Open AccessBrief Report—Human Embryonic Stem Cell‐Derived Mesenchymal Progenitors Possess Strong Immunosuppressive Effects Toward Natural Killer Cells as Well as T Lymphocytes
Author(s) -
Yen B. Linju,
Chang Chan Jung,
Liu KoJiunn,
Chen Yao Chang,
Hu HsinI,
Bai ChiHuey,
Yen MenLuh
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
stem cells
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.159
H-Index - 229
eISSN - 1549-4918
pISSN - 1066-5099
DOI - 10.1634/stemcells.2008-0390
Subject(s) - biology , mesenchymal stem cell , immunology , progenitor cell , cytotoxic t cell , embryonic stem cell , cd8 , microbiology and biotechnology , stem cell , immune system , cancer research , in vitro , genetics , gene
The derivation of mesenchymal progenitors from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) has recently been reported. We studied the immune characteristics of these hESC‐derived mesenchymal progenitors (EMPs) and their interactions with T lymphocytes and natural killer cells (NKs), two populations of lymphocytes with important roles in transplantation immunology. EMPs express a number of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell (BMMSC) markers, as well as the hESC marker SSEA‐4. Immunologically, EMPs do not express HLA‐DR or costimulatory molecules. On the other hand, HLA‐G, a nonclassic MHC I protein involved in mediating maternal‐fetal tolerance, can be found on the surface of EMPs, and its expression is increased after interferon‐γ stimulation. EMPs can suppress CD4 + or CD8 + lymphocyte proliferation, similar to BMMSCs. However, EMPs are more resistant to NK‐mediated lysis than BMMSCs and can suppress the cytotoxic effects of activated NKs, as well as downregulating the NK‐activating receptors NKp30 and NKp46. With their broad immunosuppressive properties, EMPs may represent a new potential cell source for therapeutic use. S TEM C ELLS 2009;27:451–456