What is Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC)?
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are "adult" or tissue-resident stem cells. These cells are multipotent, meaning they have the ability to differentiate into many different specialized cell types, such as cartilage cells (chondrocytes), bone cells (osteoblasts), and fat cells (adipocytes), occur naturally in the body, and aid in tissue regeneration. Injecting stem cells into joints can reduce pain and improve limb function in dogs and cats with osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease. Injecting stem cells into injured tendons and ligaments also speeds up and facilitates the healing process. Although we are still investigating the underlying mechanisms, pathways, current research shows that the truly immunomodulatory properties of stem cells are remarkable.
What are the Features of MSCs?
Mesenchymal Stem Cell is an adult type stem cell found in connective tissue.
- They have the ability to pass from the tissues in the body to the damaged tissues,
- They have the ability to differentiate into various tissue cells.
- Enzymes (eg. They have the potential to replace enzyme defects in hereditary diseases by secreting lysosomal enzymes.
- Can be isolated from many tissue types and reproduced in vitro.
- Enzymes (eg. They have the potential to replace enzyme defects in hereditary diseases by secreting lysosomal enzymes.
- Have immunomodulatory effects.
- Have immunosuppressive effects.
- Have no serious side effects.
- Can be applied allogeneically, does not cause immune rejection.
- Are suitable for gene therapy due to their ease of gene transfer and durability.