A Scaffold-Free Allogeneic Construct From Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Regenerates an Osteochondral Defect in a Rabbit Model.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Purpose To determine whether an osteochondral defect could be healed histologically by implanting allogeneic 3-dimensionally formed adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in a rabbit model. Methods Thirty Japanese white rabbits (aged 15-17 weeks) were assigned to 1 of 2 groups. An osteochondral defect (diameter, 4.8 mm; depth, 3 mm) was created in the trochlear groove of the knee using a drill. The defects were left empty in the control group and were filled with cylindrical plugs of allogeneic ADSCs extracted from adipose tissue in the experimental group. Macroscopic scoring, histologic scoring, and immunohistologic stainability of type II collagen were evaluated at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. Results The macroscopic scores of the healing tissue in the experimental group were significantly greater than those in the control group at 12 weeks (P = .031). Histologically, safranin O staining was noted at 4 weeks and increased gradually over time in the experimental group. The modified International Cartilage Repair Society histologic score in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the controls at 8 and 12 weeks (14 vs 9 at 8 weeks [P = .008], 18 vs 10 at 12 weeks [P = .007]). The implanted tissue was positive for type II collagen, and stainability increased gradually over time. Conclusions The 3-dimensional scaffold-free allogeneic ADSCs implanted into th

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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