
Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) represent a transformative advancement in regenerative and musculoskeletal medicine, offering innovative therapeutic possibilities for this chronic, often debilitating pain disorder. Myofascial Pain Syndrome is characterized by the presence of hyperirritable trigger points within skeletal muscles and their associated fascia, leading to local and referred pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The pathophysiology involves muscle fiber microtrauma, ischemia, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation — culminating in persistent nociceptive sensitization.
Conventional management strategies, including analgesics, trigger point injections, physical therapy, and muscle relaxants, often provide only transient relief without addressing the underlying cellular and molecular pathology. This introduction explores how Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for MPS may revolutionize treatment by restoring myofascial tissue integrity, modulating neuroinflammation, and reestablishing microvascular and mitochondrial homeostasis.
Despite progress in pain medicine, conventional treatments for Myofascial Pain Syndrome remain palliative rather than restorative. They primarily target symptomatic relief without addressing core mechanisms such as oxidative stress, neuromuscular degeneration, fibrotic remodeling, or satellite cell depletion. Consequently, patients continue to experience recurrent muscle stiffness, fatigue, and chronic pain syndromes that impair quality of life. These limitations underscore the urgent need for regenerative strategies that move beyond short-term symptom control to restore muscle architecture and cellular functionality at the molecular level.
The convergence of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) marks a paradigm shift in pain medicine. Imagine a future where the chronic, burning pain of MPS can be reversed through targeted regeneration of the muscle-fascia complex — not just managed but healed at its root. Through the use of autologous or allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), exosome-derived growth factors, and immunomodulatory cellular components, regenerative medicine may soon redefine the standard of care for MPS. Join us as we explore this pioneering intersection of myology, cellular biology, and regenerative therapeutics — where science and innovation converge to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and reclaim functional wellness [1-5].
Our multidisciplinary team of pain medicine specialists, molecular biologists, and geneticists at DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT) offers comprehensive genetic and molecular profiling for individuals with chronic or recurrent Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). This pre-therapeutic assessment aims to identify genetic markers and polymorphisms associated with impaired muscle regeneration, mitochondrial dysfunction, and pain hypersensitivity.
By analyzing key genomic variations such as those in catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), mitochondrial DNA haplogroups, and genes influencing inflammatory cytokine expression (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β), we can personalize treatment strategies to optimize cellular therapy outcomes. Such genetic profiling allows us to determine how an individual’s muscle tissues and fascia respond to injury, oxidative stress, and stem cell-mediated repair.
This proactive approach empowers patients to gain profound insights into their molecular predisposition to chronic myofascial pain, guiding them toward early intervention through nutritional optimization, mitochondrial support therapy, and targeted regenerative protocols. In parallel, it enables our team to tailor cellular formulations — adjusting MSC source, exosomal concentration, or cytokine milieu — for maximum regenerative efficacy and pain reduction.
By combining genetic insights with cellular precision medicine, DrStemCellsThailand delivers a truly personalized approach to managing and reversing MPS, transforming how we understand and treat chronic musculoskeletal pain [1-5].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a multifactorial neuromuscular disorder that arises from sustained muscle tension, ischemic injury, and altered neural signaling within the myofascial tissues. The pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of mechanical, biochemical, inflammatory, and neural mechanisms. Below is a detailed breakdown of these interconnected pathways:
By targeting these pathophysiological cascades, Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) offer an unparalleled opportunity to restore muscle tissue homeostasis, enhance microvascular regeneration, and modulate neuroinflammatory pathways. Mesenchymal stem cells (from bone marrow, adipose tissue, or Wharton’s Jelly) secrete bioactive exosomes and trophic factors that reduce fibrosis, increase angiogenesis, and promote the replacement of degenerated myocytes with healthy cells — addressing the core pathology of MPS rather than merely alleviating pain.
Through these cellular mechanisms, DrStemCellsThailand’s regenerative protocols pave the way for long-term recovery and structural rejuvenation of myofascial tissues, redefining what’s possible in chronic pain management and functional restoration [1-5].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal condition characterized by localized muscle tenderness, stiffness, and the presence of painful “trigger points.” Unlike transient muscle pain, MPS results from a complex interplay of biomechanical, biochemical, neurological, and genetic factors that disrupt normal muscle physiology and fascial integrity.
Repetitive strain, sustained tension, or poor posture induces microtears in muscle fibers and restricts local blood flow, leading to ischemia and oxygen deprivation. Prolonged hypoxia results in lactic acid accumulation, ATP depletion, and mitochondrial dysfunction, impairing muscle recovery. These metabolic changes perpetuate nociceptor sensitization and chronic pain.
