Scientists have succeeded in producing cartilage formed from
embryonic stem cells that could in future be used to treat the painful
joint condition osteoarthritis.
In research funded by Arthritis Research UK, Professor Sue Kimber
and her team in the Faculty of Life Sciences at The University of
Manchester has developed a protocol under strict laboratory conditions
to grow and transform embryonic stem cells into cartilage cells (also
known as chondrocytes). Professor Kimber said: "This work represents an important step
forward in treating cartilage damage by using embryonic stem cells to
form new tissue, although it's still in its early experimental stages."
During the study, the team analyzed the ability of embryonic stems
cells to become precursor cartilage cells. They were then implanted into
cartilage defects in the knee joints of rats.
After four weeks cartilage was partially repaired and following 12
weeks a smooth surface, which appeared similar to normal cartilage, was
observed. Further study of this newly regenerated cartilage showed that
cartilage cells from embryonic stem cells were still present and active
within the tissue.
Developing and testing this protocol in rats is the first step in
generating the information needed to run a study in people with
arthritis. Before this will be possible more data will need to be
collected to check that this protocol is effective and that there are no
toxic side-effects.
No comments:
Post a Comment