Impairment in immuno-modulatory function of Flk1+CD31−CD34− MSCs from MDS-RA patients

MDS-RA patient-derived Flk1+CD31−CD34− MSCs showed normal morphology, phenotype and karyotype but appeared impaired in immuno-modulatory function. The capacity of patient Flk1+CD31−CD34− MSCs to inhibit T lymphocyte activation and proliferation was impaired in vitro. In conclusion, MDS-RA patient-derived MSCs have impaired immuno-modulatory functions, suggesting that the dysregulation of hematopoiesis and immune response may originate from MSCs rather than HSCs. MSCs might be a potential target for developing efficacious cures for MDS.