Therapeutic Efect of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and pericytes in a model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Grant number: 13/03166-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: May 01, 2013
• End date: July 31, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Human and Medical Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Mayana Zatz
• Grantee: Giuliana Castello Coatti
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease. Characteristically occurs depletion of the amount of motor neurons and inflammation in the central nervous system. ALS is a multifactorial disease and most cases are sporadic. Familial ALS comprises 5 to 10% of cases. Among the genes identified for this disease is the SOD1 gene that encodes an important antioxidant human enzyme named superoxide dismutase 1. Thus, the transgenic mice carrying the G93A SOD1 gene mutation is an important tool for studies involving ALS. One of the approaches to seek treatment for this disease is stem cell therapy. The mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), particularly those derived from the umbilical cord tissue and adipose tissue, are cells that are capable of differentiating into osteocytes, adipocytes and chondrocytes in vitro. Although their potential for differentiation into neuronal cells has not yet been proven, the role of these cells in the treatment of various diseases would be by modulating the inflammatory response and oxidative stress. The evaluation of the anti-inflammatory and regenerative potential of different sources of MSC and their soluble factors in an animal model for ALS, the SOD1 mouse, is essential in the search for an effective treatment for this disease.

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

COATTI, Giuliana Castello. Evaluation of the therapeutic potential of pericytes and mesenchymal stromal cells in SOD1 mice, animal model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. 2015. Doctoral Thesis - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Biociências (IBIOC/SB) São Paulo.