Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) secrete various growth factors to promote wound healing and to regenerate various tissues, such as bone, cartilage, and fat tissue. Subcutaneous adipose tissue is a considerable cell source in clinical practice and can be collected relatively easily and safely under local anesthesia. Moreover, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a plasma component containing many platelets purified by centrifuging the collected blood, also promotes wound healing. PRP can be easily gelled and is therefore attracting attention as a scaffolding material for transplanted cells. The usefulness of a mixture of ASCs and PRP for periodontal tissue regeneration has been in vitro demonstrated in our previous study. The aim of this study is to present the protocol of translation of tissue regeneration with ASCs and PRP into practical use, evaluating its efficacy. METHODS: This study is a multicenter, randomized, open-label comparative clinical trial. Fifteen patients will be randomly assigned to the treatment with mixture of ASCs and PRP or enamel matrix derivate administration into periodontal tissue defects. Increase in height of new alveolar bone in the transplanted area will be evaluated. The evaluation will be performed using dental radiographs after 36 weeks of transplantation. Occurrence of adverse events will be evaluated as secondary outcome. RESULTS: This clinical study was initiated after meeting the regulations to be complied with, including ethical review and regulatory notifications. CONCLUSIONS: If effective, this cell therapy using autologous mesenchymal stem cells can represent a useful medical technology for regeneration of periodontal defects.