Bone Marrow Mononucleated Cells Augmented Healing of Supra-coracoid Tendon in Poultry

Background: Tendon injuries frequently result in impaired function due to the limited regenerative capacity of tendon tissue. Conventional therapeutic approaches often fail to restore normal tendon architecture. Mesenchymal stem cell–based therapies have emerged as a promising strategy to enhance tendon repair. Aim: To evaluate the effect of avian bone marrow mononucleated cells (A-BMNCs) on the histological healing of surgically induced supracoracoid tendon defects in Vanraja chickens. Methods: Twenty-four matured Vanraja chickens were used. A standardized supracoracoid tendon defect was created by incising two-thirds of the tendon width and repairing it using 4/0 polyamide in a modified Kessler pattern. Birds were randomly allotted into two groups (n = 12 each): Group A received Roswell Park Memorial Institute medium (RPMI-1640) medium (200 µL), and Group B received Avian bone marrow mononucleated cells (A-BMNCs). Tendon samples were collected at 2, 4, and 6 weeks post-repair. Histological evaluation assessed inflammatory response, collagen fiber organization, cellularity, and structural restoration. Results: A-BMNC–treated birds (Group B) demonstrated markedly improved tendon healing characterized by reduced inflammation, diminished cellular infiltration, and progressive organization of collagen fibers, culminating in near-normal tendon architecture by six weeks. In contrast, control birds (Group A) showed delayed healing with persistent inflammation, disorganized collagen, and higher fibrocellular activity. Conclusion: A-BMNC therapy significantly enhances histological tendon healing following supracoracoid tendon injury in Vanraja chickens. These findings support the therapeutic potential of BMNCs as a regenerative option for improving tendon repair outcomes.