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New research could help us deliver genes for new bone formation |
| TheallIneed.com/NC&T/BBSRC |
The new research will use tiny nanoscopic systems that cross the surface of a stem cell and then deliver the genes into that prompt the cell to turn into a bone cell.
Professor Richard Oreffo at the University of Southampton and Dr Martin Garnett and Professor Kevin Shakesheff at the University of Nottingham are developing scaffolds to act as a coating around the nanoscopic gene delivery systems. The scaffold controls the release of the gene delivery systems to generate the prolonged formation and development of bone tissue.
The research teams are using the scaffold technology to develop therapeutic applications. They are investigating the most efficient and effective combinations of genes and delivery scaffold to trigger the highly complex process of bone formation. The technique, if successful, could provide a new source of bone tissue for orthopaedic procedures.
 | | Demonstration that polymer complexes with foreign DNA are not toxic to the cells. Human bone cell line (SaOS) stained for living (green) and dead (red) cells 48 hours after addition of the polymer/DNA complex. All cells are living and demonstrate little or no toxic effects form addition of the polymer / DNA complex. (Photo: BBSRC, University of Nottingham and University of Southampton) |
Professor Richard Oreffo, who is leading the team at the University of Southampton, said, "The key to the process is careful selection of the right genes for the job, and then identifying the right scaffold delivery mechanism to deliver the genes to enough stem cells to initiate the bone formation process. This method of gene delivery could provide significant healthcare benefits as trauma, degenerative disease and bone loss with old age all lead to patients needing orthopaedic procedures that require new bone.
Professor Oreffo added "It is important that we explore the potential of new methods and biotechnologies to help meet the healthcare needs of an ageing population. Although research such as this is currently a number of years from being available to patients it is important that fundamental research is carried out so we can develop the knowledge that can lead to clinical applications."
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