Levicept's NT-3 inhibitor promising for moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis

Levicept has shared encouraging outcomes from a phase 2 study of its neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) inhibitor, LEVI-04, in patients experiencing moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis. This mid-stage trial involved over 500 participants who suffer from knee osteoarthritis, a common condition affecting more than 32.5 million adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the gradual deterioration of cartilage that cushions the ends of bones. This wear and tear leads to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and loss of flexibility. Current treatments focus on pain relief but often come with side effects. LEVI-04 aims to provide effective pain management while avoiding the risk of rapidly progressive osteoarthritis (RPOA) associated with anti-NGF antibodies. It also retains the beneficial trophic effects of neurotrophins.

The study successfully met its primary objective, showing a mean reduction in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain score of more than 50% across all three doses of LEVI-04 when compared to a placebo. Notably, these results were statistically significant. Additionally, the drug demonstrated superiority in all secondary endpoints at week 17. This included improvements in WOMAC subscales for function and joint stiffness, daily pain scores, and crucially, there was no increased incidence of RPOA.

Philip Conaghan, the principal investigator and director of NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, remarked on the promising aspects of the trial. He noted that LEVI-04 has shown the potential to safely leverage the analgesic properties of NT-3 inhibition. If these results are confirmed in phase 3 trials, LEVI-04 could signify a significant advancement for osteoarthritis treatment, potentially benefiting millions of patients and addressing other pain conditions as well.

Osteoarthritis is a global concern, affecting 595 million people, or 7.6% of the population, in 2020. Recognizing the widespread impact of this condition, the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated a collaboration last year with the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis, and Musculoskeletal Diseases. This five-year agreement aims to develop a comprehensive roadmap addressing bone health and aging.

The collaboration's goals include formulating a public health strategy and action plan to prevent fractures among the elderly and enhance the coverage and quality of health services. This initiative underscores the importance of addressing osteoarthritis and related musculoskeletal conditions as a significant public health priority. By improving the management and prevention of these conditions, the collaboration seeks to improve the quality of life for older adults worldwide.