Galactosylation of rat natural scaffold for MSC differentiation into hepatocyte-like cells: A comparative analysis of 2D vs. 3D cell culture techniques

The liver plays a crucial role in drug detoxification, and the main source of liver transplants is brain-dead patients. However, the demand for transplants exceeds the available supply, leading to controversies in selecting suitable candidates for acute liver diseases. This research aimed to differentiate mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into hepatocyte-like cells using galactosylated rat natural scaffolds and comparing 2-D and 3-D cell culture methods. The study involved isolating and culturing Wharton's jelly cells from the umbilical cord, examining surface markers and adipogenic differentiation potential of MSCs, and culturing mesenchymal cells on galactosylated scaffolds. The growth and proliferation of stem cells on the scaffolds were evaluated using the MTT test, and urea synthesis was measured in different culture environments. Changes in gene expression were analyzed using real-time PCR. Flow cytometry results confirmed the presence of specific surface antigens on MSCs, indicating their identity, while the absence of a specific antigen indicated their differentiation into adipocytes. The MTT test revealed higher cell attachment to galactosylated scaffolds compared to the control groups. Urea secretion was observed in differentiated cells, with the highest levels in cells cultured on galactosylated scaffolds. Gene expression analysis showed differential expression patterns for OCT-4, HNF1, ALB, AFP, and CYP genes under different conditions. The findings indicated that hepatocyte-like cells derived from 3D cultures on galactosylated scaffolds exhibited superior characteristics compared to cells in other culture conditions. These cells demonstrated enhanced proliferation, stability, and urea secretion ability. The study also supported the differentiation potential of MSCs derived from Wharton's jelly umbilical cord into liver-like cells.