation (c.276_278delCTT) in NDUFB11 gene in this patient which was inherited from his mother. He was unresponsive to the treatment of vitamin B2, vitamin B6, Coenzyme Q10, idebenone, or EPO but achieved hemoglobin concentration rise, transfusion independence and improvement of quality life after treated with low dose decitabine.
Conclusions
We proposed that epigenetic factors might play a role in pathogenesis in patients with c.276_278del (p.F93del) mutation in NDUFB11 gene and low dose decitabine may be a novel treatment in CSA patients with c.276_278del (p.F93del) mutation in NDUFB11 gene.
{"title":"Successful treatment of congenital sideroblastic anemia with low-dose decitabine in a patient with NDUFB11 gene mutation (c.276_278del): A case report","authors":"Juan Wang , Heng Li , Nan Lv , Min Wang , Hongyu Zhao","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103542","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103542","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Congenital sideroblastic anemias (CSAs) are an inherited group of blood disorders due to defects of mitochondrial proteins. The <em>NDUFB11</em> gene is essential for the assembly of mitochondrial complex Ⅰ protein. Mutations in the <em>NDUFB11</em> gene can cause sideroblastic anemia with hyperlacticemia, microphthalmia, cardiomyopathy and encephalomyopathy with limited therapeutic options.</div></div><div><h3>Case presentation</h3><div>We reported a 35-year-old man with congenital sideroblastic anemia, skeletal dysplasias and hyperlacticemia. The skeletal muscle stains indicated probability of mitochondrial disorders. By whole-exome sequencing, we identified a mutation (c.276_278delCTT) in <em>NDUFB11</em> gene in this patient which was inherited from his mother. He was unresponsive to the treatment of vitamin B2, vitamin B6, Coenzyme Q10, idebenone, or EPO but achieved hemoglobin concentration rise, transfusion independence and improvement of quality life after treated with low dose decitabine.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>We proposed that epigenetic factors might play a role in pathogenesis in patients with c.276_278del (p.F93del) mutation in <em>NDUFB11</em> gene and low dose decitabine may be a novel treatment in CSA patients with c.276_278del (p.F93del) mutation in <em>NDUFB11</em> gene.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103542"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145157109","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-05DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103541
Adebimpe O. Esan , David B. Olawade , Afeez A. Soladoye , Bolaji A. Omodunbi , Ibrahim A. Adeyanju , Nicholas Aderinto
Background
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder with significant clinical and economic impacts globally. Early and accurate prediction remains challenging with traditional diagnostic methods due to subjectivity, delayed diagnosis, and variability. Machine Learning (ML) approaches offer potential solutions, yet their clinical adoption is hindered by limited interpretability. This study aimed to develop an interpretable ML model for early and accurate PD prediction using comprehensive multimodal datasets and Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques.
Methods
The study applied five ML algorithms: Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), XGBoost, and a stacked ensemble method to a publicly available dataset (n = 2105) from Kaggle. Data encompassed demographic, medical history, lifestyle, clinical symptoms, cognitive, and functional assessments with specific inclusion/exclusion criteria applied. Preprocessing involved normalization, Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), and Sequential Backward Elimination (SBE) for feature selection. Model performance was evaluated via accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Area Under Curve (AUC). The best-performing model (RF with feature selection) was interpreted using SHAP and LIME methods.
Results
Random Forest combined with Backward Elimination Feature Selection achieved the highest predictive accuracy (93 %), precision (93 %), recall (93 %), F1-score (93 %), and AUC (0.97). SHAP and LIME analyses indicated UPDRS scores, cognitive impairment, functional assessment, and motor symptoms as primary predictors, enhancing clinical interpretability.
Conclusion
The study demonstrated the effectiveness of an interpretable RF model for accurate PD prediction. Integration of ML and XAI significantly improves clinical decision-making, diagnosis timing, and personalized patient care.
