Stem cells derived from osteoarthritic knee mesenchymal tissues: a pilot study.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Regenerative Medicine
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• Musculoskeletal disorders represent a significant clinical challenge.
• Regenerative medicine offers potential therapeutic strategies.
• Reliable and accessible autologous stem cell sources are crucial for successful regenerative therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate mesenchymal tissues obtained during total knee replacement (TKR) as a source of autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
• To assess the quantity and quality of MSCs derived from adipose tissue, synovial tissue, subchondral bone, and osteoarthritic cartilage.

Main Methods:

• Mesenchymal tissues were collected from patients undergoing primary TKR.
• Mononuclear cells were isolated from adipose and synovial tissues, subchondral trabecular bone, and osteoarthritic cartilage.
• Isolated cells were assessed for mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) content, including proliferative capacity, differentiation potential, and surface marker expression.

Main Results:

• MSCs were successfully isolated from all investigated tissue types and donors.
• The obtained MSCs exhibited characteristic stemness markers, proliferative capacity, and differentiation potential.
• A significant number of MSCs were obtainable in the initial passage (P0).

Conclusions:

• Mesenchymal tissues acquired during total joint replacement (TJR) serve as a viable autologous source of MSCs.
• These tissues can be considered for regenerative therapies aimed at treating musculoskeletal disorders.