Platelet-Derived Microparticles Increase Expression of hTERT in Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells

• Published in: Research in molecular medicine Vol. 5; no. 4; p. 31
• Main Authors: Pour, Maryam Samareh Salavati, Kasgari, Fatemeh Hoseinpour, Farsinejad, Alireza, Fatemi, Ahmad, Khalilabadi, Roohollah Mirzaee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 10.10.2018
• ISSN: 2322-1348; 2322-133X
• DOI: 10.18502/rmm.v5i4.3063

Introduction: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely studied due to their self- renewal potential and capacity to differentiate into multiple tissues. However, they have a limited life span of several divisions in vitro, which alters various cellular characteristics and reduces their application. Aim: We evaluated the effect of platelet-derived microparticles on gene expression of hTERT, one of the main factors involved in aging and cell longevity. Materials and methods: Umbilical cord MSCs were used for this study. Cells were characterized by evaluating morphology via inverted microscope and identifying associated surface markers using flow cytometry. Platelet-derived microparticles were prepared by centrifuging platelet bags at varying speeds, and their concen- trations were determined by Bradford assay. At 30% confluency, MSCs were treated with 50 μg/mL of microparticles for five days. Then, RNA was extracted and cDNA was synthesized. Quantitative expression of hTERT was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Fibroblast-like cells were isolated from umbilical cord tissue and MSCs were identified by the presence of mesenchymal surface markers via flow cytometry. Real- time PCR showed that gene expression of hTERT increased by more than three times when treated with platelet-derived microparticles, in comparison to expression of the control group. Conclusion: We concluded that platelet-derived microparticles may be a potentially safe and effective method to increase hTERT gene expression in MSCs, ultimately prolonging their life span in vitro.