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Injectable Biologics: What Is the Evidence?
Eva Kubrova1, Ryan S D'Souza, Christine L Hunt
1From the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (EK, QW, WQ); Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (EK, AJvW); Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (RSD, CLH, WQ); Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (AJvW); and Rehabilitation Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China (QW).
Injectable biologics like platelet-rich plasma and stem cells show promise for musculoskeletal healing through tissue regeneration. This review defines these therapies and assesses their effectiveness in treating various musculoskeletal conditions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Injectable biologics are gaining traction in musculoskeletal medicine.
- These therapeutics are derived from human tissues and include various types.
- Common examples include platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate concentrate, and mesenchymal stem cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define commonly used injectable biologics in musculoskeletal medicine.
- To review the current evidence on the efficacy of these biologics.
- To understand the mechanisms behind biologics' role in tissue healing.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of injectable biologics for musculoskeletal conditions.
- Analysis of current evidence regarding therapeutic efficacy.
- Synthesis of information on biologic mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Biologics encompass diverse human tissue-derived therapeutics.
- Platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate concentrate, and mesenchymal stem cells are frequently used.
- Trophic, paracrine, and immunomodulatory functions are believed to drive tissue healing.
Conclusions:
- Injectable biologics offer potential for musculoskeletal tissue healing and regeneration.
- Further appraisal of evidence is needed to establish definitive efficacy.
- Understanding the mechanisms is key to optimizing therapeutic use.
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