Current Evidence for Stem Cell Therapies for OA of the Knee

Description

The presentation, led by Andrew McCaskie, focuses on the challenges and advancements in treating early-stage osteoarthritis through cell therapy and stem cell research. Andrew, a principal investigator at the Wellcome-MRC Stem Cell Institute, begins by emphasizing the significance of evidence-based treatments for osteoarthritis, a condition affecting millions in the UK. He proposes that understanding the disease's various stages can help develop better therapeutic strategies. Key discussion points include the distinction between exogenous and endogenous cell therapies and the clinical utility of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Andrew stresses the importance of rigorous clinical trials and addressed the complexities of MSCs, including their heterogeneous nature and the challenge of ensuring safety and efficacy in treatments. He concludes by advocating for a standardized approach to studying and implementing these therapies, encouraging ongoing research to clarify the mechanisms of action and to develop better treatment options for patients.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221564

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