Research
OSCA trial reports symptom relief and MRI changes in knee osteoarthritis
In a phase IIa trial of 113 people, one OSCA injection improved symptoms through month 6, while MRI findings were mixed and need longer follow-up.
An experimental cell-based treatment called OSCA improved pain and function through month 6 in a phase IIa trial of people with moderate knee osteoarthritis, according to results presented at an American College of Rheumatology meeting. The trial assigned 113 patients to a single injection of one of two doses or placebo.
Healio reported OMERACT-OARSI responder rates of 78.4% and 77.1% in the two OSCA groups, compared with 38.9% with placebo. MRI results were less uniform: researchers reported a significant improvement in the MOCART score with the mid-dose, while total WORMS scores did not differ significantly between treatment and placebo groups. A subregional marrow finding favored the high dose. MedPage Today described modest cartilage regeneration and marrow normalization.
The reports said there were no treatment-related serious adverse events. MedPage Today reported that participants will be followed for an additional 6 months and in a 5-year extension. Park said the findings could inform plans for phase 2b and 3 trials.
