Osteoarthritis and Stem Cell Treatments

Auragens’ Class in Session

As the question about treatments using hu-MSC Stem Cells for treatment of Osteoarthritis has been asked multiple times in the last few days we felt it was a good time to answer for all who may be curious or in need.

Let us look at the potential reasons why Auragens may be a good choice for the treatment in question. It is straight forward as many of the causes are directly addressed by the effects of hu-MSC stem cell administration:

• Anti-inflammatory Effects: MSCs can modulate the immune response, reducing inflammation in the affected joints. This is crucial because inflammation is a major contributor to the pain and progression of osteoarthritis.

• Tissue Regeneration: MSCs have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including chondrocytes, the cells that produce cartilage. This potential allows MSCs to contribute to the repair and regeneration of damaged cartilage in osteoarthritic joints.

• Paracrine Signaling: MSCs secrete various bioactive molecules, such as cytokines and growth factors, which promote tissue repair, inhibit apoptosis (cell death), and stimulate the proliferation of endogenous cells that can aid in joint repair.

• Reduction of Cartilage Degradation: By producing factors that inhibit catabolic enzymes (enzymes that break down cartilage), MSCs help preserve the existing cartilage in osteoarthritic joints.

• Pain Relief: Through their anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects, MSCs can reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis. This can improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

• Immunomodulation: MSCs can modulate the immune system in a way that helps to control the chronic inflammatory processes that contribute to the progression of osteoarthritis.

• Enhancement of Joint Function: The combined effects of reduced inflammation, cartilage preservation, and regeneration can lead to improved joint function, increased mobility, and overall better outcomes for patients with osteoarthritis

To provide some additional context and an arm’s length from Auragens we have also turned to literature in the field. Research has shown that mesenchymal stem cells offer promising and effective treatments for osteoarthritis, a severe form of joint degeneration. One study found that MSCs can help reduce cartilage damage and inflammation in the joints by secreting beneficial compounds and modulating the immune system (Lv et al., 2023). Another study reported that injecting MSCs into the joints of osteoarthritis patients led to less pain and improved joint function, with noticeable increases in cartilage volume (Chen & Chang, 2020). Researchers also discovered that the environment of the joint, the source of the MSCs, and other factors are crucial for the successful treatment of osteoarthritis with these stem cells (Jiang & Zuo, 2023). Additionally, MSCs were found to influence bone-resorbing cells, which could help in reducing joint damage further (Ibáñez et al., 2022).

What we see firsthand follows suit. In our mission to create and share the evidence, Auragens has seen anecdotal, but significant, success with our patients as it relates to relief and improvement with our patients dealing with Osteoarthritis.