The Contribution of Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma to the Treatment of Chronic Equine Laminitis: A Proof of Concept.
Authors: Angelone, Conti, Biacca, Battaglia, Pecorari, Piana, Gnudi, Leonardi, Ramoni, Basini, Dotti, Renzi, Ferrari, Grolli
Journal: International journal of molecular sciences
Summary
# Editorial Summary Chronic laminitis represents a complex, multifactorial inflammatory and vascular disease with limited effective treatment options once conventional therapies have failed, prompting investigation into regenerative approaches. This proof-of-concept study administered adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (aMSCs) combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) via intravenous injection into the digital vasculature of nine horses with grade III–IV laminitis, using an initial allogeneic dose followed by two autologous treatments at monthly intervals. Venographic assessment demonstrated progressive restoration of foot vascularisation across all subjects, accompanied by observable improvements in hoof structure and function, with no adverse reactions reported during treatment or follow-up. The theoretical basis—that aMSCs and PRP establish an anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic microenvironment capable of restoring lamellar tissue integrity—aligns with the mechanisms underpinning metabolic and sepsis-induced dysfunction, suggesting these cells may address pathogenic pathways rather than merely masking clinical signs. Whilst the small cohort limits definitive conclusions, the uniform positive response warrants larger controlled trials to establish whether intra-digital venous administration of combined stem cell and platelet therapies might become a viable option for horses unresponsive to conventional management.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Regenerative therapy combining aMSCs and PRP administered via digital vein injection may offer a viable option for horses with chronic laminitis refractory to conventional treatments, though evidence remains limited to this single proof-of-concept case series
- •The protocol showed no safety concerns in this small cohort, but larger controlled trials are needed before recommending this approach as standard practice
- •Venography proved useful for documenting vascular changes and may be a relevant monitoring tool if this therapy is pursued experimentally
Key Findings
- •All 9 horses with severe chronic laminitis showed progressive amelioration of foot vascularization on venography after three intravenous injections of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma at monthly intervals
- •Clinical improvement in hoof structure and function was observed in all treated horses following combined aMSC and PRP therapy
- •No adverse short-term or long-term events were reported, and horses returned to comfortable quality of life despite previous unsuccessful conventional treatment