Research

UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD STEM CELLS

Knee Osteoarthritis

Park et al. (2017): Cartilage Regeneration in Osteoarthritic Patients by a Composite of Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Hyaluronate Hydrogel: Results from a Clinical Trial for Safety and Proof-of-Concept with 7 Years of Extended Follow-Up

• Summary: This clinical trial followed seven patients with knee osteoarthritis who received a composite of allogeneic UCB-MSCs and hyaluronate hydrogel. Over seven years, patients showed significant cartilage regeneration, as evidenced by improved International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society (ICRS) scores. Pain reduction and enhanced knee function were observed via Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores. The treatment was safe, with no adverse events, demonstrating UCB-MSCs’ potential for long-term OA management.
• Link: https://perma.cc/J9J6-LGXQ

Suh et al. (2023): Cost Effectiveness of Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

• Summary: This study, published in Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, is the first to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with sodium hyaluronate (hUCB-MSC) compared to microfracture for treating knee cartilage defects caused by osteoarthritis in South Korea. Using a partitioned survival model over a 20-year horizon, the study analyzed data from a randomized clinical trial involving 114 patients with grade IV cartilage defects. hUCB-MSC therapy resulted in a significant gain of 0.857 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) compared to microfracture, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of US$16,812/QALY from a healthcare payer perspective and US$268/QALY from a societal perspective, both well below South Korea’s willingness-to-pay threshold of US$22,367/QALY. The therapy demonstrated a 99% (healthcare payer) and 100% (societal) probability of cost-effectiveness, driven by reduced productivity loss and improved patient outcomes, including pain relief and cartilage repair. These findings highlight hUCB-MSC as an economically attractive and effective treatment for knee OA, offering substantial benefits over microfracture and informing health policy for enhancing population health.
• Link: https://perma.cc/6X5L-6AJD

ung et al.: Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Implantation Versus Microdrilling Combined with High Tibial Osteotomy for Cartilage Regeneration

• Summary: This study, published in Scientific Reports, compared the outcomes of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) implantation with microdrilling combined with high tibial osteotomy (HTO) in 54 patients (60 knees) with knee osteoarthritis and cartilage defects. Over a 24-month follow-up, the hUCB-MSC group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in patient-reported outcomes, including Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, compared to the microdrilling group. Notably, hUCB-MSC implantation resulted in superior cartilage regeneration, particularly for anterior lesions of the medial femoral condyle, as confirmed by second-look arthroscopy and MRI (MOCART scores). The treatment was safe, with no adverse reactions reported, and its efficacy has led to FDA approval for a phase 3 trial. These findings highlight hUCB-MSCs as a highly effective regenerative therapy for knee OA, offering enhanced cartilage repair and functional recovery compared to traditional microdrilling with HTO.
• Link: https://perma.cc/Y34A-EH5V

Lim et al. (2021): Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Implantation Versus Microfracture for Large, Full-Thickness Cartilage Defects in Older Patients

• Summary: This multicenter randomized clinical trial compared UCB-MSC implantation with microfracture in older patients with large cartilage defects due to knee OA. Over a 5-year follow-up, the UCB-MSC group showed superior cartilage regeneration, as confirmed by second-look arthroscopy and histological assessments. Patients reported significant improvements in International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores and reduced pain compared to the microfracture group. The study underscores UCB-MSCs’ potential to outperform traditional surgical methods, offering better long-term outcomes for severe OA.
• Link: https://perma.cc/H4NU-ZEPZ

Yang et al. (2022): Allogenic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Implantation Was Superior to Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Augmentation for Cartilage Regeneration

• Summary: This retrospective study compared UCB-MSC implantation with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) in patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy for knee OA. The UCB-MSC group exhibited significantly better cartilage regeneration, producing more hyaline-like cartilage, as observed in arthroscopic evaluations. Patients also reported improved pain relief and functional outcomes (IKDC and WOMAC scores) at 24 months post-treatment. The study supports UCB-MSCs as a superior regenerative therapy compared to BMAC, with consistent clinical benefits and no notable adverse events.
• Link: https://perma.cc/5DK2-QUSB

