Functionally Enhanced Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Inhibit Adipogenesis in Orbital Fibroblasts With Graves’ Ophthalmopathy

The study explored the impact of PRL-1-overexpressing placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCsPRL-1) on adipogenesis in orbital fibroblasts from patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO). Involving 3 patients with GO and 3 controls, the research found that PD-MSCsPRL-1 significantly reduced lipid accumulation and adipogenic marker expression in these fibroblasts. This effect was mediated by the secretion of insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins, which modulated key signaling pathways. The modified PD-MSCs maintained their stemness and did not form teratomas, indicating safety and stability. The study concluded that PD-MSCsPRL-1 could offer a novel therapeutic strategy for GO by targeting adipogenesis and inflammation.