Progress of Stem Cell Research in Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative condition that primarily affects people in their middle and advanced years. Meniscus wear, osteophyte production, and articular cartilage degeneration are its defining characteristics. Due to a lack of nutrients from the nerve and joint microvascular systems, articular cartilage finds it challenging to self-heal or repair after degenerative changes. In general, conservative therapy is ineffective, and joint replacement is only an option for patients with very advanced illness. Because of their differentiation capacity into many distinct types and their potent paracrine activity, stem cells are regarded as the best materials for tissue regeneration and repair. Fatty tissue, bone marrow, and umbilical cord all contain stem cells. In general, arthritic symptoms can be reduced by injecting stem cells into the knee joint cavity after isolation and in vitro multiplication. The efficacy of mesodermal stem cells (MSCs) in reducing signs and symptoms of KOA has been confirmed over time by a significant number of clinical trials on the topic. This article examines the outcomes of clinical research, therapeutic outcomes, current issues, and historical development prospects.