RESUMEN
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent condition characterized by the progressive deterioration of the entire joint and has emerged as a prominent contributor to disability on a global scale. The nature of the disease and its impact on joint function significantly limit mobility and daily activities, highlighting its substantial influence on patients' overall well-being. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is a heterogenous, autologous cell product, containing mesenchymal stem cells, derived from the patient's subcutaneous adipose tissue with demonstrated safety and efficacy in the treatment of KOA patients. We conducted a single-arm, open-label, multisite, FDA approved clinical study in Kellgren-Lawrence severity grade 2-4 KOA patients. The cellular product was manufactured from patient-specific lipoaspirate in a centrally located FDA-compliant manufacturing facility. Twenty-nine subjects were treated with a quality tested single intra-articular injection of GMP manufactured SVF. Adverse events, laboratory values, vital signs, and physical examination findings were monitored during the study period. Robust tolerability, without any substantial safety issues, was demonstrated. Knee pain and function, assessed through the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), demonstrated notable improvements. These positive benefits persisted for up to 12 months, and the majority of participants expressed satisfaction. SVF from each patient was stored in a liquid nitrogen freezer for future clinical treatments. Unique to this study of autologous cells is the shipment of lipoaspirate from the clinic to a central FDA-compliant manufacturing facility for cleanroom-controlled manufacturing. The cell product characterization data demonstrate that this method produces an equivalent product in terms of cell count and viability with the added benefit of further quality assurance testing, including sterility, endotoxin, and flow cytometry, before patient administration. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT04043819.