Physeal regeneration: From bench to bedside

Abstract

Physeal injury leading to growth arrest in children is a problem requiring regenerative solutions to restore normal growth activity. This article touches on the structure and function of the growth plate, the injuries and the resultant growth plate arrests, methods of imaging and assessing growth arrest, and conventional treatment. The cell-based strategies for growth plate repair have been discussed in details including the methods of culture, control of differentiation and expansion, scaffolds, and bioreactors. Characterization and release criteria for chondrocytes for transplantation are also suggested. Finally, preclinical and clinical studies have been discussed.