Protective effect of mesenchymal stem cells des (MSC) on hypoxia induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of alveolar epithelial cells (AEC)

The current paradigm suggests a central role of the epithelium in pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis and progression. Hypoxia may promote myofibroblasts accumulation by facilating EMT. In animal models of lung fibrosis, administration of bone marrow derived MSC may reduce fibrosis and mortality. We hypothesized that MSC may favor alveolar wound healing by preventing hypoxia-induced EMT. We examined the role of hypoxia on AECs' phenotype in vitro and tested paracrine effects of MSC on these modifications. Involved mechanisms have been studied. Rat AEC were exposed in vitro to hypoxia (3% and 1.5%) during short or lo…