autologous conditioned serum

Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) is a cell-free blood product derived from a patient's own blood that has been processed to increase anti-inflammatory components. It was developed in the mid-1990s as a means of generating interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), a naturally occurring inhibitor of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1. It is an experimental procedure in which a patient's own blood is extracted, manipulated, and then reintroduced with claimed benefits for treating osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders. The process involves removing approximately 2 fluid ounces (59 ml) of blood from the patient's arm, incubating it at a slightly raised temperature with medical grade glass beads coated with CrSO4, and then placing it in a centrifuge to separate its constituent parts. The resulting serum, enriched with anti-inflammatory cytokines (particularly IL-1Ra) and growth factors, is then injected into the patient's affected area.

Brand names

OrthokineRegenokine

Other names

ACS