Mesenchymal stem cells improve the healing of ischemic colonic anastomoses (experimental study)

Abstract

Objective: The goal of this study is to examine if allogenic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation is a useful therapy for left ischemic colon anastomosis in rats. Problems with anastomosis healing may lead to serious postoperative complications. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs), which are also referred to as stromal progenitor cells, are self-renewing and expandable stem cells. Recent studies have suggested that BM-MSCs play a crucial role in the processes of intestinal repair and accelerate angiogenesis.

Methods: MSCs were isolated from rats before analysis by light and scanning electron microscopy. Forty male Wistar albino rats weighing 250-280 g were divided into four equal groups (n = 10) as follows: group 1: control, ischemic left colonic anastomoses (fourth day); group 2: control, ischemic left colonic anastomoses (seventh day); group 3: ischemic left colonic anastomoses + locally transplanted BM-MSCs (fourth day); group 4: ischemic left colonic anastomoses + locally transplanted BM-MSCs (seventh day). Histopathological features and anastomotic strength were evaluated.

Results: BM-MSCs therapy significantly accelerated all of the healing parameters for ischemic colonic anastomosis except for inflammation on the fourth day. On the seventh day, BM-MSCs augmented the levels of the hydroxyproline and bursting pressure. Histological parameters, especially angiogenesis, were also found to be important for healing of ischemic colonic anastomoses.

Conclusions: This is the first study to use locally transplanted cell therapy for the healing of ischemic colonic anastomosis. BM-MSCs therapy significantly accelerated all of the healing parameters for ischemic colonic anastomosis.