{"title":"Explainable AI for Parkinson’s disease prediction: A machine learning approach with interpretable models","authors":"Adebimpe O. Esan , David B. Olawade , Afeez A. Soladoye , Bolaji A. Omodunbi , Ibrahim A. Adeyanju , Nicholas Aderinto","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103541","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103541","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder with significant clinical and economic impacts globally. Early and accurate prediction remains challenging with traditional diagnostic methods due to subjectivity, delayed diagnosis, and variability. Machine Learning (ML) approaches offer potential solutions, yet their clinical adoption is hindered by limited interpretability. This study aimed to develop an interpretable ML model for early and accurate PD prediction using comprehensive multimodal datasets and Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The study applied five ML algorithms: Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), XGBoost, and a stacked ensemble method to a publicly available dataset (<em>n</em> = 2105) from Kaggle. Data encompassed demographic, medical history, lifestyle, clinical symptoms, cognitive, and functional assessments with specific inclusion/exclusion criteria applied. Preprocessing involved normalization, Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), and Sequential Backward Elimination (SBE) for feature selection. Model performance was evaluated via accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Area Under Curve (AUC). The best-performing model (RF with feature selection) was interpreted using SHAP and LIME methods.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Random Forest combined with Backward Elimination Feature Selection achieved the highest predictive accuracy (93 %), precision (93 %), recall (93 %), F1-score (93 %), and AUC (0.97). SHAP and LIME analyses indicated UPDRS scores, cognitive impairment, functional assessment, and motor symptoms as primary predictors, enhancing clinical interpretability.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study demonstrated the effectiveness of an interpretable RF model for accurate PD prediction. Integration of ML and XAI significantly improves clinical decision-making, diagnosis timing, and personalized patient care.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103541"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-09-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145048755","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-18DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103536
Michal Ordak
Background
Although statistical reporting guidelines such as SAMPL (Statistical Analyses and Methods in the Published Literature) exist, statistical errors remain common in biomedical manuscripts. This study investigates whether early author adherence to SAMPL can reduce the need for statistical revision and offers recommendations for broader editorial implementation.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 150 statistical reviews performed by the author between 2020 and 2025 for clinical medicine journals. Each manuscript was assessed for adherence to key SAMPL principles, including clarity of statistical methods, reporting of assumptions, and presentation of descriptive data. Outcomes were categorized as acceptance, revision (major/minor), or rejection.
Results
Of the 150 manuscripts, 99 (66 %) were accepted following SAMPL-based revisions: 87 after one round and 12 after two rounds (p < 0.001). The remaining 51 (34 %) were rejected, primarily due to issues such as inappropriate test use or lack of methodological justification. Among 39 manuscripts with conflicting reviewer opinions, SAMPL-based review helped resolve ambiguity, resulting in 25 rejections and 14 acceptances (p = 0.02). Of the accepted manuscripts, 65 % required major revisions and 35 % minor revisions (p = 0.004).
Conclusion
Proactive adherence to the SAMPL Guidelines may reduce editorial workload, improve clarity, and lower preventable rejections. Integrating structured reporting standards into submission processes could enhance transparency and consistency in statistical reporting. These findings support the use of SAMPL-based checklists to improve manuscript quality and streamline peer review.
{"title":"Could adherence to SAMPL Guidelines improve statistical reporting in clinical manuscripts? Insights from 150 editorial reviews for specialty journals","authors":"Michal Ordak","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103536","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103536","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Although statistical reporting guidelines such as SAMPL (Statistical Analyses and Methods in the Published Literature) exist, statistical errors remain common in biomedical manuscripts. This study investigates whether early author adherence to SAMPL can reduce the need for statistical revision and offers recommendations for broader editorial implementation.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A retrospective analysis was conducted on 150 statistical reviews performed by the author between 2020 and 2025 for clinical medicine journals. Each manuscript was assessed for adherence to key SAMPL principles, including clarity of statistical methods, reporting of assumptions, and presentation of descriptive data. Outcomes were categorized as acceptance, revision (major/minor), or rejection.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of the 150 manuscripts, 99 (66 %) were accepted following SAMPL-based revisions: 87 after one round and 12 after two rounds (<em>p</em> < 0.001). The remaining 51 (34 %) were rejected, primarily due to issues such as inappropriate test use or lack of methodological justification. Among 39 manuscripts with conflicting reviewer opinions, SAMPL-based review helped resolve ambiguity, resulting in 25 rejections and 14 acceptances (<em>p</em> = 0.02). Of the accepted manuscripts, 65 % required major revisions and 35 % minor revisions (<em>p</em> = 0.004).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Proactive adherence to the SAMPL Guidelines may reduce editorial workload, improve clarity, and lower preventable rejections. Integrating structured reporting standards into submission processes could enhance transparency and consistency in statistical reporting. These findings support the use of SAMPL-based checklists to improve manuscript quality and streamline peer review.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103536"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144879311","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-15DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103535
Simone Cesaro , Manuela Spadea , Franca Fagioli , Fulvio Porta , Marco Rabusin , Giulia Ferrando , Adriana Balduzzi , Arcangelo Prete , Marco Zecca , Maura Faraci
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most frequent viral complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). In the pediatric setting, several issues on its management are still debated due to the limited evidence compared to adults. The aim of this consensus was to promote harmonization of practices to improve prevention, control and treatment of CMV infection in children and adolescents.
