Abstract:
The chemotactic properties of a biologic scaffold composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) and subjected to in vivo degradation and remodeling were evaluated in a mouse model of Achilles tendon reconstruction. Following a segmental resection of the Achilles tendon in both C57BL/6 and MRL/MpJ mice, the defect was repaired with either an ECM scaffold composed of urinary bladder matrix (UBM) or resected autologous tendon. The surgically repaired and the contralateral tendons were harvested at 3, 7, and 14 days following surgery from each animal. Chemotaxis of multipotential progenitor cells toward the harvested tissue was quantified using a fluorescent-based cell migration assay. Results showed greater migration of progenitor cells toward tendons repaired with UBM-ECM scaffold compared to both the tendons repaired with autologous tissue and the normal contralateral tendon in both the MRL/MpJ and C57BL/6 mice. The magnitude and temporal pattern of the chemotactic response differed between the two mouse strains. (Click here to view entire article.)

Comments by Dr. Hitzig, “This is an important paper demonstrating the Migration of Active Progenitor (Stem) Cells to the site of injury for repair when ACell (UBM) is used. This applies to many fields of study including of course Hair Transplantation. This is why we don’t need to use bone marrow aspiration.The Enhanced PRP provides enough VEGF (growth factor) along with adult stem cells to start the process as more Adult Stem Cells are attracted by ACell migration to the site.”

We are also working separately with several Veterinary Surgeons in a pilot study on several dogs with tendon and hip injuries to quickly demonstrate the positive results. The early results are exciting. Look forward to keeping you posted.