SereNeuro Therapeutics, a biotechnology company focused on non-opioid pain therapies, has released new data on its experimental therapy SN101. The therapy uses induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived nociceptors to address chronic osteoarthritis joint pain and aims to preserve joint tissue.
SN101 works by introducing high-purity iPSC-derived peripheral pain-sensing neurons into affected joints. According to Gabsang Lee, scientific co-founder of SereNeuro and professor at Johns Hopkins University, "Our approach utilizes high-purity, iPSC-derived nociceptors (SN101) that effectively function as a sponge for pain factors. By injecting SN101 cells, we counterintuitively relieve pain and halt cartilage degradation."
The company states that these neurons act by sequestering inflammatory pain factors without sending pain signals to the brain. In addition, the cells release regenerative factors that could modify the progression of osteoarthritis.
The presentation from SereNeuro also compares SN101 with other emerging treatments such as Nav 1.8 inhibitors. Unlike single-target ion channel inhibitors, which block only one pathway, SN101 cells express all major pain receptors and ion channels. This allows the therapy to affect multiple pathways involved in pain and inflammation.
SereNeuro further contrasts SN101 with standard treatments like corticosteroids. Dr. Daniël Saris, a member of SereNeuro's Clinical Advisory Board and professor at Mayo Clinic, said: "Current standard-of-care treatments, particularly corticosteroids, provide temporary relief but are known to accelerate cartilage degradation over time, ultimately worsening the disease."
According to the data presented by SereNeuro Therapeutics, SN101 may offer long-term relief from chronic joint pain while preserving joint tissue integrity and avoiding addiction risks associated with some current therapies.