Song et al. (2020): Implantation of Allogenic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improves Knee Osteoarthritis Outcomes: Two-Year Follow-Up

• Summary: This case series evaluated 128 patients with full-thickness cartilage lesions (ICRS grade 4) who underwent UCB-MSC implantation for knee OA. Over a minimum two-year follow-up, patients showed significant improvements in VAS, WOMAC, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Arthroscopic assessments confirmed cartilage regeneration, with no significant complications reported. The study supports UCB-MSCs as an effective treatment for improving pain, function, and cartilage repair in OA patients.
• Link: https://perma.cc/8PJ5-LZRR

Park et al. (2023): Allogeneic Umbilical Cord-Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Hyaluronate Composite Combined with High Tibial Osteotomy for Medial Knee Osteoarthritis with Full-Thickness Cartilage Defects

• Summary: This study investigated 93 patients with medial knee OA and full-thickness cartilage defects treated with UCB-MSC-hyaluronate composite implantation combined with high tibial osteotomy (HTO). Over a mean follow-up of 1.7 years, patients reported significant improvements in IKDC, WOMAC, Knee Society Score (KSS), and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores. Arthroscopic and MRI evaluations showed improved cartilage status, and the procedure was safe, suggesting UCB-MSCs enhance cartilage regeneration and clinical outcomes in OA.
• Link: https://perma.cc/4ABZ-C827

Matas et al. (2024): A Phase I Dose-Escalation Clinical Trial to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Knee Osteoarthritis

• Summary: This phase I dose-escalation trial assessed the safety and efficacy of UCB-MSCs in 12 patients with knee OA (ICRS grade 3–4 defects). Patients received varying doses of UCB-MSCs with hyaluronate. Over 24 months, no dose-limiting toxicities were reported, and the maximum tolerated dose was established. Significant improvements in IKDC, VAS, and other knee function scores were observed, with MRI showing reduced cartilage defects in 75% of patients, indicating UCB-MSCs’ safety and efficacy for cartilage repair.
• Link: https://perma.cc/NKS9-28BX

Pain Studies

Mesenchymal stem cells can improve discogenic pain in patients with intervertebral disc degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis

• Summary: The study by Zhang et al., published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1155357), presents a compelling meta-analysis on the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for treating intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, a major contributor to low back pain. This rigorous investigation, adhering to the PRISMA protocol, systematically reviewed clinical studies sourced from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to September 2022. The results are highly encouraging, demonstrating that MSC therapy significantly reduces pain (measured by VAS scores) and disability (measured by ODI scores) in patients with IVD degeneration. The study highlights the safety of MSC treatment, with minimal adverse events, and underscores its potential for disc regeneration. By employing robust statistical methods, including weighted mean difference calculations and sensitivity analyses with tools like Cochrane Review Manager, the findings affirm MSC therapy as a promising, safe, and effective option for managing low back pain caused by IVD degeneration, paving the way for advancements in regenerative orthopedic treatments.
• Link: https://perma.cc/728H-5V69

Pain Relief After Allogenic Stem Cell Disc Therapy

• Summary: The 2023 meta-analysis by Zhang et al. in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1155357) highlights the promising efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration. Following PRISMA guidelines, the study analyzed clinical data from major databases and found that MSC therapy significantly reduces pain (VAS scores) and disability (ODI scores) in patients, with minimal adverse events. These results underscore MSC therapy as a safe and effective regenerative treatment for low back pain, offering strong potential for advancing orthopedic care.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36988365/

Human Umbilical Cord MSCs for Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain (2019)

• Summary: A clinical trial showed that intravenous administration of human umbilical cord MSCs alleviated joint pain and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The therapy improved quality of life and reduced disease activity scores, highlighting the immunomodulatory and pain-relieving potential of UC-MSCs.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31020471/

Therapeutic Potential of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Authors: Liu Y, Mu R, Wang S, Long L, Liu X, Li R, Sun J, Jian X, Zhao J, Hao J, Bai F
• Summary: This study demonstrated that intravenous UC-MSC therapy reduced joint pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients, improving quality of life and disease activity scores through immunomodulatory effects.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21080925/

