Transplanting Dental Stem Cells in Dogs with Muscular Dystrophy
Author Information
Author(s): Kerkis Irina, Ambrosio Carlos E, Kerkis Alexandre, Martins Daniele S, Zucconi Eder, Fonseca Simone AS, Cabral Rosa M, Maranduba Carlos MC, Gaiad Thais P, Morini Adriana C, Vieira Natassia M, Brolio Marina P, Sant'Anna Osvaldo A, Miglino Maria A, Zatz Mayana
Primary Institution: Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
Hypothesis
Can early transplantation of human immature dental pulp stem cells improve muscle function in golden retriever muscular dystrophy (GRMD) dogs?
Conclusion
Systemic multiple deliveries of human dental pulp stem cells were more effective than local injections in improving the clinical condition of GRMD dogs.
Supporting Evidence
- Chimeric muscle fibers were detected, indicating successful engraftment of the transplanted cells.
- No signs of immune rejection were observed in the treated dogs.
- Better clinical condition was noted in the dog receiving monthly arterial injections.
- Human dystrophin expression was detected in some muscle fibers after transplantation.
Takeaway
Scientists tried giving special cells from baby teeth to sick dogs to help their muscles get better, and it worked better when they gave the cells through the blood instead of just in one spot.
Methodology
Human immature dental pulp stem cells were transplanted into GRMD dogs via arterial or muscular injections, and their clinical effects were monitored through blood exams and physical scores.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of randomization and control for all variables affecting the outcomes.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and did not quantify the engraftment of cells in different muscles.
Participant Demographics
Four GRMD dogs (2 males and 2 females) aged 28 to 40 days were used in the study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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