Background: BM-MSCs are potential candidates for the treatment of MI. In vitro hypoxia pretreatment of BM-MSCs improves survival, proliferation, and homing of these cells. The present study aims to investigate the effect of hypoxia on the growth, survival, and differentiation potential of these cells.

Methods: Ten male SD rats were obtained from the animal house of the university. Bone marrow was collected, cells were isolated, and cultured. Cells were divided into hypoxic (1%) and normoxic (21%) groups. Hypoxia was given for 0h, 12h, 24h, 36h, and 48h. MTT and crystal violet assays were performed for cell viability. The 24h hypoxic and normoxic groups were treated with 5-AZA for cardiac differentiation, and morphology was observed. 

Results: Improved cellular growth, proliferation, and survival in the hypoxic group. MTT and crystal violet results showed the highest proliferation at 24 h of hypoxia. A decline in growth was observed at 36-48 h of hypoxia. Cardiomyocyte–like morphology was observed with better growth in 24h hypoxia as compared to normoxia.

Conclusion: In vitro hypoxia treatment caused improved growth, survival, and differentiation potential of BM-MSC.