Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) aims to physically processes bone marrow aspirate through centrifugation and filtration in hopes of concentrating mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and perivascular cells that have similar properties for promoting healing and tissue repair. BMAC also contains a high concentration of platelets similar to platelet rich plasma. BMAC however has relatively very few stem cells and cannot be consistently or accurately dosed based on their stem cell content. On the other hand, it is quicker to process and tends to be a less costly alternative.

Contact regmed@cornell.edu for interest, consultation and relevant instructions.

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a product created from your own pet's blood that is rich in cells called platelets rich in growth factors and inflammatory mediators. PRP can be processed on site and delivered all at one time with mild sedation. PRP essentially reduces inflammation and associated discomfort.

When used for osteoarthritis in dogs, PRP typically shows a positive effect on comfort and mobility lasting about three months. In human literature, PRP is more effective in early arthritis, but in our experience and research it can still help with more advanced arthritis and may be repeated as indicated.

Contact regmed@cornell.edu for interest, consultation and relevant instructions.

Mesenchymal stem (stromal) cell therapy (MSC) may be used as an orthobiologic for certain musculoskeletal diseases with supporting evidence in veterinary medicine.

We do not expect mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) to replace or regrow damaged tissue.  Scientific research has shown that these products are more likely to have a “trophic effect” in that they provide a beneficial effect for inflammation, pain and healing.

Although more research is warranted for any orthobiologic product, we are optimistic given the current scientific support.

Contact regmed@cornell.edu for interest, consultation and relevant instructions.

Mesenchymal stem (stromal) cell therapy (MSC) may be used as an orthobiologic for certain musculoskeletal diseases with supporting evidence in veterinary medicine. Stem cell collection on dogs may be done in several ways. At the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, we chose to harvest stem cells from bone marrow or fat for culture and expansion as well as an option for longer term storage and repeat dosing. The harvesting of cells for bone marrow may be conducted under patient sedation. Cultured cells are typically ready for delivery in about 3-4 weeks, at which time a second sedated procedure is conducted. The cells may be stored frozen for repeat or future procedures without having to collect again.

We do not expect mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) to replace or regrow damaged tissue. Scientific research has shown that these products are more likely to have a “trophic effect” in that they provide a beneficial effect for inflammation, pain and healing. In dogs, studies support their use for osteoarthritis with a clinical benefit lasting 3-6 months. There is some evidence of added benefit when delivered along with PRP.  Although more research is warranted for any orthobiologic product, we are optimistic given the current scientific support.

Contact regmed@cornell.edu for interest, consultation and relevant instructions.

Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) is an autologous blood product. The patient’s blood is collected using sterile technique and placed in a commercial ACS (IRAP) kit. This kit is incubated for 17-24 hours prior to additional processing in the lab. Although ACS contains proteins, it is most commonly known for containing Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein (IRAP). IRAP is an anti-inflammatory treatment for joint disease in pets that works by counteracting the pro-inflammatory cascade triggered by the protein interleukin-1. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory protein that is found in increased quantities in unhealthy joints, such as those suffering from osteoarthritis. IL-1 is a potent chemical signal that activates many other harmful cytokines along the pathway of inflammation within the joint. Release of IL-1 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines leads to a downward spiral of inflammation and joint disease, resulting in cartilage damage and osteoarthritis. As tissue damage increases within the joint, additional IL-1 is produced, perpetuating the vicious cycle of inflammation and osteoarthritis.

IRAP works in the horse by blocking IL-1 from binding to its receptor inside the joint, thus stopping the cascade of inflammation triggered by IL-1 and slowing the progression of osteoarthritis.

The laboratory may provide IRAP kits to users. Kits must then be returned the same day for processing. This service is only provided for local veterinarians that can deliver the kit to Cornell within a few hours of collection.

Contact regmed@cornell.edu for interest, consultation and relevant instructions.