[What's new in fundamental research: osteogenesis and stem cells]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are progenitors of osteoblasts, chondrocytes and adipocytes. They are in the bone marrow at the concentration of 1 to 104 at 105 mononucleated cells. There is not specific marker to select them. They can be cultured and differentiated in osteoblats or chondrocytes. They induced osteoformation in autologous bone graft. Therapeutic application includes concentrate of bone marrow or MSC expanded by culture, implanted with or without biomaterials. The implantation of MSC cultured on biomaterial has not been yet published in human. The aim of these technics is to reduce the use of bone graft. The first indications for these technics will be pseudarthrosis and bone defect.