Editorial Commentary: Tendon-Derived Stem Cells Are in the Rotator Cuff Remnant and Decline With Age and Tear Chronicity-But the Clinical Relevance Is Not Known.

Abstract

The presence of tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) and progenitor cells in tendon tissue has been established previously. These cells are part of the mesenchymal adult stem cell line, are multipotent, and can differentiate into several mesenchymal cell lines: osteogenic, chondrogenic, adipogenic, and tenogenic. Mechanical loading may play an important role in the differentiation process and regulates cell differentiation via several signaling pathways. TDSCs can therefore differentiate into several tissues, and the potential for chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation may be beneficial in tendon-bone regeneration. TDSCs are present in the tendon stumps, and numerous tests have shown that these cells are alive and have the potential to differentiate. Age is a predictor of TDSC activity, and in patients older than 60 years, cell viability and the potential to differentiate are reduced. Despite the theoretical potential that TDSCs may have for tendon healing and improved function, the potential for clinical applications is unclear.