| EPSRC Reference: |
GR/S75819/01 |
| Title: |
Intelligent Microgels as Injectable Tissue Scaffolds for Intervertebral Disc Repair: A Feasibility Study |
| Principal Investigator: |
Saunders, Professor B |
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| Department: |
Materials |
| Organisation: |
University of Manchester, The |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research (Pre-FEC) |
| Starts: |
01 March 2004 |
Ends: |
31 August 2005 |
Value (£): |
59,114
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
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This 12-month study will establish the feasibility of using microgel particles to repair damaged intervertebral discs (IVDs). A microgel particle is a swollen polymer particle. Degeneration of the IVD results in a decrease of IVD height and is a common target in the treatment of low back pain. Currently, there is no treatment available to reverse the degeneration process. Our mathematical analysis shows that microgels are capable of supporting biomechanical loads and increasing IVD height within the body. The key aims of this study are to prepare and characterise microgel dispersions and to measure compression strain versus load data for IVDs containing the microgel dispersions. The microgels will be prepared and their swelling behaviour investigated at UMIST. Strain versus load measurements will be performed using a purpose built IVD compression loading instrument at the University of Manchester. These data when combined with our mathematical model will allow full predictions for IVD height within the body. A successful outcome could enable a relatively simple treatment for chronic low back pain. This could have a significant effect on the economy and social services. The project is an example of physical and medical science collaborating at the Life Science Interface to produce a novel solution to an important problem.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.man.ac.uk |