Smart Piezoelectric Bio-based Osteochondral Construct as a Model for Drug Testing and Implant for Joint Defects - SMARTPIEZO

Project summary

Needs: Joint defects (JD) from trauma, osteoarthritis, arthritis, or cancer represent a major challenge in healthcare due to poor treatment options and limited regeneration. Objectives: Project aims to develop a bio-based, piezoelectric osteochondral construct sPiezoBio for JD repair and drug testing. The primary objectives are: to develop piezoelectric and bio-based materials; design two osteochondral repair products; overcome current limitations in JD repair materials by creating multifunctional, biomimetic constructs; enhance osteogenesis and chondrogenesis through ultrasound and mechanical stimulation. Applications: The sPiezoBio can be applied in JD treatment, offering solutions for JD filling. They will also serve as in-vitro osteochondral tissue models for drug and treatment testing. Impact&Benefits: sPiezoBio promotes cellular growth and regeneration. It has the translational potential to improve patient outcomes, advance JD treatment, and accelerate drug development.