Mechanisms of bone formation at the device/tissue interface: Role of Biomaterial Surface chemistry modification [ 2004 - 2006 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Hala Zreiqat (Principal investigator) ,  Prof David Haynes

Brief description In 1992 300,000 prosthetic devices, artificial hips and knees were implanted into patients in a global market worth $2.1 billion. Growth in this field of medicine has been exceptional with now more than 1 million implants carried out each year. In 1998-99, 38,512 artificial hips and knees were implanted in Australia alone, with approximately 10% of these replacing older, failed implants. Since joint replacements provide great benefits for the patient considerable health funding is required for joint replacements. However, failure of the implants is a major concern to the patient and financially to our health system, especially with the ever increasing life expectancy of our population. The long-and short-term success of an implant depends on the healthy support of the surrounding bone. This study aims to find ways of improving the attachment of healthy bone to the implant by modifying the surface characteristics of the implant. We will modify the surface chemistry of biomaterials with divalent cations, such as magnesium, which is known to play a critical role in bone remodelling and skeletal development. Our goal is to improve the formation of healthy bone that will promote a rapid and permanent fixation of implant into skeletons. This study goes further to study the factors, inside the cell, on the cell surface and secreted by the cell, which promote this attachment. Once these factors are identified, it should be possible to alter implant surfaces in ways to improve stability. In this proposal we will use novel bioceramic coatings and ion beam technologies. This study will not only improve our understanding of the interactions of bone and implant but also identify ways of improving implants to benefit the patient's quality of life and reduce costs in this important heath area

Funding Amount $AUD 489,375.10

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant