Stem Cells for the Treatment of Skeletal Muscle Injury

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Skeletal muscle injuries are extremely common, accounting for up to 35%–55% of all sports injuries and quite possibly affecting all musculoskeletal traumas. These injuries result in the formation of fibrosis, which may lead to the development of painful contractures, increases patients' risk for repeat injuries, and limits their ability to return to a baseline or pre-injury level of function. The development of successful therapies for these injuries must consider the pathophysiology of these musculoskeletal conditions. We discuss the direct use of muscle-derived stem cells and some key cell population dynamics as well as the use of clinically applicable modalities that may enhance the local supply of stem cells to the zone of injury by promoting angiogenesis.

Section snippets

Pathophysiology of skeletal muscle injury

The pathophysiology of skeletal muscle injury is characterized by a sequence of events consisting of degeneration, inflammation, myofiber regeneration, and the formation of fibrotic scar tissue, as described below in detail and illustrated in Fig. 1.

Summary

Among the most commonly prescribed treatments for skeletal muscle injuries are rest, ice application, compression, and elevation as well as heat application and either immobilization or passive range of motion exercises. In many instances, however, these therapies remain suboptimal.

Based on current knowledge, the inflammatory response that follows injury promotes skeletal muscle regeneration, perhaps in part by locally recruiting stem cells through chemotaxis to the zone of injury. Although the

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