The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has successfully completed a pioneering clinical trial in collaboration with Swedish biotech firm Cellcolabs and Burjeel Holdings, marking a major milestone in the use of regenerative medicine to treat knee osteoarthritis.
The trial evaluated StromaForte, a novel stem cell-based therapy developed by Cellcolabs, which demonstrated a favourable safety profile and significant therapeutic promise for patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis. The therapy’s success underscores the growing role of cell-based treatments in addressing degenerative joint diseases.
The study focused on the regenerative potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), a class of stem cells known for their ability to reduce inflammation and support tissue repair. Naturally found in the human body, MSCs act as biological mediators, identifying injury or stress sites and activating the body’s own healing mechanisms.
As part of the trial, patients received injections of MSCs derived from rigorously screened healthy donors aged between 18 and 30. Administered directly into the affected knee joints, the aim was to assess the safety of the treatment while relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting cartilage regeneration—potentially offering a non-surgical alternative for osteoarthritis patients.
The clinical trial was led by Dr. Oussama Chaar, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, and Dr. Veerabahu Muthusamy, Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon. Conducted at Burjeel Medical City and Burjeel Hospital from November 2023 to October 2024, the trial involved a single dose of 50 million MSCs delivered through ultrasound-guided injection. Phase I/II of the trial met its primary endpoint of safety, as confirmed by an independent safety monitoring board.
Patients reported notable reductions in pain levels, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), along with improved mobility and quality of life. Most importantly, the treatment was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported.
MRI scans were conducted to further evaluate the therapy’s impact, and detailed findings are expected to be shared at Abu Dhabi Global Health Week in April 2025.
Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, highlighted, “The successful completion of this clinical trial is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s robust regulatory oversight and its growing appeal as a hub for cutting-edge medical research. At the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, we are committed to fostering a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates innovation while ensuring the highest standards of safety and ethics. By prioritising cell and gene therapies and regenerative medicine, we are paving the way for transformative treatments that improve patient outcomes and quality of life. These efforts reaffirm Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in pioneering health innovations and shaping the future of precision medicine.”
The clinical research was facilitated by close partnerships between DoH, Burjeel Medical City, and Cellcolabs, which is part of Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 global tech ecosystem.
Peter Ekstedt, CEO of Cellcolabs UAE, commented, “This clinical trial is a major milestone in Abu Dhabi’s journey to becoming a global leader in regenerative medicine. At Cellcolabs, we are proud to contribute with our expertise in stem cells, to bring innovative, evidence-based solutions to patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis. By combining DOH’s commitment to healthcare innovation with our advanced stem cell technology and know-how, we are paving the way for safer, more effective, and non-surgical treatments that can change the lives of thousands of patients suffering from OA in UAE.”
Prof. Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer at Burjeel Holdings, added, “The success of the StromaForte trial is an exemplary showcase of Abu Dhabi’s growing biotechnology sector. With continued research and development, stem cell therapy could transform osteoarthritis treatment, offering patients a non-surgical option for pain relief and improved mobility.”
