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Sugar could help repair artificial human joints

Researchers at Durham University have developed a sugar-containing polymer coating that can repair damaged artificial joint implants by mimicking the way cartilage works to lubricate human joints. The coating uses water to create a slippery surface, protecting the surfaces from wear and tear.

SourceDurham University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021

Cartilage resurfacing implant reduces pain, restores hip joint function in dogs

A textile-based implant containing cartilage derived from stem cells reduced pain and restored hip joint function to baseline levels in a study of dogs with moderate osteoarthritis. The implant successfully integrated into the hip joints, effectively resurfacing them and allowing the dogs to regain activity levels.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 15, 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis treated with implanted cells that release drug

Researchers have genetically engineered cells that can deliver a biologic drug in response to inflammation, reducing inflammation and preventing bone damage in mice with rheumatoid arthritis. This approach could provide personalized treatments for arthritis patients, limiting side effects associated with current therapies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Nasal cartilage relieves osteoarthritis in the knee

Researchers from the University of Basel have found that nasal cartilage cells can withstand chronic inflammatory conditions and counteract inflammation in osteoarthritis. The approach involves using engineered cartilage tissue to repair or replace damaged joints, offering a promising alternative to joint prostheses.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

U of A researchers successfully use 3-D 'bioprinting' to create nose cartilage

A team of University of Alberta researchers has discovered a way to use 3-D bioprinting technology to create functional cartilage in just four weeks, which can be used to restore nasal features in skin cancer patients. This method reduces the risk of complications and provides a more precise solution for reconstructive surgery.

Researchers use lab-grown tissue grafts for personalized joint replacement

A multidisciplinary team has bioengineered living cartilage-bone TMJ grafts using the recipient's own cells, demonstrating effectiveness in a clinically sized swine model. The grafts integrated well with surrounding tissues and provided biological and mechanical function similar to the native joint.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 14, 2020

The injury rate of dominant leg of soccer players is identical with the non-dominant one

A recent study published in Sports Medicine - Open reveals that professional soccer players experience asymptomatic cartilage and meniscus damages in their knee joints, regardless of age or career duration. The dominant leg's condition is identical to the non-dominant one, with certain tissue changes more common in experienced athletes.

SourceSechenov University·JournalSports Medicine - Open·DateJun 22, 2020

Combinatorial screening approach opens path to better-quality joint cartilage

A collaborative research team has developed a multi-component biomaterial-based screening approach that identifies material compositions and mechanical stimuli enabling human stem cells to differentiate into cells capable of generating higher-quality articular cartilage. The study uses high-throughput screening with multiple combinatio...

Cartilage cells, chromosomes and DNA preserved in 75-million-year-old baby duck-billed dinosaur

Researchers have discovered remarkably well-preserved cartilage cells linked by an intercellular bridge and containing internal dark structures morphologically consistent with chromosomes. The team also found evidence of original molecules preserved in the dinosaur's cartilage, including a reaction to antibodies of Collagen II.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 28, 2020

A better way to rebuild cartilage

A team of scientists has created a new class of 3D-printed biomaterials that can direct the regeneration of functional tissue in damaged cartilage. The materials are designed to provide cells with the exact cues they need to form tissue organized in the same way as natural cartilage.

Drug combo reverses arthritis in rats

A combination of two experimental drugs has reversed osteoarthritis in rats, with improved cartilage thickness and reduced cell death. The treatment may potentially translate to human use, offering a promising therapy for millions of adults affected by the disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProtein & Cell·DateJan 21, 2020

Richtsmeier receives anatomist's science award

Richtsmeier investigates the role of developmental processes in morphological variation, using mouse models to study craniofacial growth patterns and the influence of genetic variants on disease phenotypes. Her current research focuses on the chondrocranium, the first skull to form during embryonic development.

Space travel and your joints

A recent study found early signs of cartilage breakdown in mice exposed to microgravity for 30 days. The researchers theorize that the lack of gravity's biomechanical forces leads to joint unloading, causing cartilage degradation. This could have significant implications for future astronauts on long-term space missions.

Doing more with less

Researchers at University of Freiburg discover that reducing cell number in MSC clusters activates intrinsic differentiation program, prompting cartilage cell formation. Cell membrane proteins Caveolin-1 and N-Cadherin play key role in chondrogenic differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateJan 14, 2019