In silico analysis of RNA and small RNA sequencing data from Human BM-MSCs and differentiated Osteocytes, Chondrocytes and Tenocytes

SUMMARY Background Adult stem cells have a remarkable capacity of differentiating into various cell types necessary for tissue and organ regeneration. Multiple studies have focused on the differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), however little is known about the molecular characteristics of MSCs and their progenies obtained from donors of different ages. In this study, we analyzed publicly available sequencing data obtained from young (∼22-year-old, n=8) and older (∼65.5-year-old, n=8) donors of MSCs and their differentiated counterparts: osteocytes, chondrocytes and tenocytes. The raw mRNA and small RNA (non-coding RNA) sequencing data was downloaded from NIH BioProjects and systematically analyzed in order to identify uniquely expressed genes in MSC-derived osteocytes, chondrocytes and tenocytes of younger and older people. Results We identified many commonly up- and downregulated genes are similar in both groups. However, the young group displayed a greater variety of differentially expressed genes in all analyzed MSC-derived cells. This discrepancy in gene expression profiles between younger and older groups may indicate a greater differentiation potential of MSCs isolated from younger donors. miRNA and mRNA integrated analysis showed key miRNAs that regulate mRNAs in both groups from all differentiated lineages. Conclusions Our analysis provides additional information to previously reported data for identification of MSC markers of plasticity and engraftment. In addition, our data may shed light upon the molecular mechanisms of age-associated musculoskeletal diseases caused by a decreased capacity of MSCs to regenerate the locomotor system in elderly people.