P75 and S100 gene expression induced by cell-imprinted substrate and beta-carotene to nerve tissue engineering

Here we aimed to differentiate adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) to Schwann cells (SCs), as one of the major and instrumental cell sources in nerve regeneration, by synergistic application of imprinting method and beta-carotene. Accordingly, the topography of Schwann cells was imprinted on poly dimethyl siloxane (PDMS) substrates via mold casting and human ADSCs seeded on substrates; moreover, beta-carotene was added to induce hADSCs differentiation. Physiochemical evaluations of PDMS by FTIR spectra presented its silicon-methyl bond (Si-CH3) at 1260 cm(-1). Morphology analysis by crystal violet, picrosirus red staining, and SEM images illustrated that MSCs seeded on imprinted substrates have formed SC-like morphology. Furthermore, according to q-PCR and ICC evaluations, SCs specific markers; S100 and P75 in addition of 5 mu l beta-carotene (BC) were upregulated (p-value<0.001). Also, the expression was detected on the imprinted surfaces without beta-carotene to a lesser degree. Our study revealed that Schwann cell imprinted substrates can mimic the morphology and topography of SCs and induce differentiation signals in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In addition, the potency of beta-carotene as an organic substance in boosting and stimulating the neural differentiation was demonstrated. Relevantly, the reports have confirmed the synergistic pivotal roles of beta-carotene and patterned surfaces in directing MSCs into SC-like cells differentiation without applying expensive and less safe chemical growth factors.

Automated summary

In this study, adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) were successfully differentiated into Schwann cells (SCs) using imprinting method and beta-carotene. The topography of SCs was imprinted on PDMS substrates, inducing differentiation signals in MSCs and upregulation of SC specific markers with the addition of beta-carotene. This study demonstrated the ability of Schwann cell imprinted substrates and beta-carotene to mimic SC morphology and induce neural differentiation in MSCs, without the need for expensive or unsafe chemical growth factors.