Combinatorial Helper-Dependent Adenoviral Gene Therapy for Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common clinical condition with a prevalence of 40 million individuals in the U.S. More than 80% of those over the age of 55 have radiographic evidence of OA. Among those individuals, 30% present with significant pain or disabilities. However, current treatment of osteoarthritis is limited to life style modification, analgesics and invasive procedures such as joint replacement surgery in severe cases. First, we aim to identify the most efficient gene therapy approach to joint cells (both synovium and cartilage) for transferring genes. Second, we will test molecules identified by us that have cartilage protective functions during OA development. Finally, we plan to evaluate a gene therapy approach in a large animal model, which might provide insight into possible outcomes of human clinical trials. Our specific approach is to delivery combinations of genes that will protect cartilage as well as block inflammation only when inflammation is present to delay OA progression. This research might lead to the development of novel, more efficient and long-lasting new treatments for OA.