Clinical evaluation of freeze-dried secretome (lyosecretome) for osteoarthritis: a controlled trial in dogs and preliminary safety assessment in horses.

The research article examines the effectiveness of a freeze-dried injectable product derived from mesenchymal stem cells (lyosecretome) in treating osteoarthritis in dogs and horses. In dogs, it showed significant improvement in reducing lameness and increased mobility post-exercise, while the proteomic investigation substantiated its effectiveness in inhibiting damaging enzymes and regulating immune response.

Study Participants and Methodology

• The study was conducted on 26 dogs and five horses suffering from spontaneous osteoarthritis. The trial with dogs was randomized, double-blinded, and controlled, ensuring unbiased results, whereas the horses were part of a preliminary safety assessment.
• The treatment administered consisted of hyaluronic acid, either in combination with lyosecretome or mannitol (serving as a control), injected into the joint.
• Clinical evaluations and orthopedic assessments were performed over an 80-day follow-up period, and subjective observations were collected from dog owners through questionnaires.

Treatment Outcomes

• Lyosecretome did not induce any systemic adverse responses in the tested animals, upholding its safety profile.
• In dogs, there was a significant improvement observed post-treatment, particularly evident in reducing lameness. Even though there was no significant reduction in pain, treated dogs were more likely to engage in activities like walking, playing, and moving more easily after exercise.

Proteomic Investigation

• In order to better understand the underlying mechanisms supporting the observed fitness and mobility improvements, a proteomic analysis was conducted.
• This analysis revealed that lyosecretome contains proteins that inhibit protease and hyaluronidase, enzymes that contribute to the breakdown of cartilage – a key symptom of osteoarthritis.
• The proteins in lyosecretome help regulate the immune response and inflammation, which are also crucial in managing osteoarthritis. Furthermore, proteins associated with cartilage regeneration and antioxidant activity were identified, signifying its potential in enhancing joint health.

Significance of the Findings

• The study provides compelling evidence on the potential positive effects of lyosecretome on osteoarthritis, owing to the substantial improvement witnessed in the health and mobility of the treated dogs.
• The proteomic investigation provides an understanding of the potential mechanisms through which lyosecretome achieves its therapeutic outcomes.
• Considering the similarities in osteoarthritis pathophysiology among dogs, horses, and humans, the outcomes of this study may carry significant implications for human osteoarthritis treatment as well.