Development of a Complete Triple Action Injectable Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an incurable complex disease affecting an estimated 240 million people globally, including 40 million Europeans. OA is the fastest growing cause of disability due to an aging population and the obesity epidemic, and it affects more people each year than cancer and heart disease. In knee OA, progressive degradation of bone and cartilage in the joint results in severe pain and reduced mobility.

Current Treatments

Current treatments for knee OA target only one aspect of the disease. However, the most recent scientific data highlight the need for multi-modal therapeutics to treat this complex disease. Furthermore, the limitations of treatments force 80% of patients to rely on strong, addictive pain medication.

Research Findings

Through the Hydrolieve ERC proof of concept grant, it was proven that Hydrobloc statistically significantly reduced pain sensations in an in vivo pain model. These exciting results led Dr. Alison Liddy to spin out Relevium Ltd.

Hydrobloc's Unique Approach

Hydrobloc's unique synergistic triple action addresses all aspects of this debilitating disease. It is the only therapeutic that:

• Regenerates the damaged cartilage
• Provides immediate, superior pain relief
• Improves the physical function of the joint through a cushioning lubricant effect

Pre-clinical studies have proven that Hydrobloc returns the OA joint to 90% of normal (non-OA) physical function.

Future Plans

With this EIC grant, Relevium is partnering with NUI Galway to validate the pre-clinical results in larger animals and preclinically test for other OA indications. Relevium will compile the clinical trial dossier and develop a business model towards the maturation and transition to commercialization.