INVESTIGADORES
PODHAJCER Osvaldo Luis
artículos
Título:
Mesenchymal stem cells as therapeutic tools and gene carriers in liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Autor/es:
AQUINO JB; BOLONTRADE MF; GARCÍA MG; PODHAJCER OL; MAZZOLINI GM
Revista:
GENE THERAPY
Editorial:
NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP
Referencias:
Lugar: Londres; Año: 2010 p. 692 - 708
ISSN:
0969-7128
Resumen:
Mesenchymal stem (stromal) cells (MSCs) are a source of circulating
progenitors that are able to generate cells of all mesenchymal lineages
and to cover cellular demands of injured tissues. The extent of their
transdifferentiation plasticity remains controversial. Cells with MSC
properties have been obtained from diverse tissues after purification
and expansion in vitro. These cellular populations are heterogeneous and
under certain conditions show pluripotent-like properties. MSCs present
immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory features and high migratory
capacity toward inflamed or remodeling tissues. In this study we review
available data regarding factors and signaling axes involved in the
chemoattraction and engraftment of MSCs to an injured tissue or to a
tissue undergoing active remodeling. Moreover, experimental evidence in
support of uses of MSCs as vehicles of therapeutic genes is discussed.
Because of its regenerative capacity and its particular immune
properties, the liver is a good model to analyze the potential of
MSC-based therapies. Finally, the potential application of MSCs and
genetically modified MSCs in liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC) is proposed in view of available evidence.