Review Article

Small Ruminant Models for Articular Cartilage Regeneration by Scaffold-Based Tissue Engineering

Table 2

Elements to be considered in experimental design and the advantages of small ruminants in the corresponding element.

Elements of research designAdvantages of small ruminants

Research designScaffoldMaterialNatural syntheticSufficient lifespan to observe degradation and toxicity
Loaded ingredientChondrocytes
MSCs
PRP or others
Sufficient tissue and blood volumes for cell isolation
ImplementationGroup designAnimal number endpoints(1) Cost effective
(2) Less ethical issues
(3) Flexible endpoint setting
Defect creationLocationTrochlea
Condyle
Similar anatomy to human, thicker cartilage, dense bone layer, make defect creation more easily and precisely
RangePartial-thickness
Full-thickness
Osteochondral
Postoperative manageDrugsPain controlling
Antibiotics
Similar weight-bearing biomechanical environment to human, can imitate rehabilitation process
Easy captivity
ActivityImmobilization
Restriction
Move freely
Outcome assessmentMacroscopy
Histology
Imaging examination
Biomechanics
Feasible to use routine diagnostic imaging and arthroscopy