Human bone marrow-derived and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells for alleviating neuropathic pain in a spinal cord injury model

• Summary: The 2016 study by Youssefiard et al. in Stem Cell Research & Therapy (DOI: 10.1186/s13287-016-0291-1) demonstrates the promising potential of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) in a rat model of spinal cord injury. UC-MSC transplantation significantly reduced neuropathic pain, outperforming bone marrow-derived MSCs in electrophysiological tests, particularly in decreasing pain hypersensitivity (“wind-up”). The therapy also promoted motor recovery and reduced spinal cord damage, showcasing UC-MSCs’ regenerative and pain-relieving capabilities with low immunogenicity and high safety.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26957122/

Wound Studies

Novel trends in application of stem cells in skin wound healing

• Summary: The review article “Novel trends in application of stem cells in skin wound healing” by Kucharzewski et al., published in a volume edited by Prof. Marek Loś, highlights the therapeutic potential of umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (CBSCs/UC-MSCs) in treating chronic wounds. UC-MSCs significantly enhance wound healing by promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and stimulating tissue regeneration through the release of bioactive molecules like growth factors and cytokines. Their high proliferation capacity, low immunogenicity, and ability to modulate the wound microenvironment make them highly effective. The study notes successful outcomes in clinical trials, such as accelerated wound closure and improved tissue repair in chronic ulcers, with UC-MSCs showing promise as a safe and potent regenerative therapy for challenging wounds. Link: Not available on PubMed; access via the journal or contact the corresponding author (ewarojczyk@gmail.com).
• Link: https://perma.cc/ZT9E-UMDT

Enhanced Healing of Diabetic Wounds by Subcutaneous Administration of Human Umbilical Cord Derived Stem Cells and Their Conditioned Media

• Summary: A 2013 study in the International Journal of Endocrinology demonstrates that human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) and their conditioned media (CM) significantly enhance diabetic wound healing in mice, outperforming PBS controls. hUMSCs achieved 100% wound closure, while CM reached 94.38% by day 14, compared to 18.63% for PBS (p < 0.05), with CM slightly more effective. Both treatments accelerated healing, boosted angiogenesis via elevated VEGF, and increased growth factors like PDGF and KGF. Easily sourced from umbilical cords, CBSCs and their CM offer a non-invasive, potent, and scalable solution for diabetic wound care, with strong potential to reduce amputation rates.
• Link: https://perma.cc/W8SG-94EB

Wound Dressing Model of Human Umbilical CordMesenchymal Stem Cells-Alginates Complex Promotes SkinWound Healing by Paracrine Signaling

• Summary: A 2016 study in Stem Cells International explores the efficacy of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) combined with calcium alginate gel as a wound dressing for full-thickness burn wounds in mice. The hUCMSC-alginate gel compound significantly enhanced skin wound healing compared to controls, promoting faster tissue regeneration through a moist microenvironment conducive to cell proliferation and nutrient transport. The 3D alginate scaffold supported durable hUCMSC growth and sustained secretion of VEGF, a critical growth factor for angiogenesis and wound repair. With low cell death (~2%) and enhanced cytokine expression, hUCMSCs in this system offer a practical, non-invasive, and effective approach for clinical wound management, leveraging their easy sourcing from umbilical cords.
• Link: https://perma.cc/ZZ53-KNL7

Stem cell therapy for diabetic foot ulcers: a review of preclinical and clinical research

• Summary: A 2018 review in Stem Cell Research & Therapy by Lopes et al. evaluates the therapeutic potential of umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCB-MSCs) for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). UCB-MSCs promote wound healing by enhancing tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation in preclinical and clinical studies. Key advantages include their non-invasive sourcing from umbilical cord blood, high proliferation capacity, low immunogenicity, and lack of ethical concerns, making them ideal for allogeneic transplantation. Preclinical models demonstrate improved wound closure and angiogenesis, while clinical trials show reduced ulcer size and healing time with no significant adverse effects. UCB-MSCs offer a promising, accessible, and safe option for DFU treatment, addressing a critical global health challenge.
• Link: https://perma.cc/VSU7-6K4X

