Effect of human adipose-derived regenerative cells on temporomandibular joint healing in immunodeficient rabbits

Increasing research attention has focused on the use of stem cells (SCs) in regenerative and reparative medicine. Adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRCs) are a relatively cheap and ethical source of SCs. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) have been reported with rising incidence over recent decades. The main aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of ADRCs application on the healing of both soft and hard temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissues, and to assess the possible utilization of ADRCs in TMD treatment. We investigated the effects of human ADRCs on the healing of TMJ defects in immunodeficient rabbits. With no prior cultivation, ADRCs were applied to a surgically created defect in the cartilage of a rabbit TMJ. The healing process and inflammatory response were examined. Our results indicated that ADRCs supported repair processes in soft tissues. However, ADRC treatment induced a significant immune response in both soft and hard tissues, with hard tissues showing a higher level of bone remodelling. Non-differentiated ADRCs can be a promising tool for regenerative medicine of TMJ; however, deeper understanding of their effect on the cellular level is needed.