Stem cells have unique capability to differentiate into many cell types that can
normally replace the loss in some cells of the body due to tissue injury. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) and
umbilical cord (UC) are the two main sources for hematopoietic
stem cells (HSCs) and mesenchymal stem
cells (MSCs), respectively, which constitutes the basis for stem cell banks that have been established
worldwide and very recently in Syria. Research in our region has mainly focused on cell storage and
freezing protocols, and only few studies were conducted to prove the ability of the stored cells to
differentiate into their destined lineages. This study aimed to test the potential of cryopreserved MSCs
isolated from an umbilical cord taken from new delivery at Maternity University Hospital in Damascus, to
differentiate into various types of cells in response to growth and induction factors specific to cell lineages.
This research aims at establishing
and testing protocols for isolation, in vitro proliferation, phenotyping, and
differentiation of MSCs embedded in umbilical cord tissues of Syrian
newborns.
MSCs were isolated from two caesarian births depending
on their
adherence characteristic on plastic surfaces, and cells were cultured in MSC
medium for their growth and proliferation. Cell phenotyping was performed by
flow cytometry using fluorescent monoclonal antibodies specific to MSCs’
surface markers. Cultured cells were passed several times and a portion of
these cells was cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen, and cell viability was assessed.
Differentiation of these MSCs into adipocytes was conducted using culture
medium Indomethacin and hydrocortisone.
Researchers and critics focus on the French comparative research, which is clear and
requires no proof. But perhaps we need to be steadfast by the Russian thinkers and critics.
The research attempts to complete the opening of some neglected windows
with the
intent or purpose of extrapolating and checking the situation that we are repressing through
the prelude to the confidence of the ideas and opinions that produced what is known as the
Russian comparative trend.
