IL-4 Overexpression in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induced by Chlorzoxazone

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) secrete various proteins, including growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, known collectively as the secretome. The MSC-derived secretome has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach in regenerative medicine, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis. Additionally, the MSC secretome can be formulated into topical preparations, such as creams, for easier application. One key anti-inflammatory cytokine secreted by MSCs is interleukin-4 (IL-4), which protects cartilage during joint inflammation and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β. To enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the MSC secretome cream, MSCs were treated with various concentrations of chlorzoxazone (CZ) (0 µM, 5 µM, 10 µM, 20 µM, and 50 µM) to promote IL-4 overexpression. The concentration of IL-4 in the MSC secretome was quantified using ELISA. Results indicated that the most significant increase in IL-4 concentration occurred in the secretome of MSCs cultured with 20 µM CZ.