Figure 2

MSCs genetically engineered to secrete IFN-β injected into the rat internal carotid artery can penetrate the BBB and home to U87 glioblastoma cells within the central nervous system (CNS). Administration of these genetically engineered MSCs through the rat’s tail vein or subcutaneously does not lead to penetration of the BBB or MSC tumor homing. This tropic mechanism is mediated by several receptor ligand combinations and is correlated with bulk tumor size reduction.