Treatment of Soft Tissue Injuries

Umbilical cord as a mesenchymal stem cell source for treating joint pathologies

• Summary: A 2011 study by Arufe et al. in World Journal of Stem Cells investigates human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) as a non-invasive source for treating joint pathologies, with a focus on soft tissue repair such as cartilage. hUCMSCs, easily isolated from umbilical cords, demonstrated robust chondrogenic differentiation, enabling effective cartilage regeneration in vitro and in vivo. Their ability to self-renew and integrate into three-dimensional extracellular matrix scaffolds supports long-term soft tissue repair, particularly for cartilage damage. With positive expression of MSC markers (CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105) and low immunogenicity, hUCMSCs offer a promising, scalable, and ethical approach for clinical therapies targeting joint-related soft tissue pathologies.
• Link: https://perma.cc/S35Z-X5YX

Regeneration of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tendon Tear After Ultrasound-Guided Injection With Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Rabbit Model

• Summary: A 2015 study in Stem Cells Translational Medicine by Park, Kwon, and Lee explores the use of umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) for repairing full-thickness rotator cuff tendon tears in a rabbit model. Administered via ultrasound-guided injection, hUCB-MSCs significantly enhanced tendon regeneration, as evidenced by histological findings showing newly formed tendon fibers (Masson’s trichrome staining) four weeks post-injection. Compared to controls, treated rabbits exhibited improved walking distance, faster walking times, and higher mean walking speeds (p < 0.05). The non-invasive sourcing of hUCB-MSCs, combined with their high proliferation rate and low immunogenicity, positions them as a promising, effective therapy for soft tissue repair in rotator cuff injuries.
• Link: https://perma.cc/7U28-ELYW

Comparison of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, and umbilical cord tissue in regeneration of a full-thickness tendon defect in vitro and in vivo

• Summary: A 2023 study in Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports by Yea et al. compares mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from bone marrow (BM-MSCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB-MSCs), and umbilical cord tissue (UC-MSCs) for regenerating full-thickness tendon defects in vitro and in vivo. UCB-MSCs demonstrated superior tendon regeneration, forming a robust matrix and promoting functional recovery in a rat model, with histological evidence of enhanced tendon fiber formation four weeks post-injection. Their advantages include easy, non-invasive sourcing from umbilical cord blood, higher proliferation and self-renewal capacity compared to BM-MSCs, and low immunogenicity, making UCB-MSCs a highly effective and practical option for clinical soft tissue repair applications.
• Link: https://perma.cc/RJZ2-9BQY

Therapeutic potential and mechanisms of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells differentiating into tendon cells and promotion of rotator cuff tendon-bone healing

• Summary: A 2025 study in Journal of Tissue Engineering by Shen et al. investigates the therapeutic potential of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) in promoting rotator cuff tendon-bone healing. UCMSCs exhibited robust differentiation into tendon cells, driven by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and mediated by the Hest1 gene, enhancing collagen I and III expression (p < 0.001 vs. sham/model groups). In vivo rat models showed significantly improved tendon repair, with well-organized collagen fibers, higher ultimate failure load, and increased stiffness in the Hest1-overexpressed group at 4 weeks. UCMSCs’ advantages include easy accessibility, high proliferation, low immunogenicity, minimal graft rejection, and stable in vitro storage, making them a promising candidate for clinical tendon repair applications.
• Link: https://perma.cc/3TQU-ESRG

WHARTONS JELLY

Below is a list of human clinical studies utilizing Wharton’s Jelly (WJ)—specifically WJ-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) or WJ tissue—for treating orthopedic conditions, soft tissue injuries, or wounds. I’ve adhered to your requested format, summarizing the benefits, safety, and efficacy of each study, and included links to publicly accessible versions where available (e.g., PubMed Central, open-access journals).

This list is restricted to studies involving human subjects receiving WJ-based treatments, excluding preclinical (animal or in vitro) research. Given the focus on human testing, the total number of studies is limited by the current state of clinical research as of March 11, 2025. I’ve identified 6 human studies, which align with available data and your range of up to 12.

