New Treatment Could Reverse Osteoarthritis Within Weeks

A Colorado-led team developed two experimental osteoarthritis treatments: a slow-release injectable drug and a biomaterial implant that recruits the body’s own cells.

In animal studies, both approaches repaired cartilage and bone damage and restored joints within weeks.

ARPA-H is funding the work through its NITRO program, with support that could reach $33.5 million.

If results hold in humans, the therapies could help repair osteoarthritis damage and reduce dependence on pain drugs and joint replacement surgery.