LIVERPOOL, 18-5-2015 — /EuropaWire/ — The team at Liverpool, in partnership with NHS Blood and Transplant, is part of a £6.3 million funding initiative, supported by Innovate UK and Cell Therapy Catapult, to help further technological development in stem cell therapies in the UK.
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.
“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.
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