The effect of quercetin on hepatic differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be stimulated to differentiate into hepatic cells. MSC differentiation was induced by fibroblast growth factor-4, hepatocyte growth factor, oncostatin M, and dexamethasone. The influence of quercetin on MSC hepatic differentiation in culture was assayed, and 1 or 10 μmole/L quercetin added into the induction medium enhanced the manifestation of MSC hepatic differentiation. Urea secretion, cytokeratin 19 expression, and α-fetoprotein synthesis were increased. Quercetin modulated CYP1A–cytochrome P450 activity in the differentiated cells. MSCs differentiated in the presence of quercetin exhibited higher viability and resistance to oxidative stress.