Locally injected Mesenchymal Stem Cells optimize angiogenesis by regulating VEGF and CD31 expression in duodenal perforation

BACKGROUND: Duodenal perforation is considered as one of gastrointestinal emergency with high morbidity and mortality rate. The MSCs have the ability to improve wound healing by releasing several growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines to promote the angiogenesis process. This study aimed to investigate the role of MSCs in duodenal perforation wound healing. METHODS: MSCs were isolated from rat umbilical cord and injected into duodenal wound site at doses of 1.5x10 [(Putra et al., 2018) 66 cells for T1 group and 3x10 [(Putra et al., 2018) 66 cells for T2 group. The control group was treated by local injection of normal saline. The VEGF levels were measured by Western blot, while CD31 expression was analyzed using immunohistochemistry staining. All examinations were assessed on days 3 and 7. RESULTS: Results showed a significant increase in VEGF and CD31 expression on days 3 and 7 (p < 0,05). The VEGF level was significantly decreased on day 7 compared to day 3. CONCLUSION: The administration of MSCs improved the angiogenesis process in duodenal perforation by enhancing VEGF and CD31 expression.