Publications by authors named "ThiKem Nguyen"

Obesity has been known to negatively modulate the life-span and immunosuppressive potential of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC). However, it remains unclear what drives the compromised potency of obese MSC. In this study, we examined the involvement of adiponectin, an adipose tissue-derived hormone, in obesity-induced impaired therapeutic function of MSC.

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Leptin, an adipose tissue-derived hormone, exhibits potent tumor promoting effects through various mechanisms. Cathepsin B, a member of the lysosomal cysteine proteases, has been shown to modulate the growth of cancer cells. In this study, we have investigated the role of cathepsin B signaling in leptin-induced hepatic cancer growth.

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Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is an emerging treatment strategy to counteract metabolic syndromes, including obesity and its comorbid disorders. However, its effectiveness is challenged by various factors in the obese environment that negatively impact MSC survival and function. The identification of these detrimental factors will provide opportunities to optimize MSC therapy for the treatment of obesity and its comorbidities.

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Article Synopsis
  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are versatile cells with therapeutic potential, but their effectiveness is hindered by issues like poor survival and low engraftment after transplantation.
  • Spheroidal 3D culture techniques improve MSC functionality, yet the reasons for this enhancement are not fully understood.
  • The study reveals that forming MSC spheroids reduces NLRP3 inflammasome activation, promoting better survival and functionality by lowering cell death pathways, and this effect is confirmed in an animal model of colitis.
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