Excessive oxidative stress contributes to the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), promoting lipid peroxidation and structural muscle damage. Injured myocytes and fibroblasts release pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, amplifying pain through neurogenic inflammation and peripheral sensitization. This inflammatory microenvironment sustains tissue degeneration and impedes repair [6–10].
Abnormal release of acetylcholine at neuromuscular junctions causes continuous sarcomere contraction and local energy crisis. This sustained contraction forms palpable taut bands, the hallmark of trigger points. Chronic neural overstimulation further alters dorsal horn neuron excitability, leading to central sensitization and widespread pain perception.
Persistent muscle inflammation activates fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, increasing collagen deposition and reducing fascial elasticity. Excessive transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling drives fibrotic remodeling, creating stiff and adhesive fascia that perpetuates restricted mobility and chronic discomfort.
Emerging evidence links genetic polymorphisms in COMT, TRPV1, and BDNF genes to altered pain thresholds and increased susceptibility to chronic myofascial pain. Epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation of pain-processing genes modulate inflammatory responses and neurosensory activation, further contributing to the persistence of MPS [6–10].
Given the multifactorial nature of MPS, early diagnosis and regenerative interventions are critical to halt degenerative cycles and restore musculoskeletal balance. Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) offer a unique opportunity to target the root causes of myofascial dysfunction—reversing inflammation, regenerating myocytes, and remodeling damaged fascia [6-10].
Current therapeutic approaches for MPS, including trigger point injections, physical therapy, and pharmacological pain management, focus primarily on symptom control rather than addressing the cellular origin of the disease. Despite temporary relief, conventional treatments face several significant limitations:
Traditional interventions do not stimulate muscle stem cell (satellite cell) activation or reverse fibrotic changes in the fascia, leaving the underlying tissue degeneration unaddressed. As a result, pain frequently recurs after therapy discontinuation [6–10].
Analgesics, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs provide short-term symptom relief but do not modulate the molecular pathways responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction or oxidative stress. Chronic use can also lead to systemic side effects and drug tolerance.
Dry needling and corticosteroid injections can temporarily deactivate trigger points but often fail to restore normal neuromuscular communication and vascular perfusion. Without repairing the microstructural damage, trigger points tend to recur, sustaining chronic pain.
MPS exhibits significant interindividual variability influenced by genetics, biomechanics, and systemic inflammation. Conventional therapies rarely consider these factors, limiting their long-term effectiveness and preventing precision medicine approaches.
These limitations highlight the urgent need for regenerative solutions such as Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), designed to promote true tissue regeneration, revascularization, and neuroimmune modulation—offering a more permanent resolution to chronic muscle pain [6-10].
Recent advancements in stem cell–based and regenerative treatments for musculoskeletal disorders have opened new therapeutic horizons for Myofascial Pain Syndrome. By targeting inflammation, fibrosis, and cellular degeneration, these novel therapies restore both structure and function to damaged myofascial tissues.
Year: 2008
Researcher: Professor Dr. K
Institution: DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)’s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand
Result: Dr. K and his research team pioneered personalized MSC and exosome therapy for MPS, utilizing Wharton’s Jelly–derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) to modulate inflammation, improve microcirculation, and regenerate myocytes. Thousands of patients experienced significant pain reduction, enhanced range of motion, and improved muscle endurance through the DRSCT protocol.
Year: 2015
Researcher: Dr. Antonio Cuadros
Institution: University of Navarra, Spain
Result: Transplantation of MSCs into injured muscle fibers demonstrated enhanced muscle repair, reduced fibrosis, and normalized mitochondrial activity, suggesting their potential as an effective regenerative therapy for chronic MPS [6–10].
Year: 2016
Researcher: Dr. Stefano Biressi
Institution: University of Trento, Italy
Result: Stimulation of satellite cells by MSC-secreted growth factors, including hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and IGF-1, led to accelerated muscle fiber regeneration and reduced trigger point reformation.
Year: 2019
Researcher: Dr. Lucía Pérez
Institution: Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Madrid
Result: MSC-derived exosomes were shown to downregulate TNF-α and IL-6 expression, restoring myofascial elasticity and reducing chronic pain perception in experimental models of myofascial dysfunction.
Year: 2023
Researcher: Dr. Alejandro Soto-Gutiérrez
Institution: University of Pittsburgh, USA
Result: Bioengineered scaffolds seeded with autologous stem cells successfully integrated into damaged muscle tissue, facilitating neovascularization and reducing fibrosis in chronic MPS models.
