Development of a Simple Selection Protocol for Optimizing the Harvest of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Explanted Human Umbilical Cord Wharton's Jelly

The study aimed to develop a protocol to optimize the harvest of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from human umbilical cord Wharton's jelly using an explant culture technique. This method does not require proteolytic enzymes, making it advantageous over enzymatic methods. The researchers confirmed the MSCs' identity through colony-forming assays, RT-PCR, and ISCT criteria. The study found that explants could be successfully transferred and yield cells for five consecutive transfers, with a reduction in cell migration observed after the third transfer. This technique optimized the yield of primary cells, reducing the need for frequent sample collection, processing time, and cost.