Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Amniotic Membrane to Neuronal Cells and the expression of PAX2 and NURR1 Genes

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have different sources, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord, amniotic fluid, and amniotic membrane. They have immunomodulatory properties. These cells can be used for the treatment of many neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. In this study, MSCs were isolated from the amniotic membrane, and their surface markers were investigated using flow cytometry. MSCs were differentiated to osteoblasts, adipocytes, and finally, to the nerve cells under the influence of epidermal, basic fibroblast natural growth factors, and two other media. The first medium included indomethacin, butyric acid, and ascorbic acid. The second one included retinoic acid and ascorbic acid. The expression of paired box gene 2 (PAX2) and nuclear receptor related-1 (NURR1) genes were investigated using real-time polymerase chain reaction and showed higher levels than that of controls. The presence of the expression of β-tubulin III and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAPII) was studied by immunocytochemistry. The result suggested that the second medium included retinoic acid was better than the first medium. Protecting neurons are important in neurological diseases, and the expression of mRNAs such as PAX2, NURR1, β-tubulin III, and MAPII plays an effective role in neural differentiation.