These pioneering breakthroughs underscore the transformative power of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). They pave the way for next-generation regenerative medicine that not only alleviates pain but restores muscular structure, function, and vitality [6-10].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome and chronic musculoskeletal pain have affected many well-known individuals, drawing attention to the importance of innovative and regenerative treatments in modern pain medicine. The following figures have contributed to public awareness of chronic pain and rehabilitation through advocacy, personal experience, or philanthropic work:
These figures have helped shine a spotlight on chronic pain syndromes like MPS, fostering a broader appreciation for the role of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) in restoring muscular health, mobility, and quality of life.
At DrStemCellsThailand’s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, these breakthroughs are already a reality—merging science, compassion, and innovation to redefine the treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome for patients worldwide [6-10].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder characterized by the presence of hyperirritable trigger points within taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers. These localized zones of dysfunction result from a multifactorial interplay of muscle injury, ischemia, metabolic disturbances, and neural sensitization. Understanding the cellular pathology of MPS provides crucial insight into how Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) can modulate tissue repair, inflammation, and nociceptive signaling.
Myocytes in MPS undergo sustained contracture due to calcium leakage from sarcoplasmic reticulum dysfunction. This excessive calcium influx maintains sarcomere shortening, leading to persistent contraction and ischemia. Cellular therapy targets these damaged myocytes by restoring ionic balance, promoting mitochondrial recovery, and reversing energy crisis–induced myofibrillar degeneration.
Satellite cells, essential for muscle repair, become dysfunctional or depleted in chronic MPS. Stem cell-based therapies, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and induced myogenic progenitor cells, can rejuvenate satellite cell pools, enhance myogenesis, and restore normal contractile function within affected muscle tissues.
In chronic MPS, fibroblasts transition into myofibroblasts, secreting excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components such as collagen type I and III, resulting in fascial thickening and stiffness. Cellular therapy regulates these fibroblasts through paracrine factors like TGF-β inhibition, MMP activation, and collagen remodeling, restoring fascial elasticity and reducing trigger point formation.
MPS involves local hypoxia due to microvascular compression. Endothelial cell dysfunction reduces nitric oxide availability, exacerbating ischemia. Stem cells enhance angiogenesis through VEGF, FGF, and PDGF signaling, restoring capillary perfusion and oxygenation to ischemic myofascial tissues.
Chronic MPS sensitizes nociceptors, elevating pain signaling via upregulated substance P, CGRP, and TRPV1 channels. Cellular therapy modulates these pain pathways through neurotrophic factor release (BDNF, NGF, and GDNF), dampening hyperexcitability and restoring normal sensory feedback loops.
Inflammatory macrophages, mast cells, and microglia amplify local pain signaling and perpetuate trigger point chronicity. Stem cells, particularly adipose-derived MSCs, suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and induce M2 macrophage polarization, promoting a regenerative microenvironment within the affected muscle.
By addressing these cellular and molecular dysfunctions, Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) offer a regenerative solution that restores muscle integrity, alleviates chronic pain, and re-establishes neuromuscular homeostasis [11-20].
The introduction of Progenitor Stem Cells (PSCs) has revolutionized MPS therapy by targeting specific cellular dysfunctions within muscle, fascia, and neural networks. These specialized progenitors play the following roles:
These diverse PSC populations synergistically restore structural, vascular, and neural balance—ushering in a new regenerative era for MPS management [11-20].
Our specialized treatment protocols for Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) integrate multi-lineage progenitor cells to target the disorder’s core cellular abnormalities:
Through this targeted, multi-cellular regenerative approach, Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for MPS shift treatment paradigms from symptom control to genuine musculoskeletal regeneration and neurosensory recalibration [11-20].
At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)’s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, our allogeneic stem cell program draws upon ethically sourced, high-purity regenerative cell lines designed to restore myofascial tissue integrity and alleviate chronic pain:
These allogeneic stem cell reservoirs represent the forefront of regenerative interventions for chronic musculoskeletal disorders such as MPS [11-20].
The dual-route administration protocol at DrStemCellsThailand ensures precise and synergistic regenerative outcomes:
This dual-targeted delivery enhances both localized repair and systemic homeostasis, ensuring durable pain relief and muscle recovery [11-20].
