Exploring the Use of Stem Cell Therapy in Treating Osteoarthritis in Dogs

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease in dogs, causing pain and reduced mobility. Current treatment options focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the underlying cause. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative by targeting the regeneration of damaged joint tissues. This thesis explores the use of stem cell therapy in treating osteoarthritis in dogs, investigating its efficacy, safety, and potential benefits. The introduction provides an overview of osteoarthritis in dogs, highlighting the limitations of current treatment options and the need for alternative therapies such as stem cell therapy. The background of the study delves into the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and the mechanisms of action of stem cells in promoting tissue repair and regeneration. The problem statement emphasizes the gaps in existing research and the importance of exploring stem cell therapy as a novel approach to managing osteoarthritis in dogs. The objectives of the study aim to evaluate the effectiveness of stem cell therapy in alleviating symptoms, improving joint function, and enhancing the quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis. The limitations of the study are discussed, including potential challenges in sample size, follow-up duration, and variability in treatment response among individual dogs. The scope of the study outlines the specific parameters and criteria for selecting canine participants and assessing treatment outcomes. The significance of the study lies in its potential to advance veterinary medicine by providing valuable insights into the application of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis in dogs. The structure of the thesis highlights the organization of chapters, from the literature review to the research methodology, discussion of findings, and conclusion. Definitions of key terms related to osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy, and canine physiology are provided to enhance understanding throughout the thesis. The literature review encompasses ten key studies and research articles that investigate the use of stem cell therapy in treating osteoarthritis in dogs. These sources provide insights into the efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes of stem cell treatment, as well as comparisons with conventional therapies. The research methodology details the study design, participant selection criteria, treatment protocol, outcome measures, and statistical analysis methods employed in evaluating the effects of stem cell therapy on dogs with osteoarthritis. The discussion of findings presents a comprehensive analysis of the results, including improvements in lameness scores, joint mobility, and histological changes in joint tissues following stem cell therapy. Factors influencing treatment response, such as age, breed, and disease severity, are explored to enhance clinical decision-making. The conclusion summarizes the key findings, implications for veterinary practice, and recommendations for future research in advancing the use of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis in dogs. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis in dogs, highlighting its potential as a safe and effective treatment option. By addressing the limitations of current therapies and exploring innovative approaches, this research aims to improve the quality of life for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis and pave the way for further advancements in veterinary regenerative medicine.