Journal of Stem Cell Research & Therapy

Abstract

Pap Test as the First Step in Screening Genetic Stability in Cell-Based Therapy

Ana C. Irioda, Larissa Zocche, Carolina M. C. O. Souza, Reginaldo J. Ferreira, Eduardo Aliprandini, Ricardo C. Cunha, Julio C. Francisco, Luiz C. GuaritaSouza, Mariester Malvezzi, Miriam P. Beltrame, Lismary A. F. Mesquita, Diogo Kuczera, Jean C. Chachques and Katherine A. T. Carvalho

The possibility of cell modifications compromises the safety of stem cell therapy under standardized conditions. The aim of this study was to analyze adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) using the Pap test as a first screening step to evaluate genetic stability. Methods: Human adipose tissue from six healthy female donors was obtained from elective liposuction procedures. The cells were isolated, cultivated at P2/P3, characterized by flow cytometric analysis, and differentiation induced. The AT-MSCs were stained by Papanicolaou (Pap) staining and analyzed according to the Bethesda classification, and viability-apoptosis relationships were evaluated. Results: The Pap test for Sample I indicated high-grade alterations consistent with genetic instability; for Samples II-V, atypical cells of undetermined significance; and for Sample VI, normal cells. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the potential of using the Pap test as an initial screening step to evaluate the genetic stability of cultured AT-MSCs as well for other adherent stem cells.