Researchers at Duke University developed a gel-based cartilage substitute that is stronger and more durable than natural cartilage, offering a potential new treatment for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
And although it is not available commercially, human clinical trials have started. For information on the clinical trials available, you may comment below or contact the YouRise team.
This hydrogel, made from water-absorbing polymers, is designed to withstand more force and resist wear better than natural cartilage. The gel, developed with a polymer called polyvinyl alcohol and cellulose fibers, mimics the strength and flexibility of real cartilage.
Unlike traditional knee replacements, this hydrogel could offer a less invasive solution for patients, particularly younger ones, by replacing only the damaged cartilage rather than the entire joint. The team also addressed challenges in securely attaching the gel to the joint, ensuring it stays in place and functions effectively without damaging surrounding tissue. This breakthrough could significantly improve treatment options for osteoarthritis sufferers, providing a durable and effective alternative to knee replacement surgery.
CITATION: “A Synthetic Hydrogel Composite With a Strength and Wear Resistance Greater Than Cartilage,” Jiacheng Zhao, Huayu Tong, Alina Kirillova, William Koshut, Andrew Malek, Natasha Brigham, Matthew Becker, Ken Gall, and Benjamin Wiley. Advanced Functional Materials, Aug. 4, 2022. DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202205662
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