Research

Cartilage Damage, and the Prospects for Regeneration

Abstract:

Cartilage, once compromised, exhibits a notably restricted capacity for self-renewal. Autologous chondrocyte implantation stands out as an efficacious intervention; however, it is not without its drawbacks. The process of cartilage harvesting can impose significant discomfort on patients, and the ensuing donor-site morbidity has the potential to expedite joint deterioration. An alternative avenue involves the utilization of chondrocytes derived from autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), though this method is not exempt from inducing injury. The umbilical cord, categorized as ecto-embryonic tissue, presents itself as a stellar cell source, offering advantages such as ease of access, plentiful supply, pain-free harvesting procedures, and an absence of ethical controversies. Our methodology involved isolating MSCs from the Wharton’s Jelly of the human umbilical cord (WMSCs). These cells exhibited expression of CD44, CD105, and CD271, but not CD34 and CD45, as determined through flow cytometry analysis. RT-PCR further revealed positive expression not only of CD90, c-kit, Sca1, SH2, and SH3 but also of the chondrocyte markers Sox-9 and Col-2A1. When cultured at high density with the presence of transforming growth factor b1 and dexamethasone, WMSCs demonstrated secretion of cartilage extracellular matrix, culminating in their integration into a cell-based thin membrane. This membrane, when subjected to a rotary cell culture system, transformed into a round, opaque, and shiny cartilage-like tissue without the need for a scaffold – a structure more substantial and denser than what traditional pellet culture yields. A three-week culture period resulted in a substantial increase in glycosaminoglycan and type II collagen content. Given their pre-chondrocyte characteristics, low immunogenicity, and the ease with which they can be acquired in a highly pure state, human WMSCs stand out as promising candidate cells for the fabrication of tissue-engineered cartilage.

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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389172313002636

Homologous Intra-Articular Disc and Joint Repair

Abstract:

Osteoarthritis has manifested itself as a global pandemic, afflicting an estimated 30.8 million adults in the United States alone, with the worldwide figure soaring to 300 million individuals grappling with spine and joint-related pain and disability stemming from this ailment. This disorder stands as the predominant variant of degenerative disc and joint disease, giving rise to pathological pain, damage, and the relentless degradation of intra-articular joints nestled between skeletal bones.

Conclusion:

Wharton’s Jelly represents a distinct type of umbilical cord tissue, playing a crucial role in the donor by providing physical support and acting as a barrier, conduit, or cushion. A compliant FDA registered 361 HCT/P, when harvested from Wharton’s Jelly and administered via injection into a suitable recipient’s intra-articular disc and/or joint(s), demonstrates homologous use. The ultimate goal here is the repair, reconstruction, replacement, and/or supplementation of the recipient’s endogenous cushion, protective barrier, and structural support. These two regenerative medicine interventions are deemed both safe and efficacious, thereby earning their place under the exclusive regulation of section 361 of the PHS Act and 21 CFR part 1271. This classification is justified as they meet all four mandatory criteria outlined in the 21 CFR 1271.10(a) checklist, subsequently exempting them from the FDA’s stringent high-risk regulation and premarket approval prerequisites.

Abstract

Current research elucidates that exosomes play a pivotal role in bolstering the proliferation and migration of dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes, concurrently augmenting the angiogenesis process. This culminates in a robust regenerative impact on skin injuries, applicable to both standard and diabetic conditions. Opting for exosomes as opposed to stem cells in regenerative therapies brings forth a spectrum of benefits. These include their potential as vehicles for drug and gene delivery, coupled with their demonstrated stability and storage constancy within the body. Additionally, the prospect of establishing a perpetual stem cell source through immortalization becomes feasible, alongside the standardization of nanovesicles isolation protocols. This paves the way for the creation of readily available “off the shelf” medical solutions, particularly crucial for the immediate treatment of chronic wounds and burns. In light of these significant advantages, MSC-derived exosomes emerge as a groundbreaking and efficacious strategy in wound healing therapy, overcoming the limitations inherently associated with cellular therapy.

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The Pivotal Role of Wharton’s Jelly and MSCs from Human Umbilical Cord

Abstract:

The prognosis for extensive and profound skin injuries remains suboptimal, characterized by substantial scar formation, loss of normal function, and the absence of skin appendages. In the contemporary field of medicine, numerous innovative therapies have surfaced to address skin repair and regeneration, with stem cell-based strategies standing out as particularly promising. Human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) have gained recognition as a unique, readily accessible, and ethically uncontroversial source of regenerative capabilities. This study was embarked upon to unveil a novel approach for the treatment of skin wounds. We employed a blend of hUC-MSCs, Wharton’s jelly, and skin microparticles, transplanting this mixture onto 10-mm diameter full-thickness middorsal excisional skin wounds in mice. A mere 7 days post-transplantation, the tissue sections were meticulously examined for reconstruction analysis and histological evaluation. The results were extraordinary, showcasing significant regeneration of new skin and its appendages. Clearly visible were the newly formed layers of the epidermis, sebaceous glands, hair follicles, and sweat glands. This groundbreaking strategy holds immense promise, harboring the potential to substantially enhance the quality of repair and regeneration in skin injuries.

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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/…

A Comprehensive Insight into Exosomes

Abstract

Exosomes are a class of vesicles that originate from multivesicular bodies (MVBs), proceeding to fuse with the plasma membrane and subsequently being released into the extracellular space. A plethora of research underscores the pivotal role of exosomes in facilitating crucial cell-to-cell communication, with exosomes derived from specific cell types and under certain conditions manifesting a multitude of functions. These functions notably include engendering positive regenerative effects across various tissues. The consensus within the scientific community is that the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells is largely attributable to their paracrine factors. Therefore, the capability to leverage these paracrine effects, derived from stem and progenitor cells, without impinging upon these living, replicating, and potentially pluripotent cell populations, stands as a substantial safety and complexity advantage. Mounting evidence posits that exosomes might constitute the principal components of these paracrine factors. Consequently, a profound understanding of the role exosomes play across various stem cell subtypes is of paramount importance. This review meticulously explores the functions of exosomes emanating from diverse stem cell types, whilst placing a strong emphasis on their therapeutic potentials. The ultimate aim is to furnish an innovative and alternative pathway for developing efficacious strategies to address and potentially cure a myriad of diseases.

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https://www.juvexo.com/storage…

An Insightful Perspective

Abstract

The global health landscape is currently navigating the tumultuous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exerted an immense strain on healthcare systems and economies worldwide. Clinical data vividly illustrate the deleterious impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly its propensity to elicit excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. This inflammatory cascade has the potential to culminate in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and extensive systemic organ damage. Amidst these challenges, a definitive therapeutic solution for COVID-19 and its associated complications remains elusive. Although the prospect of a safe and efficacious vaccine lingers on the horizon, the immediacy of the situation necessitates a relentless pursuit of alternative treatments.

In this context, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising option, attributed to their pronounced immunomodulatory effects coupled with their capacity for tissue repair and regeneration. Empirical studies corroborate the compassionate use of MSCs, highlighting their ability to mitigate symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, alleviate fluid buildup in the lungs, and foster the regenerative process in alveolar damage, all while maintaining a profile of safety and efficacy.

Given the various autologous sources available for MSCs retrieval, each presenting its unique set of limitations, allogenic umbilical cord (UC) and/or UC-derived Wharton’s Jelly (WJ) have garnered attention as potentially optimal sources for MSC harvest. UC stands out due to its ready availability, ease of acquisition, and its rich endowment in immunomodulatory and regenerative factors, positioning it as a promising candidate in the quest for COVID-19 treatment and symptomatic relief.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/…