Evaluation of the Role of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in the Healing ofIndomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulceration in Rats

Abstract

Purpose: To study the effect adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) in a rat model of gastric ulceration. Methods: 72 albino rats divided into 3 groups: Group N (Negative control), Group D (positive control); and Group T (ADSCs treated group). Six animals of each group were sacrificed 1, 3, 4 and 5 days after ulcer induction. Each stomach was extracted for macroscopical and histopathological assessment. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for human alu sequences in gastric tissue homogenate were done. Results: ADSCs transplantation improved the histopathology of the gastric tissue in stem cell treated group. Also the result of ulcer index was significantly decreased in stem cell treated group at day 3, 4 and 5 of the study comparing with the indomethacin challenged group. Regarding ELISA results, ADSCs restored the levels of PGE2 to the normal levels and increased the VEGF levels significantly to above normal levels. PCR revealed that stem cells successfully engulfed into the gastric wall by the third day and continued to persist until the 5th day. Conclusion: Homing of stem cells, release of growth factors that induce angiogenesis like VEGF and other substances as PGE2 may be the underlying mechanisms of the improved gastric ulceration healing.