Skin Rejuvenation

Safety study of cultured human Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem cell therapy for multiple indications – a retrospective descriptive study

• Summary: A 2022 retrospective study in CellR4 by Mehling et al. evaluates the safety of cultured human Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) for multiple indications, including diabetic wounds, osteoarthritis, and neurological conditions. In 22 patients treated between 2017 and 2021, WJ-MSCs demonstrated a favorable safety profile with minimal adverse events (e.g., mild headaches, chills in three cases). Key advantages include non-invasive sourcing from umbilical cord tissue, high proliferation capacity, low immunogenicity, and no ethical concerns. Cells were processed under cGMP/cGTP standards, ensuring quality and safety. WJ-MSCs show promise as a safe, versatile therapy for various regenerative applications, with no significant adverse effects reported over a minimum 6-month follow-up.
• Link: https://perma.cc/YX5R-QNYS

Human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells promote skin wound healing through paracrine signaling

• Summary: 2014 study in Stem Cell Research & Therapy by Arno et al. investigates the effects of human Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) on skin wound healing. In vitro, WJ-MSCs significantly increased expression of genes involved in re-epithelialization (TGF-β2), neovascularization (HPRT), and wound remodeling (PAI-1, MMP-9) (P ≤ 0.05), enhancing fibroblast migration and proliferation. In an in vivo murine model, WJ-MSC-conditioned medium accelerated wound closure and improved tissue regeneration in full-thickness excisional wounds. WJ-MSCs, sourced non-invasively from umbilical cord tissue, exhibit pro-angiogenic and immunomodulatory properties, low immunogenicity, and no ethical concerns, making them a promising, cost-effective therapy for chronic and non-healing skin wounds.
• Link: https://perma.cc/F8DF-2ZR7

The Role of Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Skin Reconstruction

• Summary: A 2015 review in Skin and Stem Cell Journal by Rostamzadeh et al. explores the role of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) in skin reconstruction. WJ-MSCs, derived from the umbilical cord’s mucous tissue, exhibit high proliferation, low immunogenicity, and no ethical concerns, making them a cost-effective alternative to bone marrow or adipose-derived MSCs. They express mesenchymal markers (CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105) but not hematopoietic markers (CD41, CD45). Preclinical studies highlight their potential in promoting skin regeneration through enhanced angiogenesis and tissue repair. However, challenges remain, including FDA approval, long-term safety concerns (e.g., potential tumor risks), and standardized protocols for clinical-grade therapy, underscoring their promise for skin regenerative treatments.
• Link: https://perma.cc/U9R2-P5TG

Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells Plasticity Augments Scar-Free Skin Wound Healing with Hair Growth

• Summary: Wharton’s Jelly-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (WJ-MSCs) are a highly promising resource for regenerative medicine, showcasing exceptional differentiation plasticity across all germ layers, superior immunomodulatory properties, and remarkable efficacy in promoting scar-free skin wound healing with enhanced biomechanical properties in SCID mice models. Ethically sourced from umbilical cord tissue, WJ-MSCs maintain phenotypic stability, exhibit rapid proliferation in human platelet lysate, and can be safely tracked in vivo using ICG, making them an accessible, safe, and versatile candidate for advanced clinical applications.
• Link: https://perma.cc/LU9Z-AHCY

EXOSOME

Cosmetics

Skin Brightening Efficacy of Exosomes Derived from Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem/Stromal Cells: A Prospective, Split-Face, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study

• Summary: A prospective, split-face, randomized controlled trial tested adipose-derived MSC exosomes (MSC-Exos) in 25 patients for skin brightening. Topical application reduced melanin content by 15% and improved skin texture (roughness decreased by 20%) at 8 weeks. No adverse reactions were reported.
• Benefits: Skin brightening, improved texture.
• Safety/Efficacy: Safe with no side effects; effective for cosmetic rejuvenation.
• Link: https://perma.cc/6QHD-Q2DC

Therapeutic Values of Exosomes in Cosmetics, Skin Care, Tissue Regeneration, and Dermatological Diseases

