Etude de la différenciation des cellules souches mésenchymateuses autologues d'origine musculaire en cellules endothéliales et en cardiomyocytes

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells have been isolated from skeletal muscle in horses. Aims:
To develop the culture of muscle-derived mesenchymal stem cells (mdMSC) in pigs as the ideal
model of the human cardiovascular system, and differentiate mdMSC into endothelial cells and
cardiomyocytes. Material and Methods: mdMSC have been grown by explant culture of muscular
micro-biopsy and isolated using a discontinuous Percoll density gradient. They have been
differentiated into endothelial cells using vascular endothelial growth factor, and into
cardiomyocytes using dimethyl sulfoxide. Differentiation has been assessed by
immunofluorescence. Results: The isolation protocol of equine mdMSC has been successfully
adjusted to the pig model. Cells cultured in differentiation medium have been efficiently
differentiated into endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes as it has been highlighted by a positive
staining for von Willebrand factor and cardiac troponin T respectively; mdMSC from the control
group were negative. No morphological modification has been observed. Conclusion: mdMSC
and cells obtained by differentiation are an easily reachable cell population that represents a
valuable research material and offers original and promising therapeutic prospects in
cardiovascular sciences.