A 3D scaffold has been molded into the precise shape of a hip joint. The scaffold is covered with cartilage made from stem cells taken from fat beneath the skin. (Credit: Guilak laboratory)
Scientists are developing a way to treat arthritic hips without extensive surgery to replace them. They’ve programmed stem cells to grow new cartilage on a 3D template shaped like the ball of a hip joint.
Scientists are developing a way to treat arthritic hips without extensive surgery to replace them. They’ve programmed stem cells to grow new cartilage on a 3D template shaped like the ball of a hip joint.
What’s more, using gene therapy, they have activated the new cartilage to release anti-inflammatory molecules to fend off a return of arthritis.
The discovery may one day provide an alternative to hip-replacement surgery, particularly in younger patients.
