Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026
Applying a Three-dimensional Uniaxial Mechanical Stimulation Bioreactor System to Induce Tenogenic Differentiation of Tendon-Derived Stem Cells
Published on: August 1, 2020
Updates in biological therapies for knee injuries: tendons
Marco Kawamura Demange1, Adriano Marques de Almeida, Scott A Rodeo
1Knee Surgery Division, Hospital das Clínicas, Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo - Brazil, São Paulo, Brazil, demange@usp.br.
Abstract:
Tendons are subjected to tendinopathies caused by inflammation, degeneration, and weakening of the tendon, due to overuse and trauma, which may eventually lead to tendon rupture. Recently, there has been increasing interest in biological approaches to augment tissue healing. Tendon healing occurs through a dynamic process with inflammation, cellular proliferation, and tissue remodeling. In this review article, we discuss the more frequently proposed biological therapies for tendon injuries as platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells, extracorporeal shockwave, and scaffolds.
Insights
This review explores biological therapies for tendon injuries, including platelet-rich plasma and stem cells, to enhance healing and prevent rupture. These treatments aim to augment the natural tendon repair process.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Tendon injuries, including tendinopathies and rupture, result from overuse and trauma, leading to inflammation and degeneration.
- Current treatments often fall short, driving interest in biological approaches for enhanced tendon healing.
- Tendon repair involves complex biological processes: inflammation, cellular proliferation, and tissue remodeling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss frequently proposed biological therapies for tendon injuries.
- To highlight advancements in regenerative medicine for augmenting tendon healing.
- To provide an overview of current biological treatment options for tendon disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biological therapies for tendon injuries.
- Discussion of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) efficacy.
- Analysis of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) applications in tendon repair.
- Evaluation of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) mechanisms.
- Review of scaffold-based regenerative strategies.
Main Results:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a widely studied biological therapy for tendon healing.
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show promise in promoting tendon regeneration and reducing inflammation.
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) may stimulate cellular activity and improve tendon structure.
- Scaffolds offer structural support and can deliver therapeutic agents to the injury site.
Conclusions:
- Biological therapies offer promising alternatives for treating tendon injuries.
- Platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells, ESWT, and scaffolds represent key areas of research.
- Further investigation is needed to optimize these therapies for clinical application in tendon repair.
