Morphology and Molecular Studies and Differentiation Ability of Ovarian Stem Cells in Newborn Syrian Rats

Background and Objectives: The ability of ovarian stem cells (OSCs) to differentiate into oocyte-like and theca cells may lead to major advances in infertility treatment. However, little is known about the function, growth and differentiation potentials of these cells. In this study, we aim to examine the characteristics of OSCs obtained from newborn rats and assess their ability to differentiate into osteocyte-like and adipocyte-like cells. Methods: In this study, OSCs were isolated from newborn Syrian rats and were then cultured. After the third passage, using the PCR method, the expression of stem cell markers (Sox2, Pou5f, and Nanog) was examined. Their potential to differentiate into osteocyte-like and adipocyte-like cells was examined by Alizarin red and Oil red staining, respectively. Results: The isolated OSCs were adherent and morphologically similar to fibroblast cells, and had the power to multiply. They expressed stem cells markers. In addition, they were able to differentiate into adipocyte-like and osteocyte-like cells 21 days after being placed in the differentiation medium. In the osteocyte-like cells, fat droplets were observed after oil red staining. Conclusion: The OSCs include multipotent stem cells that are able to express markers related to stem cells and can differentiate into osteocyte-like and adipocyte-like cells.