Effect of Autologous Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract Introduction: Chronic inflammation causes articular bone and cartilage degeneration in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Despite recent advancements in the management of RA, adverse side effects and ineffective treatments remain a problem. Access to treatment is hampered by financial restrictions. As a result, medications that reduce inflammation and bone resorption that are both safe and less expensive are required. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have recently been identified as a potential therapy for RA. Aim of study: The aim of this study was to examine the anti-arthritic effect of rat bone marrow-MSCs, oligosaccharides and human placental extract, individually and combined on RA model, using Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis in rats. Materials and methods: In female rats, RA was induced by injecting CFA in the paw of hind limb. Rat bone marrow-MSCs, oligosaccharides, and human placental extract (HPE) were given individually and in combination via intra-peritoneal route. Complete blood picture (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), serum cortisol, urea, uric acid and other biochemical parameters were measured to determine the safety and efficacy of the different treatments. Histopathological analysis of bone sections was carried out. Result: Combining oligosaccharides and HPE with rat-bone marrow MSCs had a favorable anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory effect in CFA-induced arthritis in rats, with no negative effects on CBC, renal functions, serum cortisol, ESR, and liver enzymes. Histopathological analysis showed healing and remodeling of osteoporotic lesions in arthritic rats. Conclusion: Combination of rat MSCs, oligosaccharides and HPE has potential to be an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.