Comparison of miRNA cargo in human adipose-tissue vs. amniotic-membrane derived mesenchymal stromal cells extracellular vesicles for osteoarthritis treatment

Aim: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) emerged as a promising therapeutic option for osteoarthritis (OA) management, in particular those isolated from adipose tissue (hASCs) and amniotic membrane (hAMSCs). The cartilage protective and immunomodulatory features of hASCs and hAMSCs are ascribed to secreted factors, including extracellular vesicles (EVs) and embedded miRNAs. The purpose of this study was to compare EVs and shuttled miRNAs from both MSC types and discuss them in the frame of OA pathological tissues. Methods: Human hASCs and hAMSCs were analyzed by flow cytometry. EVs were analyzed by flow cytometry, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and electron microscopy. High-throughput qRT-PCR miRNA data available in the literature were compared. Abundant miRNAs and their experimentally validated targets were associated with those reported to drive OA pathology at cartilage, synovia, and macrophage levels. Four tools (Genorm, Normfinder, BestKeeper, and Delta Ct) were used to identify EVs stable reference genes. Results: EVs did not show phenotypical or dimensional differences between the two sources, with hAMSCs releasing more particles. In total, 307 EV miRNAs were identified, with 306 shared. Several of the most abundant miRNAs target OA-driving factors and are involved in cartilage and synovia protective mechanisms, with hAMSC-EVs’ preponderance for M2 anti-inflammatory macrophage commitment. miR-34a-5p emerged as the most stable reference gene. Conclusion: Both hASCs and hAMSCs release EVs enriched in joint-protective and anti-inflammatory miRNAs, supporting their use for treatment of joint diseases. Future comparative clinical studies would be needed to test whether hAMSCs’ higher EV secretion and enhanced M2 macrophage polarizing miRNA cargo allow for potentially increased OA therapeutic features.