Human birth tissue products for pathological pain: mechanisms, evidence, and translational outlook

Pain is a hallmark of inflammation and tissue injury, particularly following major surgical procedures. Despite its prevalence and clinical impact, pathological pain, defined as persistent pain that impairs function, remains a major unmet medical need. Human birth tissue, including the amniotic membrane and umbilical cord, has long been recognized for its regenerative properties and its ability to support wound healing. Recent studies have identified heavy chain 1 (HC)-hyaluronic acid (HA)/pentraxin 3 (HC-HA/PTX3) as a key matrix component within these tissues. This complex exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring activities and helps maintain stem cell quiescence.

Emerging evidence, including our own findings, indicates that human birth tissue-derived products may also modulate pain responses in certain settings, such as post-surgical pain, potentially through mechanisms involving neuronal inhibition and regenerative healing. We summarize the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which human birth tissue-derived products and HC-HA/PTX3 may exert anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. We then highlight preclinical and clinical studies evaluating their potential roles in wound healing and pathological pain. Finally, we discuss translational opportunities, current challenges, and future directions for advancing these biologics within the emerging field of regenerative pain medicine.

This review outlines a framework for potential regenerative pain management using birth tissue-derived products, which may serve as a foundation for developing new therapies for certain pathological pain conditions.