The preconditioning of lithium promotes mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy for the degenerated intervertebral disc via upregulating cellular ROS

Abstract Adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) is one of the most widely used candidate for intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration-related disease. However, poor survival and low differentiation efficacy in stressed host microenvironment limit therapeutic effects ADSC-based therapy. The preconditioning has been found effective to boost proliferation functioning cells varying pathological condition. Lithium a common anti-depression drug proved enhance functioning. In this study, using LiCl on cellular behavior ADSC was investigated, specially degenerative IVD-like Method toxicity rat assessed by detecting lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) production after treatment with concentration lithium chloride (LiCl). proliferative capacity determined Ki67 expression relative number ADSC. Then, preconditioned challenged And viability as well nucleus pulpous (NP) evaluated major marker extracellular matrix (ECM) deposit. were an IVD degeneration model, NP morphology ECM content assessed. Results A range 1–10 mmol/L applied following since higher causes death (about 40%). similar between groups control group preconditioning. elevated Consistently, showed stronger capacity. Besides, exhibit markers than induction. Moreover, reduced promoted deposits, when culture. Mechanically, induced increased reactive oxidative species (ROS) level activation ERK1/2, which closely related enhanced deposits better transplantation, preservation deposits. Conclusion These results suggest that medium boosts under normal or hostile culture condition via ROS/ERK axis. It promising pre-treatment promote regenerative capacity, superior untreated transplantation.