Tendon-Derived Stem Cells for Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff tear is a common cause of shoulder pain and disability, and arthroscopic repair is a frequently performed procedure. To improve results and reduce failure rate of this surgery, biological solutions to enhance tendon repair are being investigated. Mesenchymal stem cells contribute in creating a suitable microenvironment for tissue repair, and therefore therapeutic use of tendon tissue-specific stem cells in clinical practice is one of the most promising challenges in regenerative medicine approaches to rotator cuff repair. The aim of this article is to revise the current literature on tendon-derived stem cells for rotator cuff repair. Identification and characterization of a reservoir of progenitor cells in human shoulder periarticular tissues has been successfully confirmed by different authors. The first animal studies on the healing potential of these mesenchymal stem cells showed encouraging results. No clinical trials have been published yet. Rigorous preclinical translational studies are needed to ensure safety and efficacy of stem cells–based treatments before routine use in clinical practice.