Meniscus progenitor cells combined with joint lavage promote meniscus regeneration and cartilage protection in rat models.

ABSTRACT: The meniscus plays a crucial role in knee joint function, yet its limited intrinsic regenerative capacity, particularly within the avascular region, makes meniscal injuries a major therapeutic challenge. Meniscus progenitor cells (MPCs) have shown potential to promote meniscal regeneration, but their efficacy may be compromised in the inflammatory microenvironment. Joint lavage, a simple and clinically applied procedure that reduces intra-articular inflammation, may enhance the outcomes of cell-based therapies. Here, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of combining joint lavage with MPC transplantation in rat partial meniscectomy models and further examined the effects of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a key inflammatory mediator, on MPC function in vitro. Lavage significantly reduced

SUBMITTER: Guo SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12884168 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature