Effect of mesenchymal stem cells combined with chondroitin sulfate in an osteoarthritis in vitro model

Abstract Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease which affects the whole joint structure. Many authors have focused on the factors responsible for the development of inflammatory processes involved in OA. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) represent a promising alternative of cell-based therapy strategy in the treatment of OA which could be combined with any other drug. Chondroitin sulfate plays a protective role in the joint based on the decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus having an important role in activating and inhibiting the metabolic pathways in chondrocytes. Aims: The effectiveness of chondroitin sulfate and ASCs combined in an in vitro model of OA has been evaluated in this study. Materials: Cytokines and factors which are involved in OA as well as specific cartilage gene expression after adding ASCs and chondroitin sulfate have been discussed in detail. Results: Our results show a decrease in the expression of all genes related to the pro-inflammatory cytokines analysed. Although there was no increase in the expression of the specific genes of the cartilage matrix, such as collagen type II and aggrecan. Conclusions: This study shows the effectiveness of association of ASCs and chondroitin sulfate for the treatment of OA.