Mesenchymal stem cells in veterinary clinical practice: Evidence from naturally occurring diseases

Clinical evidence across veterinary medicine

A 2026 review in The Veterinary Journal examines clinical studies in which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), or extracellular vesicles derived from them, were used to treat naturally occurring disease in client-owned animals. The review covers musculoskeletal, neurological, ophthalmic, soft-tissue, oral mucosal, respiratory, kidney and inflammatory bowel conditions.

Where the evidence is strongest

The most developed evidence concerns equine superficial digital flexor tendon injuries and osteoarthritis in dogs and horses. These areas include several controlled or prospective studies. For many other conditions, however, the literature is still limited to pilot studies, case series or individual trials.

Important limitations

Differences in cell source, preparation, dose, administration route and outcome measurement make studies difficult to compare. Clinical validation of MSC-derived extracellular vesicles remains especially limited despite promising preclinical work. The authors call for more standardized studies to define safety, effectiveness and appropriate clinical use.

Source: Zayed M, Jeong B-H. Mesenchymal stem cells in veterinary clinical practice: Evidence from naturally occurring diseases. PubMed record 42624276.