CD133+ bone marrow-derived stem cells in conjuction with coronary artery bypass grafting

CD133+ are a  well-characterized and distinct early progenitor group of bone marrow-derived stem cells. These trials aim to measure the safety and efficacy of administration of these cells at the time of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy. The PERFECT trial, initiated in 2009, was the first Phase III trial for evaluation of intramyocardial bone marrow stem cell therapy during CABG surgery. A minimal time-frame of 2 weeks between the underlying myocardial infarction and cell therapy was required, providing acceptable tissue conditions for bypass surgery and and for sufficient time for the primary inflammatory response to pass.