Exploring the Potential Effects of Cryopreservation on the Biological Characteristics and Cardiomyogenic Differentiation of Rat Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Abstract

Cryopreservation is essential for the broad clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), yet its impact on their cellular characteristics and cardiomyogenic differentiation potential remains a critical concern in translational medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cryopreservation on the biological properties and cardiomyogenic capacity of rat adipose-derived MSCs (AD-MSCs). We examined their cellular morphology, surface marker expression (CD29, CD90, CD45), trilineage differentiation potential (adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic), and gene expression profiles for the pluripotency marker REX1 and immunomodulatory markers TGFβ1 and IL-6. After inducing cardiomyocyte differentiation, we assessed cardiac-specific gene expressions (Troponin I, MEF2c, GSK-3β) using quantitative RT-qPCR, along with live/dead cell staining and immunofluorescence for cardiac-specific proteins (Troponin T, α-actinin, Myosin Heavy Chain). Cryopreserved AD-MSCs preserved their morphology, surface markers, and differentiation potential, but exhibited a reduced expression of REX1, TGFβ1, and IL-6. Additionally, cryopreservation diminished cardiomyogenic differentiation, as indicated by the lower levels of Troponin I, MEF2c, and GSK-3β seen compared to non-cryopreserved cells. Despite this, high cell viability (>90%) and maintained cardiac protein expression were observed post-cryopreservation. These findings highlight the necessity of optimizing cryopreservation protocols to ensure the full therapeutic potential of AD-MSCs, particularly in applications related to cardiac regenerative medicine.