The aim of the project is to develop innovative advance therapy product for articular cartilage regeneration. Using novel scaffold fabrication technique we are creating biocompatible and biodegradable 3D polymeric construct containing bioactive molecules and somatic stem cells. Physical and biological properties of the construct are examined in vitro and optimized in order to create most appropriate microenvironment for cartilage extracellular matrix formation. Then pre-clinical evaluation is performed by implanting constructs into knee osteochondral defects created in experimental animals, and by monitoring progression of cartilage regeneration in vivo.
Project funding:
This research project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund according to the 2014–2020 Operational Programme for the European Union Funds’ Investments, under measure’s No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718 activity “Research Projects Implemented by World-class Researcher Groups”
Project results:
The project will produce as a result a 3D polymer construct for the regeneration of articular cartilage and tested both in vitro and in vivo. The results will be published in two scientific publications and a patent application.
Period of project implementation: 2017-12-01 - 2022-06-19
Project coordinator: Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
Project partners: Kaunas University of Technology
