Purpose: Autologous blood-derived products can target specific inflammatory molecular pathways and offer potential therapeutic benefits for inflammatory pathologies. The Institute of Human Mechanics Laboratory has developed a method for producing an autologous, acellular, blood plasma-derived product—CytoRich—which contains high concentrations of anti-inflammatory (interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, IL-1Ra), anti-catabolic (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, TIMPs 1 and 2), and regenerative (platelet-derived growth factors, PDGF) agents. Methodology: Peripheral blood samples from healthy donors were incubated under different conditions and subsequently analyzed for key inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, catabolic, and regenerative biomarkers. The study quantified IL-1Ra, TIMPs, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). A double-blinded, controlled clinical trial assessed the safety and therapeutic efficacy of CytoRich in osteoarthritis (OA) patients, with clinical outcomes evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) for functional assessment. Results: The highest concentrations of therapeutic molecules targeting inflammatory and degenerative pathways in OA, as well as PDGF, were observed in blood incubated for 24 hours at 37°C. However, the increased production of catabolic MMP9 and pro-inflammatory TNF-α and IL-1 was detected in the final product. We have found that this negative effect could be blocked by adding citric acid making future OA treatment more safe and effective. The double-blinded controlled clinical study confirmed both the safety and efficacy of this novel product. WOMAC and VAS score analyses revealed significant improvements in pain management and functional activities. Conclusions: CytoRich is a safe and effective treatment for soft tissue inflammatory pathologies since it has been reported as source of human bioactive molecules playing a key role in the fundamental processes stimulating tissue repair and regeneration.

Dr. Anthony Michael Galea is a Doctor of Medicine, as well as the Medical Director and Founder of the Institute of Human Mechanics. He is a renowned sports medicine physician and research scientist. He has served as a physician for Canadian National and Olympic teams and as a Doping Control Officer. A pioneer in the development of novel autologous cell-based therapies, innovative medical devices, and targeted biologic delivery systems, Dr. Galea has made significant contributions to regenerative medicine. His laboratory research includes the creation of preclinical models, investigations into inflammatory molecular pathways, the development and testing of novel bioactive therapeutic products, and the planning and execution of in vitro studies and clinical trials. He is the author of numerous peer-reviewed publications, patents, and spiritual books.