Activation and regulation of the granulation tissue derived cells with stemness-related properties

The study investigated the potential of granulation tissue-derived cells (GTCs) as a source of dermal stem cells for tissue repair. It found that GTCs, when activated by injury, exhibited enhanced proliferation, colony formation, and multi-differentiation capabilities. In a mouse model with combined radiation and skin wound injury, topical transplantation of GTCs accelerated wound healing and reduced tissue fibrosis. The study highlighted the role of microRNA-21 (miR-21) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in regulating the stemness-related properties of GTCs. Blocking miR-21 inhibited cell migration and differentiation but promoted proliferation and self-renewal through a ROS-dependent pathway, suggesting that granulation tissue could serve as an alternative source of adult stem cells for tissue replacement therapy.