The antimicrobial potential of the secretome from Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells in the context of regenerative medicine: an in vitro study - Report - MDSpire

The antimicrobial potential of the secretome from Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells in the context of regenerative medicine: an in vitro study

  • By

  • Filomena Napolitano

  • Emanuela Roscetto

  • Maria Fabozzi

  • Martina Aversa

  • Pietro Formisano

  • Maria Rosaria Catania

  • Nunzia Montuori

  • May 5, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Antimicrobial Properties of Wharton’s Jelly MSC Secretome

Overview

This study investigates the antimicrobial properties of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cell secretome (WJ-MSC-CM) and its potential applications in regenerative medicine. Findings indicate that WJ-MSC-CM enhances antioxidant responses in fibroblasts and exhibits antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.

Background

Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are recognized for their rapid proliferation and unique secretome, which may offer advantages over other stem cell sources. The secretome contains bioactive molecules that can modulate inflammation and promote tissue repair, making it a promising candidate for regenerative therapies. Understanding the antimicrobial properties of WJ-MSC-CM is crucial as it may enhance wound healing and tissue regeneration.

Data Highlights

ParameterResult
ROS LevelsElevated in WJ-MSC-CM-treated fibroblasts
Antioxidant System ActivityUpregulated in fibroblast homogenates
Antibacterial ActivityInhibitory against Staphylococcus aureus
Antimicrobial PeptidesSignificant levels detected in WJ-MSC-CM

Key Findings

  • WJ-MSC-CM enhances antioxidant responses in fibroblasts exposed to hydrogen peroxide.
  • WJ-MSC-CM protects against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity.
  • Significant levels of antimicrobial peptides are present in WJ-MSC-CM.
  • WJ-MSC-CM demonstrates antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria.
  • The unique secretome of WJ-MSCs supports tissue repair and regeneration.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that WJ-MSC-CM could be utilized as a therapeutic agent to enhance wound healing and tissue regeneration, particularly in cases of infection. Clinicians may consider incorporating WJ-MSC-CM in treatment protocols for chronic wounds and other regenerative applications.

Conclusion

WJ-MSC-CM exhibits promising antimicrobial properties and antioxidant effects, supporting its potential role in regenerative medicine. Further research is warranted to explore its clinical applications.

References

  1. Napolitano et al., Journal of Gastroenterology, 2019 -- The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Secretome in Acellular Regenerative Approaches for Liver Disorders
  2. BJS, 2023 -- 19 Antimicrobial Peptide-Enhanced Gelatin-Modified Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels for the Management of Chronic Wounds
  3. Archives of Toxicology, 2020 -- The Role of Aged Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Impaired Wound Healing Following Exposure to Sulfur Mustard
  4. WHS guidelines update, 2023 -- Diabetic foot ulcer treatment guidelines
  5. PMC, 2024 -- The transforming role of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes for diabetic foot ulcer healing: a randomized controlled clinical trial
  6. Archives of Toxicology — Impact of Antineoplastic Treatments on the In Vitro Characteristics and Functionality of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
  7. Frontiers | Antibacterial effects of human mesenchymal stem cells and their derivatives: a systematic review
  8. WHS (Wound Healing Society) guidelines update: Diabetic foot ulcer treatment guidelines
  9. The transforming role of wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes for diabetic foot ulcer healing: a randomized controlled clinical trial - PMC

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