Introduction: Bleomycin is a chemotherapeutic agent that has been applied in the treatment of many tumors. Its application results in various cutaneous side effects. The role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells [BM-MSCs] has been proved in tissue regeneration.
Aim of the Work: Study of the effect of bleomycin on the histological structure of the skin of adult male albino rats and evaluation of the possible curative role of BM-MSCs.
Materials and Methods: Forty-five adult male albino rats were divided into two groups. Control group included 15 rats. Experimental group included 30 rats which were subdivided into three equal subgroups: 2A, 2B & 2C. Rats of the experimental group were injected with bleomycin subcutaneously for four weeks. Each rat of subgroup 2A received [0.1mg] of bleomycin. Each rat of subgroup 2B received [1ml] of the culture media of the bone marrow cells one day after the last bleomycin dose. Each rat of subgroup 2C received BM-MSCs (2.5×106) one day after the last bleomycin dose. Skin specimens were examined by the light and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical study was done by using antibodies to transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Evaluation of the collagen surface area percentage and the number of TGF-β positive cells was performed.
Results: Experimental subgroups 2A & 2B showed the disturbance of the normal architecture of the skin. There was a significant increase in the surface area percentage of collagen and number of TGF-β positive cells. Ultrastructurally, some keratinocytes showed cytoplasmic vacuolation, swollen disrupted mitochondria and nuclear changes. In contrast, the experimental subgroup 2C showed minimal structural changes and a non-significant difference in all mentioned parameters.
Conclusion: Bleomycin altered the normal structure of the skin of adult male albino rats. Bone marrow-derived MSC improved the skin changes induced by bleomycin.