Heterologous Wharton's Jelly Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Application on a Large Chronic Skin Wound in a 6-Month-Old Filly.
Authors: Lanci Aliai, Merlo Barbara, Mariella Jole, Castagnetti Carolina, Iacono Eleonora
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary Chronic skin wounds remain a significant clinical challenge in equine practice, with conventional management failing in approximately 50% of cases. This case report describes the application of heterologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from equine umbilical cord Wharton's jelly to treat a large non-healing wound in a 6-month-old filly, delivered via four applications suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel prepared with autologous plasma. The wound area reduced dramatically from 7.28 cm² at presentation to 1.90 cm² within four days of completing the treatment protocol—a 74% regression—with final healing achieved at 0.38 cm² and an 80% overall regression rate; notably, no local or systemic adverse effects were observed, and healing progressed without exuberant scar tissue formation. MSCs are thought to facilitate healing through paracrine mechanisms, modulating inflammatory responses and promoting cellular replacement rather than through direct cell engraftment. Whilst this represents a single clinical case and therefore requires cautious interpretation, the timeline and extent of wound closure warrant further investigation into MSC-based regenerative approaches for chronic equine wounds that have proven refractory to standard management, particularly given the favourable safety profile demonstrated here.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Mesenchymal stem cell therapy shows promise for treating chronic equine wounds that fail conventional management, with potential for rapid healing without complications
- •Wharton's jelly-derived stem cells can be sourced from umbilical cord tissue and applied topically in a gel carrier, making this potentially accessible for clinical use
- •This case demonstrates that heterologous (cross-species) stem cells may be tolerated without adverse reactions, though larger studies are needed before routine clinical adoption
Key Findings
- •Heterologous Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells applied topically 4 times reduced wound area from 7.28 cm² to 1.90 cm² in 4 days (74% regression)
- •Total wound regression reached 80% by discharge with final area of 0.38 cm², achieving complete healing 5 days later
- •No local or systemic adverse effects were observed following WJMSCs application
- •MSCs delivered via carboxymethylcellulose gel in autologous plasma demonstrated feasibility as a delivery method for topical regenerative therapy