Biomaterials for musculoskeletal engineering
The musculoskeletal system is a complex interacting network of multiple tissues with highly differing mechanical characteristics, junctions and secretory bodies. Damage to this system occurs frequently as a result of aging, disease aetiology, inherent properties of the cells, substantial loss of tissue (as in the case of limb loss or severe burns) or acute injury.
The Musculoskeletal Engineering research area focusses on the discovery and application of new technologies to improve the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injury and disorders. This includes the role of materials (both synthetic and natural) and the capacity for cells and biologically sourced or biomimetic molecules to support regeneration/repair of tissues, and the development of 3D tissue engineered constructs for investigation as well as supporting regeneration/repair or replacement of tissue. These activities focus on a wide range of applications including implantable technology, soft- and hard-tissue healing, interface healing and platform development.
3D musculoskeletal tissue