Desert Spine & Sports Physicians to Lead Pivotal Phase III Clinical Trial of Mesoblast’s REXLEMESTROCEL-L for Chronic Low Back Pain
Scottsdale, AZ – Sept 8, 2025 – Desert Spine & Sports Physicians (DSSP) announced today its critical role as a lead clinical partner in a groundbreaking Phase III trial of REXLEMESTROCEL-L, Mesoblast’s investigational regenerative therapy for chronic low back pain caused by degenerative disc disease (DDD). This pivotal study aims to evaluate a novel, minimally invasive treatment that could transform care for millions of patients living with persistent back pain.
Chronic low back pain from DDD is one of the most common and disabling conditions worldwide, often leaving patients with few long-term solutions beyond temporary symptom management. The REXLEMESTROCEL-L therapy combines mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs) with 1% hyaluronic acid, delivered via a single injection directly into the spinal disc. The therapy is designed to reduce inflammation, stimulate tissue repair, and provide durable relief by targeting the underlying disease process.
DSSP’s Role in the Trial
The study is being conducted at Desert Spine & Sports Physicians by Dr. Paul Pannozzo, Principal Investigator. Participants will undergo a structured 24-month program consisting of an initial screening phase, a single intradiscal injection, and follow-up visits. A minimum of seven visits are planned across screening, treatment, and follow-up phases.
“Patients with degenerative disc disease often exhaust conservative care options without achieving lasting relief,” said Dr. Paul Pannozzo, lead investigator at DSSP. “This study represents an important opportunity to evaluate a therapy that doesn’t just mask pain but targets the underlying biology of disc degeneration.”
“Being part of this pivotal trial underscores our commitment to advancing patient-centered, evidence-based care,” added Dr. Susan Sorosky, Chief Medical Officer, DSSP. “We are proud to help bring a regenerative solution forward that could reshape how chronic low back pain is treated.”
A Critical Partnership with Mesoblast
Mesoblast (Nasdaq: MESO), the developer of REXLEMESTROCEL-L, is sponsoring the trial as part of its mission to pioneer cell-based therapies that address large, unmet medical needs. By partnering with leading centers like DSSP, Mesoblast ensures the therapy is evaluated in real-world clinical environments that combine academic rigor with patient-focused care.
Looking Ahead
If successful, REXLEMESTROCEL-L could become the first disease-modifying treatment for chronic low back pain due to DDD, offering long-lasting relief for millions of patients and reducing the reliance on invasive surgical interventions.
About Desert Spine and Sports Physicians
Desert Spine and Sports Physicians is a leading medical practice in Arizona, providing a full spectrum of spine and pain management services. Our team of experienced specialists offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options for a wide range of conditions, focusing on non-surgical solutions that restore mobility and improve quality of life. With a commitment to compassionate care, Desert Spine and Sports Physicians is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term pain relief and functional recovery. For more information, please visit www.desertspine.com.
About Mesoblast
Mesoblast Limited (Nasdaq: MESO) is a global leader in allogeneic cellular medicines. The company’s proprietary technology platform is based on specialized cells called mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs), which are being developed to treat a broad range of inflammatory diseases.
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Andrea Tillman
AM Consulting
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Email: amorgan26@outlook.com