Abu Dhabi advances regenerative medicine with stem cell trial success
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Abu Dhabi has successfully completed a groundbreaking clinical trial for knee osteoarthritis, led by the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi (DoH) in collaboration with Cellcolabs and Burjeel Holdings. The trial marks a significant advancement in cell-based therapies, positioning the emirate as a global hub for innovative medical research.
The trial focused on StromaForte, a stem cell-based therapy developed by Swedish biotech company Cellcolabs. The treatment demonstrated a favourable safety profile and promising therapeutic potential in addressing degenerative joint diseases. The study investigated the regenerative capabilities of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), known for reducing inflammation and aiding tissue repair by triggering the body’s natural healing processes.
In this first phase of the clinical trial, MSCs were extracted from healthy donors aged 18 to 30 and injected into the affected knee joints of patients at Burjeel Medical City and Burjeel Hospital between November 2023 and October 2024. A single dose of 50 million MSCs was administered under ultrasound guidance. The trial was led by Dr. Oussama Chaar, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon and Dr. Veerabahu Muthusamy, Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon.
The results of the Phase I/II trial were described as encouraging. According to the study findings, patients experienced notable reductions in pain as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), along with enhanced mobility and improved quality of life. The treatment was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events recorded and the trial met its primary endpoint of safety, as confirmed by an independent safety monitoring board.
Commenting on the trial’s success, Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi, said, “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," she added.
The trial was facilitated through strategic partnerships with international experts. Cellcolabs, a member of Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 tech ecosystem, collaborated closely with DoH and Burjeel Medical City to deliver this advanced treatment.
Peter Ekstedt, CEO of Cellcolabs UAE, said, “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”.
Prof. Khaled Musallam, Group Chief Research Officer at Burjeel Holdings, also highlighted the broader implications of the research. “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.”
The trial’s completion is expected to catalyse further developments in regenerative medicine, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role in advancing precision healthcare and providing new hope for patients with joint disorders.
