Basic science of mesenchymal stem cells in spine surgery

Current research is trending toward tissue engineering and regeneration of mesenchymal tissues in treatment of disease, particularly degenerative musculoskeletal pathology. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) provide a potential option for improving bone and cartilage growth and repair based on their underlying potency. MSCs are attractive for their multipotent and immunological properties and ease of bulk manufacturing. This article reviews the basic science of MSCs and obstacles to clinical use and discusses the potential application in spinal surgery.