Liverpool: A company is developping stem cell
technologies that have shown potential in repairing damaged tissue in
the knee. Professor Hollander and colleagues launched the company, Azellon,
to produce stem cell therapies for treatment of damaged fibrous tissues
in the knee, called meniscal cartilage. Using Cell Bandage technology,
the team has shown encouraging test results from combining bone marrow
stem cells with a special membrane that helps deliver cells to the
injured site.
Meniscal cartilage in the knee is a shock absorber that helps cushion
the knee against stresses, but it is commonly torn in sports injuries,
causing pain and swelling. To avoid removing the tissue, scientists are
looking at new ways to use adult stem cells, non-specialised cells that
can grow extensively, to turn into many different kinds of specialised
cells, targeted at repairing damage in specific areas of the body.
Funding will allow scientists to improve product and manufacturing
processes, with the aim of introducing the technology onto the market
for effective commercial use in the near future.
Professor Hollander, Head of the University’s Institute of Integrative Biology, said: “With this new funding we aim to improve the special membrane so that it is easier for surgeons to implant in the knee.
“We are looking at using bone marrow stem cells from a single donor
in order to provide a more consistent quality product. It is also
important that we develop new ways of freezing the Cell Bandage so it
can be stored ready for use.”
The team is expecting to announce the results of their first clinical
trial in this field, later this year. The new funding will support the
launch of a second trial using the new and improved technology.