Current Status of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cartilage Repair

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have gained increased attention in the treatment of injury-related cartilage damage. Most of the literature has focused on the use of bone marrow MSCs for chondrogensis; however its clinical use has presented consequences of donor site morbidity and pain as well as low cell number during harvest. Adipose tissue offers an abundant source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), showing promise for the treatment of cartilaginous injuries. Numerous studies have focused on the safety and efficacy of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC) in the form of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), supporting its use in future clinical applications. While reports of ADSC potential for cartilage repair have been encouraging, the lack of standardization among studies, as well as the confusing terminology describing the different forms of ADSC presents cause for deeper investigation of those studies reporting clinical success. Overall, ADSCs show significant potential as an alternative and/or adjunctive treatment of cartilaginous injuries.