Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and uses thereof are provided. MSCs for inducing ossification and enhancing bone and/qr cartilage repair in a patient in need thereof are also provided. The method and compositions combine MSCs, at least one bone regeneration protein, such as bone morphogenetic protein (e.g. BMP-2), optionally in combination with additional cell growth factors including the components of a cell growth medium, further in combination with a biomaterial for delivery of the cells to the repair site in the patient are also provided.
