Biotech Raises $11 Million to Advance Regenerative Osteoarthritis Drug into Phase 3

Published on: November 29, 2024 | Last updated: November 29, 2024

Doron Therapeutics Claims Long-Lasting Improvements in Knee Pain and Function

Clinical-stage biotech Doron Therapeutics has successfully raised $11 million in a Series A funding round to advance its efforts in treating degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. This capital is earmarked to initiate a Phase 3 clinical trial for its lead program, MOTYS, an intra-articular biologic drug aimed at alleviating symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Doron Therapeutics originated as a spin-off from an osteoarthritis therapeutics company that initially developed MOTYS as part of its drug pipeline. The formulation is uniquely derived from placental tissue, designed to harness a blend of anti-inflammatory, anti-catabolic, and pro-anabolic effects. This innovative treatment contains growth factors that may significantly reduce inflammation, protect tissues, and stimulate regeneration.

Preclinical and Clinical Evidence of Effectiveness

According to Doron, preclinical studies have indicated that MOTYS is effective in both in vitro and in vivo models, offering a potential alternative to existing therapies such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid. Notably, the company asserts that patients can achieve long-lasting relief from pain following a single injection, with reported effectiveness lasting between 9 to 12 months.

The advancements in Doron’s research were highlighted at this year's Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) World Congress, where data from a Phase 2 clinical trial involving 200 participants with symptomatic knee OA were presented. Participants reported significant improvements in both knee pain and functional capacity over a 26-week treatment period.

Funding and Future Directions

The recent funding round was led by SPRIM Global Investments (SGI), and Doron announced the addition of notable new board members, including Karen Zaderej, who previously served as CEO of Axogen. Under her leadership, Axogen underwent a significant transformation from a start-up into a public entity, successfully advancing a biologically active human tissue graft through BLA submission.

“This is an exciting time for Doron as we progress our lead product into Phase 3 clinical studies. The unmet need for non-surgical interventions in osteoarthritis is immense and growing. We believe MOTYS will allow patients to have reduced pain and regain function, enabling them to return to healthy and active lives.” – Alessandra Pavesio, CEO of Doron Therapeutics

Conclusion and Continued Research

As Doron Therapeutics moves forward with its clinical trials, the implications of MOTYS could be significant. The growing interest in non-surgical interventions for knee osteoarthritis reflects a broader trend in biopharmaceutical development, addressing the pressing need for effective treatments in chronic conditions that affect the quality of life.

For those interested in the advancement of regenerative medicine and its applications in osteoarthritis, staying updated on ongoing research and clinical trial outcomes will be essential for gauging the future landscape of therapeutic options.

References

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