Swansea University researchers have discovered a novel bone graft alternative inspired by coral that promotes faster healing. But also dissolves naturally in the body once the repair is completed.
This innovative study, conducted by Dr. Zhidao Xia of Swansea University Medical School in conjunction with colleagues from the Faculty of Science and Engineering and many other collaborators, is published in the prestigious journal Bioactive Materials.
Bone defects resulting from non-healing injuries, tumors, and fractures are among the most common causes of disability globally. Traditionally, clinicians replace these gaps with either the patient’s bone (autograft) or donor bone (allograft). However, these procedures are fraught with difficulties, including a limited supply, the risk of infection, and ethical issues.
The team created a biomimetic material that matches the porosity structure and chemical makeup of a coral-converted bone graft substitute. They used innovative 3D technology to do so. Moreover, biomimetic material also integrates seamlessly with human bone. In addition, provides numerous outstanding benefits, including promoting new bone growth in about 2-4 weeks. In addition, complete integration occurs when the substance fades naturally within 6–12 months of increased regeneration, leaving only healthy bone. Moreover, it is also cost-effective—Unlike actual coral or donor bone, this material is easily produced in huge quantities.
In preclinical in vivo trials, the substance had astonishing results. It completely healed bone lesions in 3-6 months and even prompted the development of a new layer of strong, healthy cortical bone in 4 weeks.
Dr. Xia explained
Our invention bridges the gap between synthetic substitutes and donor bone. We’ve shown that it’s possible to create a material that is safe, effective, and scalable to meet global demand. This could end the reliance on donor bone and tackle the ethical and supply issues in bone grafting.
Innovations like this not only promise to improve patient quality of life but also to lower healthcare costs and create new prospects for the biomedical industry.
