Proteomic profiling of the human amniotic stem cell-highly abundant secreted proteins

Abstract

Amnion-derived stem cells exhibit several significant advantages, including low immunogenicity, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and angiogenic properties, which have garnered considerable attention as a potential source for cell therapy. Numerous studies have demonstrated that proteins secreted by amniotic stem cells play a crucial role in facilitating regenerative processes and reflect the therapeutic benefits across various diseases. Secreted protein products from stem cells offer solutions to challenges in cell therapy, such as improving efficacy during in situ or intravenous administration. These products also hold significant clinical and commercial potential. Nonetheless, the establishment of stringent quality control standards for secreted proteins from both amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) and amniotic epithelial cells (AECs) continues to pose a significant challenge. In this study, the expression profiles of secreted proteins from AMSCs and AECs were comprehensively analyzed utilizing mass spectrometry-based proteomics. The 71 highly abundant proteins and their potential biological functions were further investigated. Moreover, we identified and confirmed 17 hub proteins. Notably, ANXA2 was observed to enhance the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. These findings may inform quality control measures for secreted protein products derived from amniotic stem cells and provide valuable insights for future research on the functional aspects of the secreted proteome in amniotic stem cells.