02868-A: Characterization of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Properties of Canine Culture-expanded Articular Chondrocytes
Grant Status: Closed
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a debilitating, incurable disease that is prevalent in dogs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are believed to be strong candidates for the treatment of osteoarthritis based on their robust propensity for immunomodulation. To date, MSCs administered to diseased canine joints via intra-articular (IA) injection has demonstrated limited and sometimes temporary symptom-modifying effects. Therefore, there is a critical need to improve upon the effectiveness of therapies designed around IA injection of MSCs. This proposal seeks to do so through the innovative approach of using culture-expanded chondrocytes instead of MSCs from conventional tissues such as fat or bone marrow. Existing publications and preliminary data from the investigator’s lab demonstrate that adult chondrocytes adopt MSC properties with isolation and expansion and possess an atypical ability to survive in suspension. The ability of chondrocytes to thrive in suspension is expected to overcome a major limitation of MSCs, which have been shown to persist in the joint for only a short period of time after IA injection. If successful, this study will be a critical step in improving the effectiveness of cell therapies for osteoarthritis in dogs.
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