Imagine a joint like a rusty door hinge that's lost its oil and has worn-down metal. This treatment acts like a high-tech lubricant that stops the grinding, kills the pain, and actually helps regrow the worn-out cushioning. It's a single shot that handles three problems at once instead of just masking the pain.
Current osteoarthritis treatments only target one symptom, leaving 80% of patients dependent on addictive painkillers. There is a massive unmet need for a treatment that simultaneously relieves pain, lubricates the joint, and regenerates cartilage.
A triple-action injectable biotherapeutic called Hydrobloc. The project delivered optimized prototypes, in-vitro/in-vivo safety data, and a completed IND/CTA file for Phase 1 trials.
If you are a drug developer dealing with the lack of disease-modifying treatments for OA — this project developed Hydrobloc that regenerates damaged cartilage while providing pain relief. It aims to reduce the 80% of patients who currently rely on addictive pain medications.
If you are a manufacturer dealing with single-action lubricants that don't heal tissue — this project developed a triple-action biotherapeutic that returns the OA joint to 90% of normal physical function.
If you are a clinic dealing with an aging population and obesity epidemic increasing OA cases — this project developed an injectable that offers superior pain relief and lubrication to improve patient mobility.
Based on available project data, the specific cost per dose or market price is not disclosed.
The project specifically optimized the synthesis of the first and second generation prototypes for scalability, repeatability, and reproducibility.
The technology was spun out from an ERC proof of concept grant into Relevium Ltd, indicating proprietary ownership by the SME coordinator.
The project focused on completing an IND/CTA file to apply for approval for Phase 1 clinical trials.
The project ran from 2022 to 2024 to prepare for Phase 1 trials; the subsequent timeline depends on clinical trial results and regulatory approval.
The consortium is lean and highly focused, consisting of 2 partners from 1 country (Ireland). It balances academic research and commercial agility by pairing a university (NUI Galway) with an SME (Relevium Medical Limited), resulting in a 50% industry ratio. This structure is designed for rapid transition from lab validation to a clinical trial dossier.
Contact Relevium Medical Limited in Ireland
Contact us to explore licensing opportunities for Hydrobloc's triple-action technology.