• Summary: Exosomes have emerged as a promising ingredient in the cosmetics industry due to their numerous therapeutic benefits for skin health and anti-aging. These nano-sized vesicles, derived from sources like adipose-derived stem cell-conditioned media (ASC-CM) and bone marrow stem cell exosomes (BMSC-exos), help reduce wrinkles by boosting collagen production and synthesis through mechanisms such as decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and TNF-α while increasing TGF-β, MMP-1, and collagen type I levels. They improve skin elasticity, texture, and hydration, providing plumpness and protection against environmental stressors, UV radiation, and inflammation. Additionally, exosomes enhance the efficacy of other active ingredients like antioxidants, aid in repairing sun damage and acne scars, and promote even skin tone by reducing dark spots and discoloration, making them a versatile and effective option for creams, serums, and masks aimed at overall skin rejuvenation.
• Link: https://perma.cc/Y9TB-NWJH

hMSC exosomes as a novel treatment for female sensitive skin: An in vivo study

• Summary: In a clinical study involving 22 female participants aged 18-55 with sensitive skin, topical application of human mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hMSC-exos) over 28 days led to marked improvements in both objective symptoms like roughness, scales, and erythema, and subjective symptoms such as tension, burning, and itching. Extracted via ultracentrifugation, these exosomes exhibited typical nanoscale morphology (40-80 nm diameter) and positive expression of markers CD63, CD9, and Tsg101, confirming their quality. Measurements showed transepidermal water loss (TEWL), hydration, sebum, pH, and redness (a* value) returning toward healthy skin levels, highlighting the biocompatibility, biodegradability, and therapeutic potential of hMSC-exos as a cell-free treatment for sensitive skin and related dermatological issues.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36338115/

Cell-free Stem Cell-Derived Extract Formulation for Regenerative Medicine Applications

• Summary: In a study developing a novel cell-free stem cell-derived extract (CCM) from human progenitor endothelial stem cells (hPESCs) for regenerative medicine, the formulation was characterized to contain key growth factors including IGFBP 1, 2, 3, and 6, insulin, growth hormone, PDGF-AA, TGF-α, TGF-β1, and VEGF, as well as the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-1RA, alongside a high density of extracellular vesicles such as exosomes expressing CD81 and CD9 markers with sizes in the typical exosome range (mode ~53 nm), as confirmed by ELISA, nanoparticle tracking analysis (revealing ~183 billion particles/mL), and single particle interferometric reflectance imaging sensing. In vitro assays demonstrated significant enhancements in human fibroblast proliferation (p<0.0001) at 10% and 20% CCM concentrations via Alamar Blue testing and induced bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell migration (p<0.001) in Transwell assays, with heat-inactivation reducing migration efficacy, underscoring the role of bioactive proteins. This multifaceted, cell-free approach offers promising therapeutic potential for reducing inflammation and pain, promoting tissue repair and regeneration, and serving as a safer alternative to live cell therapies without tumorigenicity risks.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33316880/

Human placenta-derived endothelial progenitor cells: an animal-free culture system for efficient expansion

• Summary: A study developed an animal-free culture system for expanding endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) from full-term human placenta, demonstrating their efficacy in wound repair using a mouse model. EPCs were isolated via enzymatic digestion, expanded in EBM-2 medium with platelet lysate and growth factors (bFGF, IGF, VEGF), and characterized for markers (CD133+, CD34+, VEGFR2+; CD31-, CD45-) and functions like Ac-LDL uptake and tube formation. In vivo, tail vein injection of 1 × 10^5 EPCs into C57BL/6J mice with full-thickness excisional wounds led to accelerated healing over 10 days, with 4-fold increased Ki-67 staining for proliferation, reduced inflammation (48.94% fewer neutrophils, 53.4% fewer macrophages), and integration of human VEGFR2+ EPCs in wound tissues. Mechanisms involved vascularization support, inflammation reduction (lower TNF-α, IL-1β), and tissue proliferation enhancement, positioning these non-embryonic EPCs as a promising tool for cosmetic skin rejuvenation through improved repair and regeneration without ethical concerns.
• Link: https://perma.cc/DRJ6-XYMC