Consensus was generated through voting by a panel of experts from 8 Italian pediatric transplant units who selected 11 topics on prevention of CMV infection and disease, risk factors, diagnosis, prophylaxis, pre-emptive, and therapeutic approaches and formulated 11 statements.
Statements were generated on impact of CMV infection on allo-HSCT outcome; risk factors for infection; monitoring of patients at risk; duration of infection risk; CMV prophylaxis and CMV pre-emptive strategies; choice of the antiviral therapy; use of CMV-IgG; antiviral combination therapy; role of adoptive cell therapy; therapeutic drug monitoring. All statements reached a mean score of ≥7 (agreement) at the first voting round and reached an even higher level of consensus at the second voting round after discussion and possible modification of some statements.
In conclusion, CMV infection is a risk factor for lower survival and higher non-relapse mortality. We propose a set of expert consensus-generated recommendations aimed at harmonizing the management of CMV infection in pediatric allo-HSCT. We recognize that this field has several unmet needs and emphasize the need for further specific clinical investigations.
{"title":"Expert consensus on the management of cytomegalovirus infection in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation","authors":"Simone Cesaro , Manuela Spadea , Franca Fagioli , Fulvio Porta , Marco Rabusin , Giulia Ferrando , Adriana Balduzzi , Arcangelo Prete , Marco Zecca , Maura Faraci","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103535","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103535","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most frequent viral complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). In the pediatric setting, several issues on its management are still debated due to the limited evidence compared to adults. The aim of this consensus was to promote harmonization of practices to improve prevention, control and treatment of CMV infection in children and adolescents.</div><div>Consensus was generated through voting by a panel of experts from 8 Italian pediatric transplant units who selected 11 topics on prevention of CMV infection and disease, risk factors, diagnosis, prophylaxis, pre-emptive, and therapeutic approaches and formulated 11 statements.</div><div>Statements were generated on impact of CMV infection on allo-HSCT outcome; risk factors for infection; monitoring of patients at risk; duration of infection risk; CMV prophylaxis and CMV pre-emptive strategies; choice of the antiviral therapy; use of CMV-IgG; antiviral combination therapy; role of adoptive cell therapy; therapeutic drug monitoring. All statements reached a mean score of ≥7 (agreement) at the first voting round and reached an even higher level of consensus at the second voting round after discussion and possible modification of some statements.</div><div>In conclusion, CMV infection is a risk factor for lower survival and higher non-relapse mortality. We propose a set of expert consensus-generated recommendations aimed at harmonizing the management of CMV infection in pediatric allo-HSCT. We recognize that this field has several unmet needs and emphasize the need for further specific clinical investigations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103535"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144887590","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Post-transplant relapse remains a considerable challenge for achieving successful outcomes in pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Adoptive immune cell therapy strategies utilizing highly purified donor-derived natural killer (NK) cells have been extensively explored in various transplantation settings, demonstrating promise in preventing disease recurrence, especially in pediatric AML patients.
Methods
Five pediatric and adolescent patients with high-risk AML were included in this pilot study and received haploidentical HSCT. On day 7 post-HSCT, all the patients received a single infusion of interleukin (IL)-2 stimulated ex vivo-expanded haploidentical NK cells (1 × 106/kg CD56+ cells of patient body weight).
Results
All the patients tolerated the administration of NK cells without any adverse events during or after the infusion. Relapse occurred in two patients, both within the first 100 days post-transplantation, while three patients remained alive and disease-free one year post-transplantation.
