Figure A1.
Schematic and illustrated technical overview of the main steps of the present study. The retained approach enabled a translational assessment of the cellular extracts under consideration, ranging from formulation options to ex vivo investigation of HA-containing combination product efficacy-related parameters. Steps 1 and 2 enabled the identification of optimally stable and sterilizable cellular derivatives. Step 3 enabled the characterization of the intrinsic properties and effects of the lyophilized cellular extracts. Step 4 enabled the study of the effects of the cellular extracts in a hydrogel environment with simulated oxidative stress within H2O2 challenge assays (i.e., mimicking accelerated degradation conditions or a pathological in vivo environment). Steps 5 and 6 enabled the validation of the technical applicability of the extracts and combination products for potential therapeutic management of tendinopathies, based on formulation, preliminary safety, and efficacy-related parameters. FRAP, ferric reducing antioxidant power; HA, hyaluronic acid; TEAC, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity.