Isolation and Characterization of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Canine Ovarian Surface Epithelium

Abstract

Background: Few studies have confirmed the presence of ovarian tissue stem cells indicating the capacity for differentiation. Based on this fact, it was hypothesized that mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were found in ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) of canines that could easily be isolated. Methods: Both left and right ovaries were minced and digested using collagenase to obtain a stromal vascular fraction (SVF). MSCs were characterized using RT-PCR. To ascertain the trilineage differentiation potential, MSCs were stained with respective stain for osteocytes, chondrocytes and adipocytes. Result: We observed elongated, spindle-shaped and fibroblast like appearance of cells after 72 h of initial culture. Expression of MSC specific surface markers were observed through RT-PCR. Using Stem Pro® differentiation medium, OSE were differentiated into osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic lineages and were found to be potential source for isolation, characterization and differentiation of MSCs. Canine (OSE) is easily accessible, multipotent and has high plasticity, holding promise for applications in regenerative medicine.