[In vitro differentiation of rat mesenchymal stem cells into photoreceptors].
OBJECTIVE
To isolate and culture rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and induce them to differentiate into photoreceptor cells in vitro.


METHODS
It was a experimental study. MSCs were isolated and attached to the wall of culture dishes by their specific adherent ability. Then the cells were characterized by flow cytometry. MSCs were induced by murine EGF for 8-10 days in-vitro. Then we used immunohistochemistry staining and flow cytometry to see whether they could express rhodopsin and differentiated into photoreceptor cells.


RESULTS
Many MSCs, which were highly purified, were obtained. After induction by EGF, 15.32% MSCs expressed rhodopsin.


CONCLUSIONS
After induction by EGF, approximately 15.32% MSCs could differentiate into photoreceptor cells.
Zhang
Zhi-qiao
ZQ
Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China.
Dong
Fang-tian
FT
D000818:Animals; D001854:Bone Marrow Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008297:Male; D059630:Mesenchymal Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D010786:Photoreceptor Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley