Distinctive responses of mesenchymal stem cells to medium formulation under electrical stimulation

Background \u0026 Aim Background Micromass of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) contains a high-density number of cells that may intimately interact with each other and influence the formation of highly condensed aggregates. Understanding of characteristic discrepancies between normal FBS media and serum-free MSC media would, therefore, be valuable for improving electrical stimulated chondrogenic differentiation. Aim Here, we investigate distinct differences in media formulation-dependent responses between FBS growth media and commercial MSC serum-free media Methods, Results \u0026 Conclusion Methods Multiple tissue-derived MSCs from dogs were detached from the flasks by trypsin and plated in micromass droplets. 1 hour later, droplets were incubated in normal FBS growth media or commercial serum-free MSC media under electrical stimulation for 3 days. Images of micromass under ES were captured using a phase-contrast and mass was analyzed by qPCR. Results We found that impaired condensation of micromass might be linked with the medium formulation and that serum-free formulation might support some critical factors for adhesion of mesenchymal stem cells. We also found micromass in serum-free media failed to properly respond to electrical stimulation. However, serum-free exposed ES mass significantly induced COL2A1 in MSCs, suggesting further fine-tuned conditions. Conclusion Collectively, our finding suggests that serum-free condition acts as an ambivalent factor, providing a potential explanation for the molecular basis of chondrogenic condensation using MSCs.