Center for Bone Biology

Osteoconductive biomaterials for bone regeneration

We are developing Injectable, weight-bearing or void filling, therapeutic composites that promote bone regeneration in sites of compromised tissue.  This work involves a number of disciplines such as chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, biology, and surgical medicine.  The current aims are as follows

·       Synthesize bone/poly(ester urethane) composite foams with an elastic modulus similar to that of trabecular or cortical bone

·       Characterize the osteoconductive potential of composite foams in vitro and in vivo

·       Assess the performance of the composite foams in cadaveric models of spine fractures

·       Develop osteoinductive strategies that will enhance the ability of the composite foams to regenerate bone

Supported by the Department of Defense

		Composite showing regions of cellular penetration, active bone forming surfaces with rows of osteoblasts and osteoid, and newly formed bone
		SEM image of a polyurethane foam
		Live/dead staining shows that MC3T3 cells are viable within the foam