Quercetin and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Metabolism: A Comparative Analysis of Young and Senescent States.

Alexandra Ivan, Alexandra Teodora Lukinich-Gruia, Iustina-Mirabela Cristea, Maria-Alexandra Pricop, Crenguta Livia Calma, Alina-Georgiana Simina, Călin Adrian Tatu, Atena Galuscan, Virgil Păunescu

Department of Functional Sciences, Center of Immuno-Physiology (CIFBIOTEH), University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes", Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid renowned for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antibacterial properties, making it a highly promising candidate for the treatment of various medical conditions. Our current study investigates the influence of quercetin on energy metabolism, fatty acid composition, oxidative stress gene expression, and sirtuin expression in early- and late-stage passages of stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs). Mitochondrial respiration was analyzed by measuring oxygen consumption following a 24 h quercetin treatment, while fatty acid profiles were examined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to assess the expression of oxidative stress genes and sirtuins. In younger SHEDs, quercetin enhances metabolic activity and mitochondrial respiration, although higher doses may decrease mitochondrial activity. Conversely, in older, senescent SHEDs, quercetin supports mitochondrial function at lower concentrations but appears to inhibit respiration at higher doses. These results suggest that quercetin may hold therapeutic potential for maintaining SHED viability and function, especially at lower doses in older cells. Further research is essential to fully elucidate a dose-dependent effect of quercetin and optimize its applications in regenerative medicine.

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Research summary

The paper investigates the effects of quercetin on mesenchymal stem cells, particularly in the context of aging and cellular senescence. While it touches on metabolic activity and mitochondrial function, which are relevant to longevity, the focus remains on the treatment of cellular functions rather than addressing the root causes of aging. The findings contribute to understanding how quercetin may influence stem cell viability, but the overall impact on the field of longevity research is limited and incremental.

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