Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital Knee Joint Team Wins Encouragement Award at Spring Conference

(From left) Professors Seon Jonggeun and Yang Hongyeol, Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital.

Hwasun Chonnam National University Hospital announced on June 4 that the knee joint team, consisting of Professors Seon Jonggeun and Yang Hongyeol from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, received the Academic Encouragement Award at the 22nd Spring Conference of the Korean Society for Musculoskeletal Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine in recognition of their advanced research achievements in regenerative medicine.

The award-winning paper, titled "Comparative Therapeutic Efficacy of Exosomes Derived from Different Mesenchymal Stem Cells in an Osteoarthritis Model: In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses," presents an innovative cell therapy strategy for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles secreted by cells and are attracting attention as key substances mediating the therapeutic effects of stem cells. They are being highlighted as next-generation regenerative medicine technology because they can provide regenerative effects while reducing the risk of side effects associated with cell transplantation.

This study is notable for systematically comparing and analyzing the therapeutic efficacy of exosomes extracted from different types of stem cells, including those derived from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord blood. The research team closely analyzed the differences in how each type of exosome protects chondrocytes, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, and induces cartilage regeneration.

In particular, the results showed that exosomes derived from bone marrow and umbilical cord blood demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy compared to other types. This finding was recognized for its academic value, as it suggests the potential for a new "cell-independent therapeutic strategy" that could overcome the limitations of direct stem cell transplantation.

Professor Seon Jonggeun said, "This award is especially meaningful as the research presents a more effective and precise treatment approach for degenerative joint diseases," adding, "We will continue to devote ourselves to clinical research in regenerative medicine within the field of orthopedic surgery."