Amniotic mesenchymal stem cells with robust chemotactic properties are effective in the treatment of a myocardial infarction model

Background: We previously reported that amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (AMMs) possess high angio-vasulogenic properties. In this study, we investigated the chemotactic abilities of AMMs for improved cardiac function and regenerative angiogenesis. Methods: The expressions of chemotactic and angiogenic genes were determined by qRT-PCR. Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in NOD/SCID mice and cells were directly transplanted into the border regions of ischemic heart tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis was also conducted. Results: AMMs significantly expressed the representative chemotactic factor GCP-2, NAP-2 as well as angiogenic factor Hif-1a. AMMs also highly expressed the chemokine receptors CCR2, CCR3 and CCR5. AMM transplantation improved left ventricular function, capillary density, angiogenic cytokine levels, angiopoetin (Ang)-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) levels in affected tissue. Immunohistochemical assaying also revealed increased engraftment and endothelial phenotypes. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that due to elevated survival and related chemotactic potential, AMMs are a promising stem cell source for the treatment of ischemic cardiovascular disease. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.