No abstract

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dry eye disease (DED) is an immune-mediated multifactorial disease, with high level of prevalence in humans and dogs. Our aim in this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (Ad-MSCs) implanted around the lacrimal glands in 12 dogs (24 eyes) with KCS, which is refractory to current available treatments. Schirmer tear test (STT) and ocular surface integrity were assessed at 0 (before treatment), 3, 6, and 9 months after treatment. Average STT values and all clinical signs showed a statistically significant change (P < 0.001) during the follow-up with reduction in all ocular parameters scored: ocular discharge, conjunctival hyperaemia, and corneal changes, and there were no signs of regression or worsening. Implanted cells were well tolerated and were effective reducing clinical signs of KCS with a sustained effect during the study period. None of the animals showed systemic or local complications during the study. To our knowledge, this is the first time in literature that implantation of allogeneic Ad-MSCs around lacrimal glands has been found as an effective therapeutic alternative to treat dogs with KCS. These results could reinforce a good effective solution to be extrapolated to future studies in human.

Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disease with a 10-15 per cent prevalence. Current treatments vary in their efficacy and safety. The immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) make them a promising alternative treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of allogeneic canine adipose MSCs (cAd-MSCs) in dogs with refractory AD. Twenty-six dogs, suffering from AD for at least 12 months, not responding to conventional therapy, received an intravenous dose of 1.5×10 cAd-MSCs/kg bodyweight. Clinical signs, haematological and biochemistry profiles, and AD severity were assessed in a six-month follow-up using a validated scoring system (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, version 4 (CADESI-04)). The degree of pruritus was quantified using a validated visual analogue scale, and also owner's global assessment of treatment efficacy. Twenty-two animals completed the study. Pruritus and CADESI-04 scores decreased significantly after one week or month of treatment, respectively, and remained stable for six months. Owner's global assessment score was 2.15±1.15 for all the animals in the study. In conclusion, systemic administration of allogeneic cAd-MSCs appeared to be a simple therapy with positive outcome in the remission of clinical signs for AD refractory to conventional medications, for at least six months and with no adverse events.