Regenerative Medicines: Bone and Joint Applications

Report Highlights

• The total U.S. market for bone and joint applications of regenerative medicine is projected to rise at an average annual growth rate of 8.5% to reach $1.4 billion in 2007.
• Regenerative medicine refers to technologies that repair or replace diseased or defective tissues or organs. The main types of regenerative medicine utilize products naturally occurring in the body, such as genes and proteins (antibodies, growth factors, hormones); cells and tissues; embryonic stem cells, and biomaterials. At present, most regenerative medicines on the market fall into the first category and include protein-based drugs and therapies containing human cells. However, there are a few products based on tissue engineering. This technology, which promises to be the most exciting and fastest growing sector of regenerative medicine in the near future, is the primary focus of this report. Tissue engineering technologies discussed include matrices and scaffolds, in vitro and in vivo technologies, and novel materials, which include those utilizing nanotechnology (atomic-scale engineering) of inorganic substances that meld with human tissues.

INTRODUCTION

Regenerative medicine refers to technologies that repair or replace diseased or defective tissues or organs. The main types of regenerative medicine utilize products naturally occurring in the body, such as genes and proteins (antibodies, growth factors, hormones); cells and tissues; embryonic stem cells, and biomaterials. At present, most regenerative medicines on the market fall into the first category and include protein-based drugs and therapies containing human cells. However, there are a few products based on tissue engineering. This technology, which promises to be the most exciting and fastest growing sector of regenerative medicine in the near future, is the primary focus of this report. Tissue engineering technologies discussed include matrices and scaffolds, in vitro and in vivo technologies, and novel materials, which include those utilizing nanotechnology (atomic-scale engineering) of inorganic substances that meld with human tissues.

This report focuses on the bone- and joint-related applications of and markets for the various types of regenerative medicine currently available and projected to be introduced during the forecast period (2001 to 2007). Market drivers discussed include an increase in diseases and disorders that will benefit from these products, primarily arthritis, osteoporosis, and various types of bone and joint trauma (hip fractures, knee injuries, etc.); increasing use of nonautograft products by physicians; and innovative devices that incorporate bone- and cartilage-growth stimulating agents in a regenerative appliance. Products discussed include bone and cartilage grafting and regenerative products derived from autologous, allogeneic and synthetic sources as well as electronic bone growth stimulators and regenerative cartilage products. Profiles of leading and emerging companies in the bone and joint regenerative medicine markets are provided, along with analysis of the current and future positioning of their products and es in this active and rapidly changing market.

CONTRIBUTION OF THE STUDY AND FOR WHOM

The aim of this report is to provide an overview of regenerative medicine products available and emerging for the treatment of diseases and disorders of the bones and joints.

The information and analysis presented are an important asset in decision-making for managers involved in development, marketing, market research, product development, mergers and acquisitions, licensing, management, investment banking and deal creation, and to consultants to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current markets for regenerative medicine products for bones and joints, relevant applications, and the potential of products in development.

STUDY SCOPE AND FORMAT

The scope of the study is worldwide. The Overview section provides a background of the demographics underlying the market for bone and joint products, a definition of regenerative medicine and the technologies involved, and a discussion of regenerative products in development for applications other than bones and joints.

The Applications section describes the leading bone and joint diseases and disorders applicable to regenerative technologies, including incidence and current methods of treatment.

The section on Products provides extensive descriptions and analysis (including comparative analysis) of regenerative products used to treat bone and joint disorders as well as discussion of products in development.

The section on Industry provides a discussion of regulatory issues affecting regenerative medicine products as well as recent bankruptcies among companies supplying regenerative products and the reasons for their financial difficulties.

The Company Profiles section provides a concise exploration of leading and emerging companies in the area of regenerative products for bones and joints, including product introductions, patents, and overall strategies.

METHODOLOGY

The base year for this study is 2002. Figures are based on revenue figures at the manufacturer's level and are projected at 2002 dollar values, that is, inflation is not computed into the projection figures.

Information to prepare this study was derived from information provided by chief executive officers, marketing strategists, research executives and others at leading companies involved in the regenerative medicine market. Data was accessed from government agencies and regulatory bodies that monitor and/or regulate medical devices. Searches of secondary material such as company annual reports and 10Ks, journal articles, prospectus assessments, government resources and data from healthcare institutions were also conducted.

INFORMATION SOURCES

The information and analysis presented in this report are based on an extensive survey of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries as well as a detailed examination of published literature and reports obtained from regulatory authorities, medical research institutions, pharmaceutical trade associations and national and world health organizations.