Endogenous morphogens and fibrin bioscaffolds for stem cell therapeutics

•Endogenous growth factors and a fibrin scaffold support MSC expansion and transplantation.•Autologous growth factors can substitute for fetal bovine serum in all large-scale ex vivo processes.•A fibrin scaffold mimics a 3D environment for stem cell transplantation.

Clinical translation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is leading to optimization of procedures for ex vivo expansion. Endogenous growth factors and fibrin scaffolds can be used to support MSC expansion and transplantation. Cell growth on a fibrin scaffold mimics the 3D environment of tissue and facilitates handling and subsequent transplantation. This approach is presented as an essential toolbox in the substitution of fetal bovine serum in all large-scale ex vivo processes, providing quick and safe expansion of MSCs. This paper reviews the state of the art of platelet-rich plasma technology applied to clinical use of stem cells, focusing on current technology and methods, new challenges, and controversies.