Fig. 3

Multiple UC-MSC infusions promoted macrophage polarization towards the M2 phenotype in epididymal adipose tissues. a Representative Fizz1-positive cells (M2 macrophage marker) in epididymal adipose tissue analysed by immunofluorescence and quantification of Fizz1-positive cells. Scale bar = 100 μm. b Representative iNOS-positive cells (M1 macrophage marker) in epididymal adipose tissue analysed by immunofluorescence and quantification of iNOS-positive cells. Scale bar = 100 μm. Values in a and b were determined by assessing cells manually from at least five sections of each slide, at least 3 slides per mouse, and at least 6 mice per group. c Immunoblotting analysis of Arg1 expression in epididymal adipose tissue. Relative protein levels were quantified by the ratio of Arg1 to β-actin (d). e Real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of macrophage phenotype-related gene expression in epididymal adipose tissue. The results are presented relative to those of normal mice, which were set as 1. Values are the mean ± SD; n = 6 mice per group, *P < 0.05; **P < 0.01