Aging Enzyme Inhibitor Rebuilds Knee Cartilage, Could Change Arthritis Therapy

Stanford researchers showed that blocking the aging‑associated enzyme 15-PGDH with a small molecule regenerates hyaline cartilage in aged mice and prevents arthritis after ACL‑like knee injuries. The treatment also prompted cartilage regeneration in human knee tissue samples ex vivo and could be taken as a pill or injected locally; early‑phase trials in muscle weakness suggest safety and activity in humans, with potential to reduce or delay joint replacement if proven in people.