Creation of cartilage from stem cells moves a step closer

Experts have successfully produced cartilage from embryonic stem cells in groundbreaking research that could one day form the basis of treatment for osteoarthritis.
Experts analysed the ability of embryonic stems cells to become precursor cartilage cells, which were then implanted into cartilage defects in the knee joints of rats.
Four weeks later the cartilage was partially repaired and after 12 weeks a smooth surface, which appeared similar to normal cartilage, was observed. Study of the newly regenerated cartilage showed that cartilage cells from embryonic stem cells were still present and active within the tissue.
But before it can be tried on people with arthritis, more data has to be collected to check that the protocol is effective and that there are no toxic side-effects.
The team involved, however, is excited as the protocol generated new, healthy-looking cartilage and there were no signs of any side-effects such as growing abnormal or disorganised, joint tissue or tumours. Dr Stephen Simpson from Arthritis Research UK comments:
“Current treatments of osteoarthritis are restricted to relieving painful symptoms, with no effective therapies to delay or reverse cartilage degeneration. Joint replacements are successful in older patients but not young people, or athletes who’ve suffered a sports injury.
“Embryonic stem cells offer an alternative source of cartilage cells to adult stem cells, and we’re excited about the immense potential of Professor Kimber’s work and the impact it could have for people with osteoarthritis.”

Subscribe to Arthritis Digest, the UK’s fastest growing arthritis magazine for all the latest arthritis news, reviews and celebrity interviews. You’ll know what your doctor is talking about, what new drugs are in the pipeline and be up to date on helpful products. Hard copy and digital versions both available. Click here for more information.

Image credit: Kim Strømstad