Osteochondral regeneration using autologous cell construct with β TCP

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We established a new method to make cell only construct on TCP to repair osteochondral defect.Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were obtained from the iliac crest of Japanese-white-rabbit. Monolayer expanded cells were mold into a cylinder of 4.8mm in diameter and 4mm in height on TCP. The autologous labeled-MSC plug was implanted with TCP in the patellofemoral groove of the rabbit. The knees were immobilized for one week. The rabbits were sacrificed at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 52 weeks after operation. The specimens were evaluated histologically and scanned with micro CT.In gross appearance of the cartilage at 6 weeks, most of the surface of the defect was covered with cartilage-like tissue. Smooth surfaces were maintained in regenerated cartilage at one year. Histologically, columnar distribution of the chondrocyte was observed in regenerated hyaline cartilage. In the subchondral bone level, endochondral ossification occurred at the peripheral area of the transplants, and small area in the central remained hyaline cartilage. Micro CT showed further ossification in subchondral bone level. Confocal microscopy detected the labeled cells both in cartilage layer and subchondral bone layer.The current study suggests that this cell-delivery system can be used for treatment of osteochondral defect and possibly for osteoarthritis.