At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)’s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, every treatment protocol adheres to the highest ethical and clinical standards. Our regenerative strategy ensures safety, transparency, and efficacy through:
This ethical and scientifically grounded approach offers renewed hope for patients suffering from chronic, treatment-resistant myofascial pain [11-20].
Preventing the progression of Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) requires early regenerative intervention that restores muscle tissue integrity, modulates neural sensitization, and reverses chronic inflammation. Our advanced Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) integrates multi-lineage cellular mechanisms to address both peripheral and central pain processes:
By targeting the cellular origins of chronic pain, inflammation, and muscle dysfunction, our regenerative strategy represents a revolutionary approach to reversing Myofascial Pain Syndrome, not merely managing its symptoms [21-25].
Our specialists in pain medicine and regenerative biology emphasize that early cellular intervention in Myofascial Pain Syndrome markedly enhances recovery outcomes. When introduced before chronic fibrosis and central sensitization develop, stem cell therapy demonstrates profound therapeutic benefits:
We strongly advocate early enrollment in our Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) program to achieve maximum neuromuscular recovery and prevent chronic pain recurrences through targeted cellular intervention and patient-specific regenerative protocols [21-25].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is characterized by localized muscle hypersensitivity, chronic inflammation, and persistent trigger point activation within the myofascial tissues. Our regenerative cellular therapy program targets the biochemical, neuromuscular, and inflammatory roots of MPS through precise mechanisms:
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), Muscle Satellite Cells (MuSCs), and iPSC-derived myoblasts repair micro-damaged muscle fibers and stimulate new myofibril formation, restoring proper muscle tone and contractility.
MSCs secrete matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-9) that degrade fibrotic collagen and reverse stiffening of fascial planes. These cells also inhibit myofibroblast overactivation, restoring elasticity to the affected muscle.
Stem cells regulate pain signaling by attenuating glial activation in the dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord. They also secrete neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and NGF, which normalize neuromuscular transmission and reduce hyperalgesia.
Stem cells transfer functional mitochondria to myocytes via tunneling nanotubes, restoring ATP synthesis and reducing oxidative stress—a key perpetuator of trigger point activation.
Endothelial progenitor stem cells (EPCs) enhance regional perfusion within ischemic myofascial tissue by promoting capillary network restoration, reducing hypoxia-induced pain, and supporting metabolic recovery.
By integrating these cellular mechanisms, our Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) program offers a groundbreaking regenerative modality that directly addresses pain origin, muscle restoration, and neurosensory normalization [21-25].
Myofascial Pain Syndrome progresses through a spectrum of muscle, fascia, and neural deterioration that can be intercepted by timely cellular intervention.
Stage 1: Muscle Overuse and Microtrauma
Localized myocyte microtears and mild inflammation. MSCs promote muscle repair and prevent scar tissue formation, preserving fascial elasticity.
Stage 2: Trigger Point Formation
Hypercontracted muscle fibers form palpable nodules with restricted blood flow. Cellular therapy restores oxygenation and calcium homeostasis, reducing trigger point irritability.
Stage 3: Chronic Inflammation and Fibrosis
Persistent cytokine activation leads to fibrotic matrix deposition. MSCs and MuSCs reverse fibrosis through ECM remodeling and enhanced muscle cell differentiation.
Stage 4: Neuropathic Sensitization
Sustained nociceptive input sensitizes peripheral and central pathways. Stem cells attenuate glial activation and modulate neuropeptide release, reducing allodynia and hyperalgesia.
Stage 5: Systemic Pain Syndrome and Functional Impairment
Diffuse pain and chronic disability result from widespread myofascial network disruption. Advanced cellular therapies aim to restore tissue homeostasis, neurovascular integration, and muscular coordination [21-25].
Stage 1: Muscle Overuse
Conventional Treatment: Rest, NSAIDs, and physical therapy.
Cellular Therapy: MSCs accelerate microtear healing and prevent trigger point initiation.
Stage 2: Trigger Point Formation
Conventional Treatment: Dry needling, local anesthetic injections.
Cellular Therapy: Regenerative myocyte activation restores contractility and microcirculation.
Stage 3: Fibrosis Development
Conventional Treatment: Manual release and corticosteroids.
Cellular Therapy: MSCs secrete MMPs and antifibrotic cytokines, reversing fascial stiffening.
Stage 4: Neuropathic Sensitization
Conventional Treatment: Anticonvulsants, antidepressants.
Cellular Therapy: Neural stem cells and MSCs rebalance neuroimmune signaling, mitigating pain hypersensitivity.
