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.

What is MesemCart

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.

Mikroskopische Aufnahme von mesenchymalen Stromazellen – Grundlage der innovativen MSC-Therapie bei fokalen Knorpeldefekten mit MesemCart von BIONCaRT

Manufacture of MesemCart

Schematische Darstellung einer Nabelschnurspende als Ausgangspunkt für die allogene Zelltherapie mit MesemCart
1.
Umbilical Cord Donation
Illustration der Isolation mesenchymaler Stromazellen aus Nabelschnurgewebe für die weitere Expansion
2.
Isolation of MSCs from Cord Tissue
Darstellung des Expansionsprozesses von MSCs in Zellkulturgefäßen unter GMP-Bedingungen
3.
In Vitro Expansion of Cells
Zellhaltige Suspension in Spritze – finale Formulierung des Zelltherapeutikums MesemCart
4.
Formulation of the Cell Therapeutic
Illustration der intraartikulären Injektion von MesemCart zur minimalinvasiven Behandlung von Knorpeldefekten und Kniegelenkschäden
5.
Minimally Invasive Application by Injection

Mechanism of Action

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

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.

Clinical Trial Progress: Phase I/IIa Study of MesemCart

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.

Recruitment starts in summer 2025

2 Years

Cartilage Damage of the Knee Joint Without Existing Knee Osteoarthritis

A Total of 55 Patients Are Planned

18 to 60 Years

< 35 kg/m2

Let's get in touch!

Would you like to learn more about MesemCart or explore cooperation opportunities? Contact us directly.

Your Contact Person

Foto von Dr. Kristina Thamm - Clinical Trial Management bei BIONCaRT

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