Award details

Fibronectin-based biosynthetic devices for spinal repair

Reference	BB/C513893/1
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor John Priestley
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors	Professor Robert Brown
Institution	Queen Mary University of London
Department	Sch of Medicine & Dentistry
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	375,660
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	01/07/2005
End date	30/06/2009
Duration	48 months

Abstract

The key problem in neural tissue repair is the need to over-ride, use or mimic the complex pattern of permissive, non-permissive and inappropriate molecular cues that govern cellular migration and axonal growth in the central nervous system. The overall aim of this multidisciplinary proposal is to utilize bioengineering to fabricate biomimetic substrate driven guides that mimic permissive cues and can be used in spinal injury to overcome the physical or molecular barriers to regeneration. Specifically, we aim to develop novel fibronectin-based implants that are permissive for regeneration of axons and repair of damaged spinal tissue, and which also protect surrounding tissue from further (secondary) injury. In order to accomplish this, we plan four major tasks. Tasks 1,3 focus on development of extrudable fibronectin implants and will be carried out mainly in Prof Robert Brown's group in the Tissue and Repair and Engineering Centre, University College London. Tasks 2-4 focus on evaluating the implants in rodent spinal injury models and will be carried out mainly in Prof John Priestley's group in the Neuroscience Centre at Queen Mary, University in London. The work will comprise: 1) Development of novel fibronectin implants by extrusion from a viscous dope and including the incorporation of regeneration-supporting cells (Schwann cells, olfactory ensheathing cells) within collagen micro-spheres. 2) Application of implants developed in task 1 to rate knife-cut and compression models of spinal injury, and assessment of effects on spinal repair using anatomical and behavioural indicators. 3) Development of novel implants comprising extruded fibronectin within collagen, hyaluronan or fibronectin guidance tubes, with a cell-rich collagen interface. 4) Application of implants developed in task 3 to allow rerouting of a dorsal root to bypass a spinal injury and re-establish the sensory pathway. Although this application focuses on spinal cord repair, the principles established are likely to be generally applicable to repair the central nervous system.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Engineering & Biological Systems (EBS)
Research Topics	Industrial Biotechnology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Regenerative Biology
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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