Cellular Biomedicine's haMPC Therapy Is Safe And Effective In Clinical Trial
By Cyndi Root
Cellular Biomedicine Group, Inc. announced in a press release that a Phase I/IIa clinical trial for haMPC therapy showed positive results. The trial for human adipose-derived mesenchymal precursor cell (haMPC) therapy is for Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA). The study was designed to test efficacy and safety of the intra-articular injections of autologous haMPCs. Wei Cao, CEO of Cellular Biomedicine Group, Inc. presented the findings at the New York Stem Cell Summit recently and said, “As far as we know this may be the first evidence that adipose derived stem cells can regenerate human cartilage in three months. We are expecting the on-going Phase IIb study will provide more data to show the advantages of ReJoinTM cell therapy for KOA.”
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) is common form of arthritis, located in the knee joint. KOA is progressive as the cartilage in the joint slowly degenerates. People with knee injuries can develop the condition and people in their middle and older years are prone to develop it. Pain is the most common symptom, gradually worsening as the condition progresses. Joints become swollen, leading to stiffness and lack of mobility. The disease is graded according to severity from 0 to 4 with 4 being the most severe. Patients with severe pain and immobility may elect for knee replacement surgery.
haMPC Therapy
Human adipose-derived mesenchymal precursor cell (haMPC) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine. This emerging field of inquiry shows promise as adipose tissue from adult stem cells is abundant and flexible for different lines of investigation. Researchers isolate these cells and apply them to varying clinical applications. Cells are harvested with minimal invasiveness, can be produced reliably, and transplanted effectively.
The Phase I/IIa haMPC Study
The Phase I/IIa clinical trial of haMPC was conducted by the Renji Hospital associated with the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. The study ended late in 2013 with no adverse events reported, suggesting that the therapy is safe. In effectiveness, results showed a statistically significant improvement in KOA symptoms using several indices. Patients improved in mobility and walking tasks, and experienced less pain. MRI images showed cartilage growth within three months and some reduction in bone marrow lesions. Six month follow-up shows similar results and investigators plan to continue to monitor patients.