Allogeneic adipose MSCs and autologous PRP for chronic non-healing wound in a cat

Abstract

Management of chronic non-healing wounds in cats requires a comprehensive approach. This report describes the treatment of a severe open skin wound on the skull using a combined approach involving allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). A 12-year-old neutered male mixed-breed domestic cat presented with a non-healing chronic wound on the skull. The wound extended from the orbital to the occipital area and from the left to the right temporal region. Laboratory test results were positive for feline immunodeficiency virus and impaired kidney function. Sensitivity tests revealed resistance to several antibiotics. Due to limited skin reconstruction options, MSCs were administered subcutaneously at the wound edge once a month for three months. PRP was collected one month after the initial MSC administration and injected at the wound edge monthly between MSC treatments. The wound diameter was measured daily during saline cleaning. The cat received protein-supplemented food daily. Wound healing was observed two weeks after the MSC administration, gradually decreasing in size and closing completely within 5 months. This case demonstrates the successful application of MSCs and PRP for treating chronic wounds in cats.

Keywords: bite wound; regenerative veterinary medicine; stem cells.

Figure 1. Photographs of chronic wounds healing of a 12-year-old neutered male mixed-breed domestic cat

(A,B) The cat presented with bite wounds that had progressed into chronic, non-healing lesions, extending from the orbital to the occipital regions and spanning across the left and right temporal areas. The affected wound area measured over 10 cm². (C) Two weeks after the administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the wound and overall health condition showed marked improvement. (D) Two months after MSC and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) administration. (E) Three months after MSC and PRP administration, the wound area had reduced to less than half of its original size. (F) Four months post-administration, the wound had closed and was covered by a scab

Figure 2. Morphology and characterisation of feline MSCs

Feline MSCs were derived from the adipose tissue of cats that had undergone ovariohysterectomy. The isolated cells exhibited key characteristics of MSCs, including adherence to plastic surfaces and fibroblast-like morphology (A), high expression of surface markers CD44, CD90, and CD105, and lack of expression of CD34 and MHC II (B). The cells could differentiate into (C) osteoblast stained with Alizarin red, (D) chondrocytes stained with Alcian blue, and (E) adipocytes stained with Oil Red O. Scale bars = 200 μm CD = cluster of differentiation; MHC = major histocompatibility complex; MSCs = mesenchymal stem cells

Figure 3. Timeline of allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) and allogeneic platelet-rich plasma (PRP) administration

The schematic timeline illustrates the administration of allogeneic MSCs and allogeneic PRP administration. Allogeneic ADMSCs were administered subcutaneously at the wound edge once a month for three months. Autologous PRP was collected one month after the initial MSC administration and injected at the wound edge monthly between MSC treatments (created with BioRender.com)