Cell therapy with adipose tissue-derived stem/stromal cells for elastase-induced pulmonary emphysema in rats

Aims: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the mechanism underlying the effects of adipose tissue-derived stem/stromal cell (ASC) transplantation on porcine pancreatic elastase-induced emphysema. Materials & methods: ASCs (2.5 × 106) were transplanted into pancreatic elastase (250 U/kg)-treated rats, after which gas exchange and growth factor/cytokine levels in lung tissue were determined. Results: ASC transplantation restored pulmonary function (arterial oxygen tension and alveolar–arterial oxygen tension difference) almost to that of normal animals. Enlargement of the alveolar airspaces was inhibited. HGF and CINC-1 levels were significantly higher in the ASC group even at 2 weeks after transplantation. Sponge implantation with CINC-1 induced neovascular formation with increased HGF. In vitro secretion of HGF and CINC-1 from ASCs was promoted in the presence of IL-1β. Conclusion: Not only HGF, but also CINC-1, secreted from transplanted and viable ASCs presumably contributed to lung repair through...