| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThe present invention relates to isolating and using pre-chondrocytes from umbilical cord, in particular Wharton's jelly, which result in chondrocytes that make cartilage. The isolated prochondrocytes, or the resulting chondrocytes, can be mitotically expanded in culture and used to form new cartilage tissue for treatment. Pre-chondrocytes or "banks" of chondrocytes are cryopreserved and can be thawed as needed to use to form new cartilage tissue. |