Scientists from Johns Hopkins University and SereNeuro Therapeutics have presented an innovative drug derived from stem cells for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Axar.az informs that the results were presented at the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) symposium.

This drug, called SN101, is considered the first non-opioid approach to the treatment of chronic pain.

SN101 is made from induced pluripotent stem cells. Peripheral neurons derived from these cells – nociceptors – do not transmit pain signals to the brain, but instead absorb inflammatory molecules and stimulate the regeneration of cartilage tissue. According to scientists, the drug acts like a "biological sponge": it both reduces pain and protects joints from destruction.

Current treatments – ion channel blockers and corticosteroid injections – target only one pain pathway and provide temporary relief. SN101, however, affects several inflammatory pathways at once, expressing all the main pain receptors.

Scientists believe that this approach could open up a new direction in the treatment of chronic pain without opioids. Long-term opioid use can lead to physical and psychological dependence, which is a serious risk, especially for older patients suffering from osteoarthritis.