Evaluation of Human Skin-Derived Stem Cell Characteristics After Non-Invasive Quantum Dot Labeling

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The use of skin-derived stem cells and other origins in regenerative medicine requires knowledge cell fate after transplantation. In order to achieve non-invasive long-term imaging tracking transplanted preclinical studies, a non-toxic, efficient labeling technique that does not alter characteristics must be used. Our aim was investigate method for such cell-compatible tracer using nanoparticles. METHODS: Nanotechnology, particular the quantum dots (QDs), offers great advantages this crucial requirement. study, we used nanocrystals coated with specific target peptide enables delivery into cytoplasm cells, resulting an intense stable fluorescent labeling. We analyzed influence biocompatible CdSe/ZnS-QDs on epidermal (EpiSCs) isolated from adult human skin. Thereby QD loading, proliferation including transfer descendent daughter as well differentiation potential RESULTS: FACS analysis revealed dose-dependent incorporation cells. Thereby, high initial concentration resulted more labeled showed normal viability unchanged ability proliferate. spread QDs during division monitored by time lapse microscopy two modes distribution could observed. Daughter either received equal amount division, which led homogenously faded fluorescence signal, or there uneven transmission QDs, one complete loss signal cell. spontaneous remained unaffected exposure, since EpiSCs protein gene expression profile. CONCLUSION: summary, can conclude offer successful, EpiSCs, makes their vitro vivo skin regeneration wound healing models traceable. Nevertheless, should disregarded extent frequency investigated further studies.