Biological features and ultrastructure of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells / 中国医学科学院学报

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To isolate and culture human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and explore their biological features and ultrastructure.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>After isolating MSCs from the human umbilical cord, the proliferation, cycle, and apoptosis were observed. The cell ultrastructure was observed under transmission electron microscope. The cytokines including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Human umbilical cord MSCs had fibroblast-like morphology and increased proliferation capability. Ultrastructural analysis showed that the MSCs had active cellular metabolism and strong migration and differentiation capabilities. Meanwhile, they could secrete anti-apoptotic cytokines such as VEGF, IGF-1, and HGF.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Human umbilical cord MSCs can secrete many anti-apoptotic cytokine and have good biological features.</p>