Systemic transplantation of valproic acid primed human adipose stem cells on amelioration of motor deficits in animal model of cerebellar degeneration

Abstract

Background and Aim: Cerebellar degeneration is characterized by disturbance in complex motor functions, balance, muscular strength and motor learning. This study investigated the effect of systemic transplantation of human adipose stem cells (hMSCs) primed with valproic acid (VPA) on amelioration of motor disorders in animal model of cerebellar degeneration. Material and Methods: After inducing unilateral lesion in rat cerebellum (Folia VI) by quinolinic acid, CM-DiI labeled hMSCs isolated from adipose tissue by liposuction, were primed with VPA for 48h and transplanted by way of the jugular vein, systemically. Then, we used cylinder, rotarod, hanging wire and beam balance test to assess motor functions in a period of 6 weeks after transplantation. Results: Six weeks after transplantation surviving hMSCs were detectable in the lesion site. The hMSC transplanted group showed markedly improved functional performance in motor learning, locomotor asymmetry, dysmetria, and neuromuscular strength and balance, in the first 6 weeks after transplantation compared to the control group. On the other hand, transplantation of VPA primed hMSCs led to a better amelioration in motor functions compared to non-primed hMSCs transplantation in the rats. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, cell therapy by means of VPA primed hMSCs can result in improved migration and homing capacity which can be regarded as a promising treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as cerebellar diseases.

Keywords

• mesenchymal stem cell
• adipose tissue
• valproic acid
• cerebellum
• motor function