Intraarticularly-Injected Mesenchymal Stem Cells Stimulate Anti-Inﬂammatory Molecules and Inhibit Pain Related Protein and Chondrolytic Enzymes in a Monoiodoacetate-Induced Rat Arthritis Model

International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018 · DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010203 · Published: January 9, 2018

Genetics Orthopedics Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to treat early-stage osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and protecting cartilage. The researchers induced arthritis in rat shoulders using monoiodoacetate (MIA) and then injected MSCs into the joint to observe the effects. The study found that MSCs reduced pain signaling in the spinal cord and increased the production of a protective molecule in the cartilage.

Study Duration

2 weeks

Participants

Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 8 per group)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Intraarticular injection of MSCs decreased the expression of CGRP in the spinal dorsal horn, indicating a suppression of central sensitization of pain.
2
MSC administration significantly inhibited the expression of ADAMTS 5 in joint cartilage, suggesting a protective effect against cartilage injury.
3
A significant increase in the expression of TSG-6, an anti-inflammatory and cartilage protective factor, was observed in the cartilage tissue following MSC administration.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effects of intraarticular administration of MSCs in a rat model of shoulder arthritis induced by MIA. The findings indicate that MSCs can inhibit central sensitization of pain, increase the expression of the anti-inflammatory and cartilage protective factor TSG-6, and inhibit the expression of the cartilage injury factor ADAMTS5. The authors conclude that intraarticular MSC administration may be a promising therapeutic option for preserving cartilage in early arthropathy.

Practical Implications

Pain Management

Intraarticular MSC injections may offer a less invasive approach to managing pain associated with early-stage arthritis by reducing central sensitization.

Cartilage Protection

MSCs can potentially protect joint cartilage from further degradation by inhibiting the expression of cartilage injury factors and promoting anti-inflammatory responses.

Early Intervention

The study suggests that MSC therapy may be most effective when administered in the early stages of arthritis, before significant cartilage damage has occurred.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on a rat model, and the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
2
The period of MSC administration was set at one week after MIA administration once intraarticular inﬂammation had already occurred.
3
The study focused on early-stage arthritis, and the effectiveness of MSCs in more advanced stages remains unclear.

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