[Reporter Lin Qiaoyan / Taipei] GWOXI Stem Cell (6704) announced that it has been granted a Japanese invention patent for the use of stem cell therapeutics in treating arthritis and the method for preparing such stem cell therapeutics. The patented technology utilizes a closed, sterile 3D culture system to generate stem cell spheroids, which experiments have shown to be more effective than traditional 2D-cultured stem cells in slowing the progression of degenerative arthritis. This innovation holds the potential to become a novel therapeutic strategy for degenerative arthritis in the future.
According to POLAARIS Market Report, the global arthritis market reached USD 7.4 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5%, reaching USD 15.3 billion by 2030. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2019, approximately 365 million people worldwide suffered from knee osteoarthritis, with 70% of these patients over the age of 55. Amid the current aging population, 9.1% of the global population was over 65 in 2019, and in Japan—where the elderly accounted for 28.4% of the population, affecting more than 25 million people—the demand for arthritis treatments is expected to be even greater.
Current treatments for osteoarthritis primarily include pain medications, physical therapy, and hyaluronic acid injections. When pain severely interferes with daily life and causes significant deterioration of joint function, second- and third-line treatments are considered, such as arthroscopic surgery or partial or total knee replacement. However, replaced joints have a limited lifespan, which may necessitate revision surgeries several years later.
This patent utilizes 3D culture technology to generate stem cell spheroids for the treatment of degenerative arthritis. Compared with conventional 2D-cultured cells, these stem cell spheroids not only demonstrate superior therapeutic biochemical markers but also show better functional recovery outcomes. Furthermore, in consideration of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, a closed bioreactor system and three-dimensional porous scaffolds are employed, achieving sterility, multi-batch production, and stable manufacturing, which greatly enhances the practical application value of this technology.
GWOXI Chairman, Mr. Zhuang Mingxi, emphasized that continuous development and innovation are the foundation for profitability and sustainable growth. GWOXI Stem Cell has consistently invested in R&D and has now secured over 100 patents. These patents not only serve as a solid foundation for practical applications but also form the critical basis for future global licensing opportunities. With four stem cell therapeutics already progressing into human clinical trials, GWOXI continues to advance its domestic and international patent strategy, strengthening its position for future international licensing collaborations.