Regenerative Approaches in Veterinary Orthopaedics: Stem Cells and Bioactive Molecules in Bone Tissue Engineering

Bone and cartilage disorders are among the most common causes of lameness, pain, and reduced performance in veterinary patients. Conventional treatments such as fixation, grafting, and pharmacological management often fail to restore complete structure and function, particularly in large bone defects and degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) has emerged as a promising regenerative approach that combines stem cells, bioactive molecules, and scaffolds to promote true tissue regeneration rather than simple repair. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), derived from sources such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, dental tissues, and umbilical cord, play a central role due to their regenerative, paracrine, and immunomodulatory properties. Bioactive molecules including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) further enhance osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Although cost, technical complexity, and regulatory issues currently limit widespread clinical use in veterinary practice, stem cell based therapies are increasingly being adopted as adjunctive treatments. This article provides a popular overview of stem cell sources, mechanisms of action, and their applications in veterinary bone and cartilage tissue engineering