Newton Fund - Osteochondral Scaffold Innovation for Early Intervention of Osteoarthritis

Implants that can help osteoarthritis patients to repair damaged or diseased cartilage have had limited success to date and are only available to repair small areas of cartilage damage. University College London has invented a novel biomimetic osteochondral scaffold that replicates the properties of natural cartilage and can be shaped to fit the joint more effectively, encouraging the formation of new cartilage in a biomechanical
environment that is conducive for cartilage formation.

This project will analyse the scope of the final product, understanding the limitation of the scaffolds and further developing platform technology within the commercial environment to accelerate translation for clinical and economic benefit. It is expected that successful delivery of this program will lead to the development of a scaffold that can be used clinically in a one-step surgical procedure for treatment of large cartilage defects in OA patients. As a result, the quality of life of individuals with osteochondral defects, which lead to OA will be improved allowing a pain free, more active lifestyle.