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Updated: May 22, 2026

Isolation and Cellular Phenotyping of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Synovial Fluid and Bone Marrow of Minipigs
Published on: July 2, 2016
Pigmented villonodular synovitis therapy with MSCF-1 inhibitors
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA. htemple@med.miami.edu
Purpose Of Review:
Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath and pigmented villonodular synovitis are synovial-based diseases that are generally treated by surgery. For aggressive and recurrent tumors, treatment alternatives are needed. This review explores a targeted therapeutic strategy.
Recent Findings:
Imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, blocks expression of colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) by a small subpopulation of tumor cells that recruit CSF1-bearing nonneoplastic cells. Limited clinical data support the efficacy and side effect profile of imatinib in stabilizing disease in most patients.
Summary:
Imatinib along with other such inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies to CSF1R are putative drugs that may play an important role in the treatment of these tumors.
Insights
Imatinib shows promise for treating giant cell tumors and pigmented villonodular synovitis. This targeted therapy may stabilize aggressive or recurrent synovial-based tumors, offering a new treatment avenue.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Orthopedics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath (GCT-TS) and pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) are neoplastic conditions originating from the synovium.
- Current standard treatment involves surgical excision, but recurrence and aggressive disease necessitate alternative therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of targeted therapy for GCT-TS and PVNS.
- To explore imatinib as a treatment option for aggressive and recurrent cases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on targeted therapies for GCT-TS and PVNS.
- Analysis of existing clinical data on imatinib efficacy and safety.
Main Results:
- Imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, targets colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) production by tumor cells.
- Clinical data suggest imatinib can stabilize disease in most patients with manageable side effects.
- A subpopulation of tumor cells recruits nonneoplastic cells expressing CSF1.
Conclusions:
- Imatinib represents a promising targeted therapy for GCT-TS and PVNS.
- Other CSF1R inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies may also play a significant role in managing these tumors.
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