Conclusion
This pilot study demonstrated that the activation, expansion, and infusion of NK cells from readily available haploidentical donors in pediatric and adolescent patients with high-risk AML after HSCT is safe and feasible.
{"title":"Immunotherapy with ex vivo–expanded donor-derived NK cells after haploidentical HSCT in pediatric patients with AML: a phase I pilot study","authors":"Tahereh Rostami , Mohammad Ahmadvand , Bahram Chahardoli , Mohammad Reza Rostami , Mojtaba Azari , Morteza Azari , Azadeh Kiumarsi , Ghasem Janbabaei","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103534","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103534","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Post-transplant relapse remains a considerable challenge for achieving successful outcomes in pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Adoptive immune cell therapy strategies utilizing highly purified donor-derived natural killer (NK) cells have been extensively explored in various transplantation settings, demonstrating promise in preventing disease recurrence, especially in pediatric AML patients.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Five pediatric and adolescent patients with high-risk AML were included in this pilot study and received haploidentical HSCT. On day 7 post-HSCT, all the patients received a single infusion of interleukin (IL)-2 stimulated ex vivo-expanded haploidentical NK cells (1 × 10<sup>6</sup>/kg CD56+ cells of patient body weight).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>All the patients tolerated the administration of NK cells without any adverse events during or after the infusion. Relapse occurred in two patients, both within the first 100 days post-transplantation, while three patients remained alive and disease-free one year post-transplantation.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This pilot study demonstrated that the activation, expansion, and infusion of NK cells from readily available haploidentical donors in pediatric and adolescent patients with high-risk AML after HSCT is safe and feasible.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103534"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-08-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144904040","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-28DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103532
Kimberly T. Peta , Chrisna Durandt , Marlene B. van Heerden , Michael S. Pepper , Melvin A. Ambele
Background
The role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) in tumour development and progression remains a subject of debate. Previous studies have reported contradictory outcomes, possibly due to variations in experimental design and the use of xenograft models. Xenograft models limit interpretation and translation due to cross-species variability. To address these limitations, we employed an isogenic mouse model of spontaneous breast cancer (BC) to investigate the impact of murine MSCs on BC development and progression. Methods: MSCs isolated from FVB/N mouse adipose tissue (mASCs) were administered to female mice with palpable mammary tumours. Tumour volume and mass were assessed, and analysis of histopathological necrosis and gene expression was conducted on mammary (MT) and lung metastatic tumours (LT). Results: No change in MT mass and volume was observed between mASC-treated and control mice. However, mASC treatment led to increased necrosis in LT but not in MT. Immunohistochemistry revealed that mASC-treated mice had fewer CD163+ anti-inflammatory macrophages in the LT but not in the MT. Tgf-β3, vegfr1, and cd105 were observed and downregulated in both MT and LT in mASC-treated mice. The downregulation of cd36 and tgf-β3 contributes to pro-tumourigenic activities, whereas the downregulation of vegfr1 and cd105 is associated with an anti-tumour effect. In the mASC treatment group, all cytokines tested for, except IL-27, were elevated. Conclusion: This study suggests that mASCs are anti-tumourigenic in pulmonary metastatic BC. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering the tumour microenvironment and employing relevant animal models when investigating the impact of MSCs on tumour progression.
