Algipore effects on stem cells derived from peripheral blood

Aim: Algipore is a marine derived highly porous carbonated red alga, chemically converted into hydroxyapatite. Due to its porosity, Algipore adsorbs physiologic fluids so that cytokines and growth factors permeate in full thickness the material, allowing bone forming cells to colonize and differentiate inside. However, how this material alters osteoblast activity to promote bone formation is currently under research. To evaluate how Algipore can induce osteoblast differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells, the expression levels of bone related genes and mesenchymal stem cells marker were analyzed, using real time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Materials and methods: Quantitative real-time RT-PCR of SP7 and BGLAP showed a significant induction while RUNX2 showed a slight induction after treatment with Algipore. However, Algipore treatment did not affect the mRNA expression of ALPL that was similarly in both treated and untreated mesenchymal stem cells. Results: COL1A1, COL3A1, ENG and SPP1 were significantly decreased in the presence of Algipore at day 7. FOSL was slightly decreased in the presence of Algipore. Conclusion: These results could be relevant to better understand the molecular mechanism of bone regeneration and as a model for comparing other materials with similar clinical effects.