A phase 1 study to evaluate the potential role of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of chronic refractory tendinopathy

This study is testing whether injecting mesenchymal stem cells (special cells that can repair tissue) into a damaged Achilles tendon is safe and can reduce pain and improve function in people with long-standing Achilles tendinopathy who have not gotten better with other treatments. This is an early-phase safety study for people aged 40–75 who have had symptoms for at least 18 months. You may be eligible if: - You are between 40 and 75 years old - You have been diagnosed with mid-substance Achilles tendinopathy (confirmed by ultrasound) - You have had symptoms for at least 18 months - Your VISA-A function score is 55 or below - You have already tried a prescribed exercise rehabilitation program (at least 4 days per week for 8 weeks) without significant improvement - You are not of childbearing potential (females) You may NOT be eligible if: - Your Achilles problem is at the point of insertion into the heel bone (insertional tendinopathy) - You have a complete tendon tear - You have an inflammatory or rheumatological disorder - You have had Achilles surgery in the past 6 months - You have had a corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma injection in the last 3 months - You have had cancer in the past 5 years (other than certain skin cancers) - You have HIV, hepatitis B or C, HTLV, or syphilis - You take anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) or anti-inflammatory medications (including aspirin) Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.