{"title":"Effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells on mouse mammary tumour growth and formation of lung metastases","authors":"Kimberly T. Peta , Chrisna Durandt , Marlene B. van Heerden , Michael S. Pepper , Melvin A. Ambele","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103532","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103532","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) in tumour development and progression remains a subject of debate. Previous studies have reported contradictory outcomes, possibly due to variations in experimental design and the use of xenograft models. Xenograft models limit interpretation and translation due to cross-species variability. To address these limitations, we employed an isogenic mouse model of spontaneous breast cancer (BC) to investigate the impact of murine MSCs on BC development and progression. Methods: MSCs isolated from FVB/N mouse adipose tissue (mASCs) were administered to female mice with palpable mammary tumours. Tumour volume and mass were assessed, and analysis of histopathological necrosis and gene expression was conducted on mammary (MT) and lung metastatic tumours (LT). Results: No change in MT mass and volume was observed between mASC-treated and control mice. However, mASC treatment led to increased necrosis in LT but not in MT. Immunohistochemistry revealed that mASC-treated mice had fewer CD163+ anti-inflammatory macrophages in the LT but not in the MT. Tgf-β3, vegfr1, and cd105 were observed and downregulated in both MT and LT in mASC-treated mice. The downregulation of cd36 and tgf-β3 contributes to pro-tumourigenic activities, whereas the downregulation of vegfr1 and cd105 is associated with an anti-tumour effect. In the mASC treatment group, all cytokines tested for, except IL-27, were elevated. Conclusion: This study suggests that mASCs are anti-tumourigenic in pulmonary metastatic BC. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering the tumour microenvironment and employing relevant animal models when investigating the impact of MSCs on tumour progression.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103532"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144738510","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Several hematologic diseases with genetic defects, like sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia can be treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from healthy donors. However, suitable tissue-matched donors are often unavailable, and HSCT involves risks such as graft-versus-host disease and potential disease relapse. Due to the genetic heterogeneity of blood disorders and the complexity of the hematopoietic system, identifying effective genes for managing and treating both benign and malignant conditions remains a significant challenge. The genome editing field is rapidly expanding and is essential for identifying genetic factors in pathological processes. These developments highlight the importance of using ex vivo gene therapy approaches for autologous hematopoietic stem cells. Also, gene editing technologies are gaining significant interest in engineered cell therapies for hematological malignancies . Today, various programmable nucleases are available for genome editing, with the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system standing out due to its high efficiency, low cytotoxicity, cost-effectiveness, and precision. This system can serve as a genomic modification tool for treating blood disorders, including hereditary diseases and immunotherapy for cancer using chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells). Advancements in CRISPR-Cas9 are expected to significantly impact medical research and clinical applications. However, challenges such as off-target effects and immunogenicity must be addressed. This review summarizes the mechanism and delivery strategies of CRISPR-Cas9, discusses its applications in treating inherited blood disorders such as sickle cell disease, β-thalassemia, and fanconi anemia, as well as hematological malignancies, and highlights the associated challenges.
{"title":"CRISPR-Cas9: a prominent genome editing tool in the management of inherited blood disorders and hematological malignancies","authors":"Ghazaleh Behrouzian Fard, Mohammad Hossein Ahmadi, Mehran Gholamin, Mahdi Hosseini Bafghi","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103531","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103531","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Several hematologic diseases with genetic defects, like sickle cell disease and β-thalassemia can be treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from healthy donors. However, suitable tissue-matched donors are often unavailable, and HSCT involves risks such as graft-versus-host disease and potential disease relapse. Due to the genetic heterogeneity of blood disorders and the complexity of the hematopoietic system, identifying effective genes for managing and treating both benign and malignant conditions remains a significant challenge. The genome editing field is rapidly expanding and is essential for identifying genetic factors in pathological processes. These developments highlight the importance of using <em>ex vivo</em> gene therapy approaches for autologous hematopoietic stem cells. Also, gene editing technologies are gaining significant interest in engineered cell therapies for hematological malignancies . Today, various programmable nucleases are available for genome editing, with the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system standing out due to its high efficiency, low cytotoxicity, cost-effectiveness, and precision. This system can serve as a genomic modification tool for treating blood disorders, including hereditary diseases and immunotherapy for cancer using chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells). Advancements in CRISPR-Cas9 are expected to significantly impact medical research and clinical applications. However, challenges such as off-target effects and immunogenicity must be addressed. This review summarizes the mechanism and delivery strategies of CRISPR-Cas9, discusses its applications in treating inherited blood disorders such as sickle cell disease, β-thalassemia, and fanconi anemia, as well as hematological malignancies, and highlights the associated challenges.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103531"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144756846","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-22DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103530
Dipal Mehta, Holly Theaker, Hugo Ferreira, Syeda Ahmed, Aisha Roble, Emma Shambrook, Jonathan Lambert, Andrew Wilson, Donal P McLornan, Samah Alimam
Increasing numbers of adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients are diagnosed with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Management strategies are often extrapolated from older MPN cohorts and frequently fail to address specific needs. Through retrospective description of 107 AYA patients registered at a UK specialist centre, we identify unique clinicopathological features compared with older patients, including lower incidence of JAK2 V617F and additional non-driver mutations, and a reduced rate of transformation. Despite these favourable disease characteristics, we demonstrate significant rates of venous thrombosis (>14 %). This data highlights areas of unmet clinical need and calls for tailored management approaches for AYA MPN patients.
