Systemic transplantation of adult multipotent stem cells prevents articular cartilage degeneration in a mouse model of accelerated ageing

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent joint diseases advanced age and a leading cause disability worldwide. Ageing major risk factor for articular cartilage (AC) degeneration that leads to OA, age-related decline in regenerative capacity accelerates OA progression. Here we demonstrate systemic transplantation unique population adult multipotent muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells (MDSPCs), isolated from young wild-type mice, into Zmpste24 −/− mice (a model Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, condition marked by accelerated ageing), prevents ageing-related homeostatic AC. Results MDSPC treatment inhibited expression cartilage-degrading factors such as pro-inflammatory cytokines extracellular matrix-proteinases, whereas pro-regenerative markers associated with mechanical support tensile strength, resilience, chondrocyte proliferation differentiation, growth, were increased. Notably, also increased level genes known their key roles immunomodulation, autophagy, stress resistance, pro-longevity, telomere protection. Our findings indicate proteoglycan content regulating proliferation. Conclusions Together, these ability systemically transplanted MDSPCs preserve healthy homeostasis promote tissue regeneration at molecular progeroid These results highlight therapeutic potential delivered stem prevent age-associated AC degeneration.