Cell expansion methods and therapeutic compositions

The invention relates to methods for the production of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), in particular to methods for the large scale production of MSCs, such as allogeneic MSCs, for use in treating various diseases in humans and other animals. The invention also relates to methods which permit the selection of preferred donor cells suitable for l arge scal e production of MSCs. The invention also relates to purified MSCs prepared by the methods of the invention. The invention also relates to the use of platelet lysate in methods for preparing cultures of MSCs and to the preparation of extracellular matrix-enriched secretions. The invention also relates to methods for the preparation of compositions comprising one or more component(s) secreted from cultured MSCs, having improved stability characteristics. The invention also relates to methods for treating inflammatory conditions, including alleviating the pain thereof, by administering high molecular mass glycoconjugate-enriched conditioned media, and to methods for treating neuropathic pain by administering high molecular mass glycoconjugate-enriched conditioned media.