Development of a novel gene expression panel for the characterization of MSCs for increased biological safety

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have a wide range of therapeutic applications due to their multipotency, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Their ability to migrate and recolonize damaged tissues is also remarkable. However, the controversial occurrence of spontaneous tumorigenesis or malignant transformation of MSCs raises concerns about proposed cell-based therapies for patients that researchers must address. There are several in vitro and in vivo strategies for MSC safety approval, but there is still no described coherent scheme that allows the assessment of MSC oncogenic potential in a simple, robust, and reproducible manner. Here, we have developed a diagnostic panel of molecular markers that allows for the accurate verification of the quality and safety of MSCs. Moreover, presented in this article diagnostic panel that can define the origin and tumorigenicity of MSCs can be easily introduced into the routine quality control processes of MSC-based product manufacturing which will improve further clinical applications of MSCs.