Muse cells are a type of stem cell discovered relatively recently in 2010. They are a unique subset of stem cells that have garnered significant attention for their remarkable regenerative properties and stress tolerance. Keep reading for more information about what makes Muse cells unique and the latest research into their efficacy.
Muse-what?
Muse cells, or Multilineage Differentiating Stress Enduring (MUSE) cells, are derived from various tissues’ mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). What truly distinguishes Muse cells is their origin–they were isolated from MSCs under severe cellular stress conditions, a testament to their inherent resilience.
Benefits of Muse Cells
One of the most promising aspects of Muse cells is their nontumorigenic activity. Unlike other stem cells that often develop tumours during growth, Muse cells, observed for six months after being injected into mice, show no such formation. This exciting discovery paves the way for their potential in clinical applications.
Another benefit of Muse cells is their paracrine effects. Paracrine effects refer to the signalling mechanisms in which cells release molecules, such as growth factors, cytokines, or hormones, to influence nearby cells. Muse cells express factors like MMP-2, MMP-9, HGF, and VEGF, which help prevent scar formation while regenerating new blood vessels. They also demonstrate immunosuppressive properties to decrease inflammation through various mechanisms, including activation of regulatory T cells and downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, suggesting their potential therapeutic role in immune-related disorders like Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Muse cells have also been shown to be better at moving towards areas of injury or inflammation in the body. For example, studies have shown that compared to conventional MSCs, Muse cells migrate better toward injured hearts. They follow a pathway involving S1P, a substance released by damaged heart tissue. While MSCs use a different pathway involving SDF-1, Muse cells rely more on S1P, making them more efficient at healing.
Research on Muse Cells
Many animal studies have highlighted the promise of Muse cells for healing various tissues. When implanted, these cells migrate to damaged areas and naturally transform into new functional cells, aiding tissue repair.
Nervous System: In stroke cases, Muse cells mobilize to the damaged brain and become new neurons, improving recovery. They also integrate into damaged areas caused by brain hemorrhages, promoting healing and enhancing motor skills.
Cardiovascular System: After heart attacks (also known as myocardial infarction), Muse cells increase in concentration in the blood and repair the damaged heart tissue, improving heart function. They can also differentiate into heart and blood vessel cells, reducing scar tissue.
Liver Disease: Muse cells injected into damaged livers differentiate into liver cells, improving liver function and reducing scarring. They spontaneously transform into various liver cell types, potentially treating liver diseases.
Lung Injuries: Muse cells can treat lung injuries by improving lung function and reducing tissue damage. They also prevent cell death and stimulate the growth of lung cells, aiding in tissue repair.
Kidney Disease: Muse cells can repair damaged kidneys by integrating into damaged areas and transforming into kidney cells, improving kidney function and reducing scarring.
Osteochondral Defects: Muse cells can repair bone and cartilage defects by filling in damaged areas and promoting bone repair.
Skin Regeneration: Mue cells derived from skin cells can become melanocytes, promoting skin pigmentation and being relevant for diseases that destroy melanocytes, like vitiligo. They can also differentiate into various skin cells, aiding wound healing and regeneration.
The latest research in regenerative medicine suggests that Muse cells hold great potential for treating various medical conditions and injuries, offering hope for improved therapies in regenerative medicine. Eterna Health is one of the few clinics in the world that provides exclusive access to the remarkable healing potential of Muse cells.
