Dr. Arnold Caplan, a friend, a colleague, and a mentor, recently passed away. The loss to the human AND veterinary medical fields is enormous. Arnold “Arnie” Caplan, a pioneering researcher in the field of regenerative medicine, is renowned for his groundbreaking work with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Arnie earned his Ph.D. from John Hopkins University School of Medicine. He has since dedicated his career to advancing our understanding of stem cell biology. In the late 1980s, Caplan identified and isolated mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow, a discovery that created the field of regenerative medicine. His work laid the foundation for exploring the therapeutic potential of MSCs in hundreds of medical applications.

Caplan’s research highlighted the regenerative properties of MSCs, marking them as promising candidates for tissue repair and regeneration. Over the years, his contributions have not only advanced our understanding of stem cell biology but have also opened doors to new possibilities in regenerative medicine, with MSCs being explored as potential treatments for conditions such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and immune disorders.

Most significantly, Arnie never stopped exploring the boundaries of what stem cells could do. He adamantly admitted he was wrong about stem cell mechanisms and re-named them Medicinal Signaling Cells to show they were the body’s drug store. Every 3-5 years he would renovate our understanding of these healing cells, showing they could block inflammation, treat pain, modulate the immune system, and stimulate healing. 

Dr. Caplan’s work has left an indelible mark on the field, shaping the trajectory of regenerative medicine and offering hope for innovative therapeutic interventions. He founded numerous companies and filed many foundational patents. 

For our founder and CEO, Dr. Bob Harman, Dr. Caplan was a guide through the complicated research literature, inviting us to enter his world of human medicine. He knew that veterinarians would be the pioneers and that the data we created would be transformative. He was correct. And with his urging and blessing, our veterinary regenerative medicine company, VetStem, gathered its complete veterinary data and sought FDA approval to extend our expertise to human treatments. The FDA granted approval, making us the pioneering company to demonstrate the reality of “One Medicine” and showcase how veterinary data can accelerate advancements in human medicine.

Arnie, you will be missed by everyone in the field, but your wisdom will impact the field for decades to come. Long live MSC’s.

Tomorrow is National French Bulldog Day! These snuggly, squished-face cuties have gained popularity in recent years but, as is the case with many purebred dogs, it’s important to note that they are susceptible to certain health conditions including spinal disorders. One of the most common neurological conditions affecting Frenchies is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).

IVDD is a degenerative condition that affects the spinal discs in dogs. In French Bulldogs, IVDD can be particularly problematic due to their unique body structure. With their short legs and long bodies, extra strain is placed on their intervertebral discs. When the discs become weakened or herniated, this causes compression on the surrounding nerves and/or spinal cord, which can lead to pain and mobility issues, including temporary or permanent paralysis.

One example is Lady Josephine Beatrix Von Snugglebottom (aka Jojo). At just 6 months old, she was suffering from severe IVDD and spinal cord compression. At the time, she was unable to use her back legs for about one month. Jojo underwent surgery to relieve the pressure on her spine and aid in preventing further damage. She also received daily laser therapy and weekly acupuncture treatments. There was noticeable improvement in the strength in her legs, and she was able to hold herself up unassisted approximately two months after surgery. She still required a wheelchair however.

Shortly thereafter, Jojo was treated with VetStem Cell Therapy to aid the further healing of her spine. She received two intravenous injections of her own stem cells approximately one month apart. Her owner noted that following the treatment with stem cells, she was finally able to get around without her wheelchair. She began to run and, according to her owner, she hasn’t stopped since! Check out this adorable video of Jojo.

While many veterinarians have treated similar conditions with VetStem Cell Therapy and have seen remarkable results, it’s important to note that the research is ongoing for this condition and each dog will respond differently to treatment. A case such as Jojo’s falls under our Clinical Research Program for canine back pain. If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.  

January is Walk Your Pet Month, an opportune time to celebrate the numerous benefits that daily walks bring to our furry friends, particularly our canine companions. Regular walks play a crucial role in maintaining the overall well-being of our pets and can actually improve their joint health. You may be surprised to learn that walking can help manage the symptoms of and even delay the onset of osteoarthritis in dogs.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common ailment in dogs. According to the stats, 1 in 5 dogs in the U.S. are affected by OA, and it has been identified as a leading cause of euthanasia. Symptoms of OA include pain, reduced mobility, and a diminished quality of life.

Fortunately, walking can be a game-changer in mitigating these symptoms. Regular exercise helps our pets maintain a healthy weight, which alleviates stress on joints. Additionally, walking can help to strengthen the muscles and supporting soft tissue structures around the joints, promoting increased joint stability. It can also increase joint fluid circulation, which is beneficial to maintaining healthy joint cartilage.

According to Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, “Regular physical activity is paramount in the treatment of osteoarthritis both in humans and animals. A lifestyle of regular activity that is moderated away from intermittent extremes of exercise (such as long hikes on the weekends) and activities to which the pet is not conditioned is essential. Ideally, multiple shorter walks are better than one long one. The same activity every day (or slightly increasing if tolerated) is ideal.”

That being said, all pets are different and what works for one dog may not work for another. Your veterinarian can help you craft an exercise regimen that is specifically tailored to your pet. And if your dog already suffers from OA, VetStem Cell Therapy may help get them back to their daily walks! Speak to your veterinarian or contact us to receive a list of providers near you.