Integration of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell Application in Hydroxyapatite-Based Scaffolds in the Treatment of Vertebral Bone Defect due to Spondylitis Tuberculosis: A Translational Study

This research explores a new way to treat bone damage in the spine caused by tuberculosis, a condition known as spondylitis tuberculosis. Traditional treatments often involve bone grafts, which can lead to complications at the donor site. The study investigates using umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) combined with a hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffold to help the bone heal and regenerate. UC-MSCs are chosen because they can grow quickly and may suppress tumors better than other stem cells. The process involves two surgeries: one to clean and stabilize the spine, and another to implant the UC-MSCs and HA scaffold directly into the bone defect. The patients were monitored for bone formation, quality of life, and any complications.

• 1
  The study found increased bone formation at the defect site over six months, with 75-100% of the bone area showing formation. This suggests the stem cell and scaffold combination supports bone regeneration.
• 2
  Patients reported better quality of life scores in all measured areas after six months, indicating that the treatment helped improve their overall well-being.
• 3
  Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, which indicate bone regeneration activity, initially increased and then decreased over the follow-up period, suggesting active bone remodeling.