Vet-stem, based in California, is a company specializing in veterinary regenerative medicine. Animals are injected with stem cells derived from their own tissue, such as fat, in order to treat arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries. Stem cell therapy, using adipose derived stem cells, has been available for horses for the last three years and Vet-stem has recently extended this treatment to dogs.More than 20% of dogs in the United States are affected with osteoarthritis (OA), a severe debilitating disease causing chronic pain and much suffering. A recent study investigated the effectiveness of a single injection of adipose-derived stem cells into the coxofemoral joints of dogs displaying lameness associated with OA. The results were promising, with patients showing decreased discomfort and increased mobility.
The treatment involves using the dogs’ own adipose-derived stem cells. Two tablespoons of adipose tissue are collected surgically from behind the shoulder blade or from the belly. This sample is then sent away to Vet-stem where the regenerative stem cells are isolated from the adipose tissue. The cells are sent back to the Veterinarian and injected into the injured tissue.
Vet-stem has now treated over 200 dogs with arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries. Dog owners are rejoicing, with a number of clients extremely relieved to find an alternative to euthanasia in order to relieve their pet of chronic pain and suffering. This is an exciting development in the world of stem cell therapy and is leading the way for treatment for a variety of diseases.
Primary References
- http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/diseasesandconditions/a/Vet_stem.htm
- http://www.the-scientist.com/pubmed/18183546
Secondary References
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