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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Are stem cell treatments for pets safe and effective?

By Pinheiro, Luane Lopes et al.·Published in Stem cell reviews and reports·2019·Institute of Animal Health and Production, Brazil·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Is Stem Cell Commerce in Small Animal Therapies Scientifically and Morally Justified?

Plain-English summary

This paper talks about the use of stem cells in treating pets, which is becoming more common but isn't well-regulated yet. There are many questions about how effective and safe these treatments are, especially since they are often based on untested methods. The authors emphasize the need for thorough scientific studies to gather reliable information on how these stem cell therapies work for various pet diseases. Overall, the discussion highlights the challenges in using stem cells in veterinary medicine and the importance of proper research before these treatments can be widely recommended.

Abstract

The lack of clear regulations for the use of veterinary stem cells has triggered the commercialization of unproven experimental therapies for companion animal diseases. Adult stem cells have complex biological characteristics that are directly related to the therapeutic application, but several questions remain to be answered. In order to regulate the use of these cells, well-conducted, controlled scientific studies that generate high-quality data should be performed, in order to assess the efficacy and safety of the intended treatment. This paper discusses the scientific challenges of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in veterinary regenerative medicine, and reviews published trials of adipose-tissue-derived stem cells in companion animal diseases that spontaneously occur.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31140074/