Subconjunctival bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy as a novel treatment alternative for equine...

Equine immune-mediated keratitis (IMMK) leads to increased corneal opacity and inflammation secondary to an alteration of the local immune system. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) have been shown to modulate the immune system by downregulating inflammation. Four horses with unilateral IMMK poorly responsive to traditional medical treatments underwent novel, autologous subconjunctival BM-MSC therapy. Bone marrow was harvested and processed as previously described for equine orthopedic disease. Horses received autologous subconjunctival BM-MSC injections approximately every 3-4 weeks for 1-5 treatments total. Horses were maintained on their current medical treatment regimen throughout the BM-MSC treatment period. Three horses had a positive response to therapy as demonstrated by an increase in corneal clarity, a decrease in neovascularization and a reduction in surface irregularity. One horse was nonresponsive to therapy. These experimental results demonstrate the safety and potential efficacy of an innovative solution for IMMK.