amniotic fluid

Amniotic fluid is a complex biologic substance derived from the fluid surrounding a fetus during pregnancy, typically harvested during scheduled cesarean sections. For therapeutic applications in orthopedics, it is processed to be sterile and acellular while retaining a high concentration of bioactive components, including hyaluronic acid, growth factors (such as TGF-β and EGF), and anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, IL-1Ra). These components are thought to work synergistically to reduce joint inflammation, provide lubrication, and potentially support the repair of damaged cartilage. The University of Utah has investigated the use of sterile amniotic fluid as an intra-articular injection for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, comparing its efficacy and safety profile against standard-of-care corticosteroids in Phase I/II clinical trials.

Other names

sterile amniotic fluidhuman amniotic fluid