Modification of EPCs with Synthetic mRNA for Improved Angiogenesis

Objectives: Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are the stem cells in the adult human body which enable the neovascularization of ischemic tissues. However, the low number and homing capacity of EPCs hamper the successful application of these cells. Thus, we delivered synthetic mRNAs encoding proangiogenic factors into mouse EPCs and examined the influence on angiogenic potential of EPCs.

Methods: Using ELISA, the production of proangiogenic proteins was analyzed after the transfection of murine EPCs with mRNAs. Chemotactic activity and wound healing capacity of mRNA modified EPCs were assessed. Using in vivo chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, the angiogenic potential was verified.

Results: EPCs transfected with synthetic mRNA produced the desired proangiogenic factors. An improved chemotactic activity and wound healing capacity were detected in EPCs modified with synthetic mRNAs. The application of mRNA modified EPCs in CAM assay resulted in increased vessel density compared with unmodified EPCs.

Conclusion: The modification of EPCs with synthetic mRNA has the potential to increase the angiogenic potential of EPCs for the neovascularization of ischemic tissues.