Comparative study on the effect of low intensity laser and growth factors on stem cells used in experimentally-induced liver fibrosis in mice

Background and study aims: The therapeutic effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) exposed to diode laser and/or hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) were compared in mice with experimental liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetra chloride (CCl4). Material and methods: Animal model of liver cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 in a dose of 0.4 ml/kg, twice a week for 6 weeks. UC-MSCs were obtained from normal full term placentas and were exposed to diode laser and/or HGF. Before treatment, UC-MSCs were labelled with red fluorescent PKH26. Fifty four male mice weighing 25-35 g were randomly divided into four groups control, stem cells, CCl4, and treated groups. After the experimental period, body and liver weights were recorded, and the liver specimens were processed for histological examination using haematoxylin and eosin, Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson's Trichrome staining (MT). Results: Results showed that administration of UC-MSCs stimulated by diode laser and/or HGF improved body and liver weights, reduced vascular dilatation and congestion, reduced mononuclear cellular infiltration, reduced hepatocyte vacuolation, eosinophilia, and pyknosis. Furthermore, periportal fibrosis was minimized and PAS reaction was increased. These effects were maximum when UC-MSCs were exposed to both diode laser and HGF. Conclusion: UC-MSCs stimulated by both diode laser and HGF proved to be an effective therapeutic option in experimental liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 in mice. (C) 2017 Pan-Arab Association of Gastroenterology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.