{"title":"Adolescent and young adult patients with ‘Philadelphia negative’ myeloproliferative neoplasms: a real world, UK tertiary-centre study","authors":"Dipal Mehta, Holly Theaker, Hugo Ferreira, Syeda Ahmed, Aisha Roble, Emma Shambrook, Jonathan Lambert, Andrew Wilson, Donal P McLornan, Samah Alimam","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103530","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103530","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Increasing numbers of adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients are diagnosed with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Management strategies are often extrapolated from older MPN cohorts and frequently fail to address specific needs. Through retrospective description of 107 AYA patients registered at a UK specialist centre, we identify unique clinicopathological features compared with older patients, including lower incidence of <em>JAK2</em> V617F and additional non-driver mutations, and a reduced rate of transformation. Despite these favourable disease characteristics, we demonstrate significant rates of venous thrombosis (>14 %). This data highlights areas of unmet clinical need and calls for tailored management approaches for AYA MPN patients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103530"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-07-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144696843","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-17DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2025.103529
Soolafa Al Soliman , Zaki Ali Ajji , Antoun Al-Laham
Background
Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has demonstrated promising antitumor properties; however, its clinical application is limited by systemic toxicity. Encapsulation in biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles offers a strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Nevertheless, the use of toxic organic solvents in nanoparticle fabrication remains a significant challenge.
Objective
This study aimed to develop and characterize diclofenac diethylamine-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles using green solvents and to compare two preparation methods-emulsification solvent evaporation/extraction and spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion-for producing diclofenac-loaded nanoparticles with potential applications in tumor therapy.
Methods
Diclofenac diethylamine-loaded PCL nanoparticles were prepared using both methods, employing a novel green solvent system. The nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. In vitro drug release profiles were evaluated and fitted to kinetic models.
Results
The developed diclofenac diethylamine-loaded PCL nanoparticles exhibited a mean diameter below 200 nm, a monodisperse population, and a negative surface charge. Both preparation methods achieved high encapsulation efficiency and prolonged, diffusion-controlled drug release. The spontaneous solvent diffusion method provided slightly better control over particle size.
Conclusion
These nanoparticles are well-suited for cancer therapy, offering sustained drug release, enhanced safety due to the use of green solvents, and robust physicochemical stability. The findings support their potential as an innovative, effective, and safe delivery system for antitumoral applications.
{"title":"Green solvent-based synthesis of diclofenac diethylamine-loaded PCL nanoparticles for sustained drug delivery","authors":"Soolafa Al Soliman , Zaki Ali Ajji , Antoun Al-Laham","doi":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103529","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.retram.2025.103529","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has demonstrated promising antitumor properties; however, its clinical application is limited by systemic toxicity. Encapsulation in biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles offers a strategy to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Nevertheless, the use of toxic organic solvents in nanoparticle fabrication remains a significant challenge.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aimed to develop and characterize diclofenac diethylamine-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles using green solvents and to compare two preparation methods-emulsification solvent evaporation/extraction and spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion-for producing diclofenac-loaded nanoparticles with potential applications in tumor therapy.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Diclofenac diethylamine-loaded PCL nanoparticles were prepared using both methods, employing a novel green solvent system. The nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. In vitro drug release profiles were evaluated and fitted to kinetic models.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The developed diclofenac diethylamine-loaded PCL nanoparticles exhibited a mean diameter below 200 nm, a monodisperse population, and a negative surface charge. Both preparation methods achieved high encapsulation efficiency and prolonged, diffusion-controlled drug release. The spontaneous solvent diffusion method provided slightly better control over particle size.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These nanoparticles are well-suited for cancer therapy, offering sustained drug release, enhanced safety due to the use of green solvents, and robust physicochemical stability. The findings support their potential as an innovative, effective, and safe delivery system for antitumoral applications.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54260,"journal":{"name":"Current Research in Translational Medicine","volume":"73 4","pages":"Article 103529"},"PeriodicalIF":3.2,"publicationDate":"2025-07-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144686575","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}