The efficacy of MSC-HGF in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and connexin remodelling

Background

This study investigated whether the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) genetically modified marrow-mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation could offer a therapeutic benefit for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Methodology

Three weeks after monocrotaline administration, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following groups: PAH (n=10), MSCs (5×10⁶ MSCs injected into the jugular veins, n=10), HGF (5×10⁶ MSCs transfected with Ad-HGF into the jugular veins, n=10). Another three weeks later, hemodynamic changes and histomorphology were observed. Electron microscopy and immunofluorescence were also used to observe changes in the gap junctions of the heart.

Results

Compared with the PAH and MSC groups, hemodynamic parameters improved significantly in the MSC-HGF group. Right ventricular hypertrophy was improved as measured by the RV/LV weight and thickness ratios. Histologically, cardiac myocytes and cell nuclei recovered and interstitial fibrosis decreased in the MSC and MSC-HGF groups. Under electron microscopy, the gap junctions exhibited a disorganised morphology in the PAH group and the number of gap junctions was lower in this group than in the other groups. The distribution of connexins 43 and 40 were improved in the MSC-HGF group.

Conclusions

MCT-induced PAH can be treated and improved by HGF genetically modified MSCs, which may occur via connexin remodeling.