Allogeneic Cell Therapy for Cartilage Defects with MesemCart
Our cell therapy MesemCart introduces a completely new approach to treating focal cartilage defects of the knee joint. The therapy is currently being evaluated for safety and tolerability in a clinical trial.
MesemCart is a cell therapy based on mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for the treatment of focal cartilage defects in the knee joint. The MSCs are derived from the umbilical cord tissue of healthy newborns and expanded under controlled cell culture conditions. The therapy aims to cover the cartilage defect, promote the regeneration of hyaline cartilage, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
Unlike other methods, MesemCart does not rely on the patient’s own cells. Instead, it uses high-quality allogeneic MSCs – biologically active, readily available, and without the need for complex cell harvesting procedures from the patient. This opens up new possibilities for more efficient and less invasive treatment of cartilage damage.

Manufacture of MesemCart

1.
Umbilical Cord Donation

2.
Isolation of MSCs from Cord Tissue

3.
In Vitro Expansion of Cells

4.
Formulation of the Cell Therapeutic

5.
Minimally Invasive Application by Injection
01
Transplantation of the Cells into the Cartilage Defect
The MSCs are applied directly into the cartilage defect in combination with a collagen-based carrier matrix – ensuring optimal placement and support for tissue regeneration.
02
Release of Paracrine Factors
MSCs release paracrine signals – including anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth-promoting factors – that positively influence the joint environment and help suppress inflammation.
03
Cell Adhesion, Migration and Proliferation
The MSCs bind to the matrix structure, proliferate, and actively interact with the surrounding cartilage tissue – providing an essential stimulus for the regenerative response.
04
Regeneration of Hyaline Cartilage
The matrix gradually integrates into the body’s own tissue. At the same time, the biological activity of the MSCs promotes the formation of functional hyaline cartilage.
Advantages Over Autologous Procedures
- Utilization of the Chondrogenic Potential of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
- Treatment For All Patients (Including Those Over 50 Years Old)
- Only One Operation Necessary
- No Costly Certification of the Clinic as a Collection Center Required
- Utilization of the Secreted Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Relieving Active Substances
- Cell Transplant Immediately Available
- No Harvest Morbidity
Indication
Focal, full-thickness, symptomatic cartilage defects of the knee joint grade III and IV according to ICRS classification and osteochondritis dissecans grade II and IV according to ICRS-OCD classification.
MesemCart is currently undergoing an approved prospective, multicenter Phase I/IIa clinical trial to assess safety, tolerability, and early signs of efficacy in patients with focal cartilage defects of the knee.
If you are interested in participating in future studies, please feel free to contact us.
Start of Study
Recruitment starts in summer 2025
Duration of Study
2 Years
Indication
Cartilage Damage of the Knee Joint Without Existing Knee Osteoarthritis
Number of Participants
A Total of 55 Patients Are Planned
Age Group
18 to 60 Years
BMI
< 35 kg/m2
Let's get in touch!
Your Contact Person

Dr. Kristina Thamm
Clinical Trial Management
study@bioncart.com
+49 (0) 160 769 745 3