8 February 2017
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Category: Blog
8 February 2017, Comments: 0

Growing bone might sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but thanks to regenerative medicine, it is now a medical reality. South Korean researchers from Ulsan National Institute of Science and technology (UNIST) have developed an advanced technique that utilizes 3-D printed stem cells to increase bone growth and regeneration. This new system has the potential to transform the healing powers of orthopedic doctors in Tampa and around the world.

The Scientific Stem Cell Method

This new bone growth method begins with stem cells derived from human bone marrow, known as mesenchymal stem cells. These mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent cells that can differentiate into bone, cartilage, muscle, and fat cells and self renew indefinitely. Since their discovery, mesenchymal stem cells have become incredibly valuable in regenerative medicine research and trials, especially for orthopedic and musculoskeletal purposes. In fact, it is becoming more common for doctors to treat fractures and other bone injuries with mesenchymal stem cells.

The UNIST researchers combined these bone marrow stem cells with carbon nitride sheets capable of absorbing red light. When the carbon sheets are exposed to red light in a liquid state, they release electrons that trigger the formation of calcium. At the same time, the carbon encourages stem cells to promote mineral formation. Together, this means that growing stem cells on carbon nitride sheets will activate bone growth and regeneration.

According to Professor Young-Kyo Seo, a co-author of the study, “This research has opened up the possibility of developing new medicine that effectively treats skeletal injuries, such as fractures and osteoporosis. It will be a very useful tool for making artificial joints and teeth with the use of 3-D printing. This is an important milestone in the analysis of biomechanical functions needed for the development of biomaterials, including adjuvants for hard tissues such as damaged bones and teeth.”

Though this research took place halfway across the world, the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute is a leading source of stem cell therapy in the Tampa, Florida area for patients eager to heal their bodies without the use of surgery and other risky, often inefficient procedures. To find out more about how your own cells can be used to regenerate your joints and spine, give Regenerative Orthopedic Institute a call today at 813-868-1659.

 

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