Characterization of third-trimester amniotic fluid stem cells

Introduction: Amniotic fluid obtained from first- or second trimester amniocentesis has customarily been used for the cultivation of c-Kit positive amniotic fluid stem cells. These stem cells have been shown to have a vast differentiation potential and, most noteworthy, considerable genomic stability and a lack of teratoma formation upon injection into patients. These characteristics have made amniotic fluid stem cells of immeasurable value for their potential therapeutic use. The advent of various technological advances has, however, obviated the need for amniocentesis, thereby leading to a severe shortage of donor material for therapies.

Aim: An investigation has been launched into the use of third trimester amniotic fluid obtained from caesarean sections for stem cell therapy.

Results: Amniotic fluid obtained from the third trimester has been shown as a viable alternative source for amniotic fluid stem cells compared to amniotic fluid stem cells obtained from either the first- or second trimester. This study confirmed the presence of stem cell in third-trimester amniotic fluid using various stem cell markers, including surface markers SSEA-4 and Tra-1 – 81, and analysed the expression of these markers in association with c-Kit – the cell surface marker associated with amniotic fluid stem cells. This study, in addition, examined the differential gene expression profiles between primary and cultured c-Kit positive cells.

Conclusion: This study confirmed the presence of stem cells in third-trimester amniotic fluid and examined the differential gene expression profiles between primary and cultured c-Kit positive cells.