IFN-γ cocultured mesenchymal stem cells promote substantial immunomodulatory effects in mice models of allergic asthma.

Abstract

Asthma is a debilitating lung disease characterized by airway inflammation and airflow obstruction. Immune cells, particularly T helper 2 (Th2) lymphocytes, are central players in the pathogenesis of asthma and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown the capability of softening pathological inflammatory responses in asthma. Hence, we researched the immunopathologic effects MSCs cocultured with interferon (IFN)-γ, the main Th1 cytokine, in asthmatic mice. After isolation, MSCs were cocultured with IFN-γ and administered to asthmatic mice. Subsequent analyses included enumeration of broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) fluid's inflammatory cells, determination of the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), leukotrienes (LTs), cytokines, chemokines, and histopathology assessment. The administration of IFN-γ-cocultured MSCs reduced the percentage of eosinophils in the BAL fluid and levels of IgE, LTs, cytokines, and chemokines. Also, there was a decrease in the eosinophilic infiltration of perivascular areas and periairways. IFN-γ cocultured MSCs could modulate immune responses and harness pathological events in allergic asthma.