The effects of progestrone on the in-vitro expression of P0, S100 and Krox20 genes in adipose-derived stem cells

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have noticeable self-renewal ability and can differentiate into several cell lines such as adipocytes, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and myocytes. Progesterone plays a significant role in the myelination of peripheral nerves. Regarding the role of progesterone on the myelination of peripheral nervous system, we evaluated its effects on the in-vitro expression of P0, S100 and Krox20 mRNA in adipose-derived stem cells.

In this experimental study, rat adipose-derived stem cells were isolated from the inguinal region of the animals and were evaluated by flow cytometry before culture. In preinduction phase, the cells were sequentially treated with various factors such as β-mercaptoethanol and all-trans-retinoic acid, followed by different induction mixtures. The cells were divided into four groups including two control groups (receiving either fibroblast and platelet derived-growth factors, or fibroblast growth factor, platelet derived-growth factor, forskolin and heregulin) and two experimental groups (receiving either fibroblast growth factor, platelet derived-growth factor, forskolin and progesterone, or fibroblast growth factor, platelet derived-growth factor, heregulin and progesterone). Expression of Schwann cell markers, S-100, P0 and Krox20 mRNA, was determined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR.

ADSCs expressed CD90, CD73, and CD31 but showed lack of CD45, and VEGFR2 expression. After the induction stage, S-100, P0 and Krox20 mRNA were expressed in the progesterone receiving experimental groups, but expression of S-100 and Krox20 mRNA were less than the control group which was receiving forskolin and heregulin (P<0.0001).

Progesterone can promote the in-vitro expression of S-100, P0, and Krox20 genes in adipose-derived stem cells.