2014

Noor Atiqah Fakharuzi, Ahmad Zuhairi Abd Rahman, Gurbind Singh, Nurul Ain Nassim, Kamal S Fakiruddin, Lim Moon Nian, Puteri J Noor M Baharuddin, Salehhuddin Hamdan, Anish Sen Majumdar, Zubaidah Zakaria (2014).Non-invasive in vivo tracking, biodistribution and  fate of human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in rat model. Regenerative Research 3(2): 127-129

In this study, we aimed to establish an in-vivo tracking technique that would enable better understanding and monitoring the homing pattern and fate of MSCs after transplantation. Our approach is based on first to develop a non-genomic integrated labeling technique of MSCs with CM-DiI dye, followed by tracking of the cell migration using the In Vivo Imaging System. DiI-labeled MSCs were intravenously injected into nude rats, and the signal localization was monitored over several days. Cell migration with intense signal was observed in the upper thoracic region following transplantation. The signals subsequently decreased after 24 hours indicating the re-distribution of cells from lung to other organs. Histological analysis also revealed that the labeled cells deposited in the vital organs of the rats. In summary, this real time imaging technique plays a crucial role in tracking the cells and for long-term assessment of cell fate and ultimately increases therapeutic potential.