miR-146a-5p circuitry uncouples cell proliferation and migration, but not differentiation, in human mesenchymal stem cells. Homo sapiens

Administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has the potential to ameliorate degenerative disorders and to repair damaged tissues. The homing of transplanted MSCs to injured sites is a critical property of engraftment. Our aim was to identify microRNAs involved in controlling MSC proliferation and migration. MSCs can be isolated from bone marrow and umbilical cord Wharton's jelly (BM-MSCs and WJ-MSCs, respectively), and WJ-MSCs show poorer motility yet have a better amplification rate compared to BM-MSCs. Overall design: One human BM-MSC (pooled sample of 4 independent donors), one human WJ-MSC (pooled sample of 3 independent donors), and differentiated osteocytes and adipocytes derived from BM-MSCs after 2 weeks induction.