Mesenchymal stem cells are being explored for the targeted delivery of biomedical drugs, with potential applications in treating stroke, cancer, and inflammatory conditions. Researchers at the Baltic Federal University named after Immanuel Kant have reported progress in this area, according to the Ministry of Education and Science.
The research team implemented methods to isolate and cultivate human mesenchymal stem cells. They assessed how these cells behaved under loading conditions that involved microcapsules, evaluated cell viability and functional activity, and studied how the microcapsules influenced cell movement and migration potential. Colleagues at IKBFU’s Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology collaborated on synthesizing and characterizing the microcapsules used in the study, and they measured nitrite levels to gain additional insights into the inflammatory status of the cells. The statement was made by I. Kant Vladimir Malashchenko, an engineer and researcher involved in the project.
The scientists conducted in vitro experiments to examine how synthetic polymeric microcapsules, a drug delivery option, affected cell morphology, ultrastructure, biological activity, and viability of mesenchymal stem cells. The findings indicate that mesenchymal stem cells hold promise for regenerative medicine due to their capacity to differentiate, their anti-inflammatory properties, and their ability to regulate immune responses. Importantly, these cells could serve as effective carriers for encapsulated therapies to inflammatory sites such as target organs and tissues. This approach could allow lower drug doses and reduce adverse side effects in future treatments.
Results showed that human mesenchymal stem cells could be loaded with the synthesized microcapsules while preserving their motility and migratory ability, without compromising cell integrity. In this context, cytokine secretion, which plays a key role in controlling excessive inflammation, remained regulated.
Overall, within the experimental model, researchers validated the concept of using human mesenchymal stem cells as a vehicle for delivering microcapsules containing bioactive materials. This work contributes to the development of advanced, high-tech strategies for addressing a range of socially significant diseases. [Source: IKBFU Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology; Ministry of Education and Science]