Figure 2.

Venn diagram illustrating common and differing properties between adult mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs; gray oval) and Wharton’s jelly-derived cells (WJCs, umbilical cord matrix cells; yellow oval). Adult MSCs are defined by International Society for Cellular Therapy working group as cells that are plastic adherent, possess specific surface markers, and are capable of differentiating into multiple mesenchymal lineages, (e.g., bone, cartilage, muscle, tendon, adipose, etc.). As indicated by the overlap, the WJCs share these properties. Similarly, as discussed within, stromal support, specific immune properties of low immunogenicity and immune suppression, and the ability to migrate to pathology are taken to be properties of adult MSCs. These properties are observed in WJCs. Also indicated, adult MSCs have limited expansion capability in vitro before their multipotency is compromised. In contrast, Wharton’s jelly cells can be expanded >15 passages. WJCs, like MSCs from other sources, can serve as feeders for embryonic-like stem cells and for hematopoietic stem cells. In contrast to adult MSCs, WJCs may be derived from extra-embryonic tissue; this may explain why those cells express human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) isoform and glial derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Abbreviation: ???, unknown.