Comparison of mesenchymal stem cells and leukocytes from Large White and Gottingen Minipigs: Clues for stem cell-based immunomodulatory therapies

The mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are one of the most promising cell types for human and veterinary use and their therapeutic effect is associated with their immunomodulatory properties. Farm animal models, such as pigs, have become a valuable tool to evaluate the safety and efficacy of adoptively transferred MSCs in the setting of veterinary medicine. In order to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of stem cell-based therapies in porcine breeds, a deep analysis and comparison of MSCs and leukocyte subsets are absolutely necessary. Here we provide a detailed analysis of bone-marrow derived MSCs and leukocyte subsets from Large White pigs and Gottingen Minipigs. Significant differences were observed between the two pig breeds in terms of T cell subsets that need to be considered for immune monitoring of stem cell-based therapies. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.