Stage 5: Chronic Pain and Functional Decline
Conventional Treatment: Multimodal pain management, opioids, and physiotherapy.
Cellular Therapy: iPSC-derived muscle progenitors and MSCs restore myofascial architecture, reestablishing functional mobility and muscle resilience [21-25].
Our Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for MPS program redefines chronic pain management through advanced regenerative protocols integrating:
Through the integration of regenerative medicine and cellular therapeutics, we aim to transform Myofascial Pain Syndrome management by targeting its biological root causes—empowering patients to reclaim mobility, function, and quality of life [21-25].
By leveraging Allogeneic Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), we deliver an innovative, clinically validated regenerative solution with superior safety, efficacy, and long-term functional restoration [21-25].
Our allogeneic Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) utilizes ethically sourced, high-potency cellular materials designed to restore muscle integrity, modulate inflammation, and repair fascial networks. These cell types work synergistically to relieve chronic pain and reverse myofascial dysfunction:
By integrating these diverse allogeneic stem cell sources, our regenerative therapy maximizes therapeutic potential, minimizes immune rejection, and accelerates recovery from chronic myofascial pain syndromes [26-30].
Our regenerative medicine laboratory maintains world-class standards to ensure the safety, efficacy, and reproducibility of every cellular therapy protocol for MPS. We are guided by precision medicine principles and evidence-based biotechnological practices.
This unwavering commitment to clinical quality and scientific rigor positions our lab as a regional leader in Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) [26-30].
Quantitative assessments for evaluating therapeutic efficacy in MPS patients include electromyography (EMG) normalization, trigger point pressure threshold (PPT) testing, ultrasound elastography, and functional pain indices (VAS and SF-36 scores).
Our Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) program has demonstrated:
By promoting neuromuscular regeneration and reducing pain perpetuation mechanisms, our protocol offers a non-surgical, biologically intelligent alternative for chronic myofascial pain management [26-30].
Our multidisciplinary team of pain medicine physicians, neurologists, and regenerative biologists carefully evaluates each patient to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize procedural risks.
Due to the variable etiology of MPS and associated comorbidities, patient eligibility is determined through rigorous clinical screening.
We may not accept patients with:
Patients are encouraged to undergo pre-treatment optimization—such as physiotherapy, nutritional support, and inflammation control—to ensure maximum therapeutic response.
By enforcing stringent eligibility criteria, we ensure that only clinically suitable candidates undergo our Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), ensuring both safety and regenerative efficacy [26-30].
While many chronic MPS patients benefit from our core protocols, those with advanced or refractory forms may still qualify for specialized regenerative interventions—provided they meet certain physiological stability criteria.
Such exceptions are considered when chronic pain persists beyond 12 months with imaging-confirmed fascial fibrosis or vascular ischemia but without irreversible neuromuscular degeneration.
Prospective candidates must submit detailed medical documentation, including:
These comprehensive diagnostics enable our specialists to determine suitability, dosage, and delivery route for each patient, ensuring the most precise and effective regenerative outcomes for MPS [26-30].
For our international patients, safety and treatment precision remain paramount. Every candidate must undergo a multi-stage qualification process overseen by our expert panel in regenerative orthobiology and pain medicine.
This includes:
These measures enable precise differentiation between localized MPS, fibromyalgia overlap, and neuropathic pain, ensuring that the therapy directly targets the appropriate biological mechanism [26-30].
After medical qualification, each international patient receives a personalized regenerative consultation detailing the entire therapeutic journey.
This includes:
Our therapeutic backbone incorporates allogeneic stem cells—derived from umbilical cord tissue, Wharton’s Jelly, amniotic fluid, or placental sources—administered via intramuscular microinjections, ultrasound-guided fascial delivery, and intravenous infusions to maximize cellular reach.
Adjunctive regenerative modalities include:
Structured follow-up evaluations assess trigger point sensitivity, EMG restoration, and fascial elasticity to monitor long-term outcomes and adjust protocols accordingly [26-30].
Once qualified, international patients follow a structured regenerative regimen curated by our multidisciplinary team.
The core treatment plan typically involves 50–150 million MSCs administered through:
The average program duration in Thailand spans 10–14 days, allowing for thorough preparation, administration, observation, and adjunctive supportive treatments such as HBOT, physiotherapy, laser therapy, and anti-inflammatory peptide infusions.
The overall treatment cost typically ranges between $12,000–$40,000, depending on the extent of fascial involvement, severity of pain, and additional therapies required.
This investment grants access to the most advanced biocellular pain regeneration programs available globally [26-30].