Regenerative Potential of Umbilical Cord Blood-derived Stromal Cells along with Phytosterol Campesterol in Wound Healing of a Rat Model

Mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB-MSCs) have a well-known role in fastening the wound healing process due to their less immune rejection, anti-inflammatory effects, and their role in cellular growth. Campesterol is a nutritional phytosterol with extensive health values and a competitor of cholesterol in the blood. Campesterol shares some anti-inflammatory effects via its regulation of inflammatory markers by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory cytokines (including TNF-α, TGF-β1, and IL-6) levels.

The purpose of this study was to assess the ameliorative role of combined therapy (campesterol and UCB-MSCs) in wound healing without immune rejection. The study comprised both in-vitro and in-vivo experiments. In-vitro analysis included assessments of the cell viability of campesterol on UCBMSCs using MTT, crystal blue, trypan blue, and cell scratch assays. For in-vivo trials, superficial burn wounds were created on Sprague Dawley rats to evaluate the effects of campesterol, UCB-MSCs, and their combination on healing outcomes. Tissue regeneration progress in the wound vicinity was assessed using H&E staining and ELISA (inflammatory and growth markers) analysis.

Results of in-vitro experiments indicated that campesterol at concentrations of 10µg, 20µg, and 30µg demonstrated the most efficient cell viability. Moreover, a 30ug dose of campesterol along with UCBMSCs was further applied, leading to smooth and uncomplicated healing in the animal models. H&E staining showed nearly normal skin tissue while hematological and biochemical markers were near to control. Serum levels of tissue growth promoter factors, including VEGF and collagen-3, were higher, and pro-inflammatory markers (such as TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-6) were lower at the same time.

The results of the combined (MSCs and campesterol) therapy showed enhanced wound healing abilities. However, further studies are recommended to explore new aspects of this promising therapeutic approach of UCB-MSCs along with steroid derivative campesterol.