Objective: To isolate and culture rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and induce them to differentiate into photoreceptor cells in vitro.
Methods: It was a experimental study. MSCs were isolated and attached to the wall of culture dishes by their specific adherent ability. Then the cells were characterized by flow cytometry. MSCs were induced by murine EGF for 8-10 days in-vitro. Then we used immunohistochemistry staining and flow cytometry to see whether they could express rhodopsin and differentiated into photoreceptor cells.
Results: Many MSCs, which were highly purified, were obtained. After induction by EGF, 15.32% MSCs expressed rhodopsin.
Conclusion: After induction by EGF, approximately 15.32% MSCs could differentiate into photoreceptor cells.