ABSTRACT
Musculoskeletal stromal/progenitor cells (MSC) have been identified in bone marrow and in other tissues of the joint, including adipose (Hoffa fat), periosteum, and synovial tissue. MSCs are characterized by their phenotype and their ability to differentiate into three lineages: chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and adipocytes. They are also potent modulators of immune responses, and exhibit healing capacities. These unique MSC properties have opened new therapeutic options to various rheumatologic disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), other autoimmune diseases, osteoarthritis, and bone and cartilage genetic disorders. We review herein the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of MSC transplant in RA and current clinical applications.
