Early-stage research published in npg Regenerative Medicine demonstrated that two medications on the market can enhance the body's ability to heal by releasing stem cells from bone marrow, reports Science Blog.
The medications — a CXCR4 antagonist used for bone marrow transplants and a beta-3 adrenergic agonist for bladder control — could be used to repair bone fractures of the spine, hip and leg post-surgery.
Researchers triggered the bone marrow of healthy rats to release mesenchymal stem cells and aid in the healing of fractures.
The study is led by scientists from Imperial College London in England, and includes researchers from Southfield, Mich.-based Beaumont Health.