EN
Many types of neural progenitors from different sources have been tested for experimental therapy in CNS injuries. We have established neural stem cell line from human cord blood (HUCB-NSC). In vitro evidence has suggested that HUCB-NSC are not immunogenic however their transplantation (tx) into adult rats led to the graft cell rejection. The question arises what is the nature of the host immune response to transplanted HUCB-NSC? Methods: 2 × 104 HUCBNSC were tx into corpus callosum of a focal brain injury induced by OUA injection (1 μl/5 mmol) into striatum of adult Wistar rats. At 1, 3, 7 and 14 days thereafter brains were removed and immunocytochemical analysis for T cells (CD5), B cells (CD45), macrophages (ED1) and neutrophils (CD15) was performed. Results: One day after HUCB-NSC tx, most cells remained in the injection site and only few cells migrated to the lesion area. Concomitantly, infi ltration of ED1+ and CD15+ cells with occasional appearance of CD5+ and CD45+ cells was seen around the graft and close to the lesion. At 3rd day after HUCB-NSC tx, the infi ltrate of ED1+ cells increased however, the number of CD15+, CD5+ and CD45+ cells stayed unchanged. At 7th day after HUCB-NSC tx, the number of ED1+ and CD15+ cells was reduced dramatically compare to the 3rd day and only single CD5+ and CD45+ cells were observed. By 14 days, limited number of ED1+, CD15+, CD5+ and CD45+ cells were found most likely due to the scar formation and rejection of HUCB-NSC. At that time no viable HUCB-NSC have been noticed in brain tissue of the host Conclusion: Transfer of HUCB-NSC into ouabain induced brain lesion rats elicits innate (macrophages/neutrophils) and adaptive (T/B lymphocytes) immune response in the acute phase post-transplantation. Supported by MSHE grant No 142/P01/2008/35