An autoimmune joint disease meets Th1/Th2 rebalancing
Quick answer
RASTEM inj. is EHL Bio's autologous adipose MSC therapy, given as repeat intravenous infusions for moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis. Preclinical work is complete and phase 1 preparation is under way. The concept is to use MSC immunomodulation to reduce autoimmune joint destruction.
Rheumatoid arthritis differs from osteoarthritis in that the immune system attacks the joint lining, producing swelling, warmth, morning stiffness over 30 minutes and, if uncontrolled, permanent bone erosion. Standard care is DMARDs and biologics.
The therapeutic idea is restoring Th1/Th2 T-cell balance and boosting regulatory immune cells, thereby damping the inflammatory signals that erode joints — the same mechanism EHL describes across its other autoimmune programmes.
EHL also holds patents covering cells or culture media treated with a 15-PGDH inhibitor for rheumatoid arthritis, an approach that raises PGE2 expression with anti-inflammatory effect.
Advice for Thai patients: do not self-discontinue DMARDs or biologics while waiting for cell therapy — uncontrolled disease is when joints are destroyed fastest. Have a rheumatologist assess first.
Similar cell type, different goal. RA uses systemic IV infusion for immune modulation; osteoarthritis usually uses intra-articular injection aimed at cartilage repair.
Case by case. Most studies define concomitant medication rules and washout periods explicitly.
Not established in humans. Current evidence is preclinical and mechanistic; clinical results are still needed.
It remains investigational, so access depends on trial inclusion criteria and Korean institutional approval; enquire through the hospital's international patient desk.
Last updated: 2026-08-28 · This content is for information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before making treatment decisions.
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