Intra-articular Allocetra in Osteoarthritis of the of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a critical synovial joint enabling jaw movement. TMJ osteoarthritis results from factors such as disc dislocation, trauma, overuse, or developmental anomalies, affecting all joint structures, including cartilage, synovium, bone, and ligaments. Key pathological features include chondrocyte loss, extracellular matrix degradation, and subchondral bone remodeling. TMJ-OA progresses gradually through phases of activity and remission, ultimately leading to a burnout phase.

Allocetra is an immunomodulatory cell-based therapy consisting of allogeneic peripheral blood mononuclear cells that have been modified to be engulfed by macrophages and reprogram them into their homeostatic state.

This study is a single center, open lable safety and initial efficacy trial to assess intra-articular administration of Allocetra in patients with TMJ-OA who have not responded sufficiently to conventional therapies.

The study is comprised of two stages, during which a single treatment of Allocetra, will be administered via intra-articular injection into the target temporomandibular joint.

Patients will be followed for up to a year following treatment.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosed with temporomandibular OA in the target TMJ.
• Inflammatory findings by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Acceptable blood workup results (CBC, electrolytes, kidney and liver function).

Exclusion criteria

• Prior intra-articular injection to the target TMJ within 3 months prior to treatment.
• Any significant injury or surgery to the target TMJ.
• Evidence of active local infection in the vicinity of the target TMJ or clinically significant active infection anywhere in the body.
• Patients with a known neurological disease or rheumatic condition, a major medical condition that would affect quality of life and influence the results of the study, or other pain of unknown etiology.