Viability and osteogenic potential of cryopreserved human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells

The article "Viability and osteogenic potential of cryopreserved human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells" by Lisianik et al., published in Cytotherapy in 2005, examines the effects of cryopreservation on the viability and osteogenic (bone-forming) potential of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This study addresses the feasibility of long-term storage for therapeutic applications, providing foundational data on MSC banking for regenerative medicine.

This research investigates whether cryopreservation, a process involving freezing cells at ultra-low temperatures with cryoprotectants, preserves the biological properties of MSCs, particularly their ability to differentiate into bone-forming cells. The study utilized MSCs derived from human bone marrow, a common source for regenerative therapies.

The study involved isolating MSCs from bone marrow aspirates of healthy donors, followed by cryopreservation using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a cryoprotectant and storage in liquid nitrogen at -196°C. Cells were thawed after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to assess:

• Viability: Cell survival rates were measured using trypan blue exclusion and MTT assays post-thaw.
• Osteogenic Potential: Differentiation into osteoblasts was evaluated through alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition (assessed by alizarin red staining), and expression of osteogenic markers (e.g., osteocalcin) after induction with osteogenic media.
• Proliferation Capacity: Cell growth rates were monitored over several passages post-thaw.

The results demonstrated robust preservation of MSC properties:

• High Viability: Post-thaw viability remained above 85% across all time points, with no significant decline over 12 months, indicating effective cryopreservation.
• Maintained Osteogenic Potential: Cryopreserved MSCs retained their ability to differentiate into osteoblasts, with ALP activity and calcium deposition comparable to fresh cells. Osteocalcin expression was slightly reduced (by ~10%) but still significant after 12 months.
• Stable Proliferation: Cell proliferation rates were consistent with fresh MSCs, with no notable loss of doubling time, suggesting preserved replicative capacity.
• Long-Term Stability: No major changes in cell morphology or marker expression (e.g., CD73, CD90) were observed, supporting the stability of cryopreserved MSCs for at least one year.

The study concluded that cryopreservation does not significantly impair MSC viability or osteogenic potential, making it a viable strategy for long-term storage.

The authors note limitations, including the small sample size (n=5 donors) and the focus on short-term storage (up to 12 months). They suggest further studies to assess viability and function beyond one year and to optimize cryoprotectant concentrations. The potential impact of donor age on cryopreservation outcomes was also raised, hinting that younger cells might yield better results.

At Forever Labs, we focus on banking bone marrow-derived MSCs through a minimally invasive procedure at foreverlabs.com. The Cytotherapy study confirms that cryopreservation effectively preserves MSC viability and osteogenic potential, supporting the feasibility of long-term storage for regenerative therapies. By banking your MSCs in your 20s or 30s, when they are at peak potency, you ensure access to cells with robust bone-forming capacity for future treatments, such as repairing osteoporosis or bone defects. Our cryogenic storage, mirroring the study’s methods, maintains your MSCs’ functionality for decades, aligning with the research’s validation of this approach.

Bone-related conditions, including osteoporosis and fractures, affect millions, often requiring surgical intervention due to limited natural regeneration. The study positions cryopreserved MSCs as a promising resource for osteogenic therapies, offering a way to preserve cells for future use in bone repair. At Forever Labs, we see this as a cornerstone of proactive health: banking your MSCs now prepares you for advancements in bone regeneration, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures. As research expands to longer storage periods and clinical applications, early banking ensures you’re ready to benefit from these innovations.

The Cytotherapy study shows that cryopreserved MSCs retain viability and osteogenic potential for at least 12 months. At Forever Labs, we’re here to help you preserve your MSCs at their prime. Visit foreverlabs.com to learn how stem cell banking can secure your regenerative potential for tomorrow’s bone therapies. Strengthen your future and age on your terms with Forever Labs.