Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Generation of Induced-pluripotent Stem Cells Using Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes Isolated from Joints of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Published on: October 16, 2016
Dynamic cell fate plasticity and tissue reintegration drive functional adult synovial joint regeneration after
Maria Blumenkrantz1, Felicia Woron1, Ernesto Gagarin1
1Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
Abstract:
Adult mammalian synovial joints have limited regenerative capacity, where injuries heal with mechanically inferior fibrotic tissues. Here we developed a unilateral whole-joint resection model in adult zebrafish to advance our understanding of how to stimulate regrowth of native synovial joint tissues. Using a combination of microCT, histological, live imaging, and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) approaches after complete removal of all joint tissues, we find de novo regeneration of articular cartilage, ligament, and synovium into a functional joint. Clonal lineage tracing and scRNAseq implicate a multipotent, neural crest-derived population in the adult skeleton as a cell source for these regenerating tissues. Together, our findings reveal latent molecular and cellular programs within the adult skeleton that are deployed to regenerate a complex joint with lubricated articular cartilage.
Related Concept Videos
Neurogenesis and Regeneration of Nervous Tissue
Tissue Renewal without Stem Cells
However, failure of such a system...
Development of the Limb Synovial Joints
The mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into chondrocytes that form the hyaline cartilage, and later the cartilaginous model of the bone. This model further transforms into a bone. This process is known as endochondral ossification.
During development, the limbs...
Overview of Regeneration and Repair
Regeneration
All animals have varying degrees of...
Renewal of Intestinal Stem Cells
Stem Cell Therapy for Tissue Regeneration
Types of Stem Cells used in Stem Cell Therapy
The two main cell...

