Biological, Functional And Radiographic Evaluation Of Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$307,400.00
Summary
We will test the hypothesis that autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and extensor realignment produces superior clinical, biological and radiographic results when compared with conventional treatment of realignment and debridement. We will specifically address the following aims: 1. Quantify the clinical outcome of ACI compared to the traditionally used treatment of debridement through the use of functional evaluation in a blinded randomised controlled clinical trial; 2. Evaluate the radio ....We will test the hypothesis that autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and extensor realignment produces superior clinical, biological and radiographic results when compared with conventional treatment of realignment and debridement. We will specifically address the following aims: 1. Quantify the clinical outcome of ACI compared to the traditionally used treatment of debridement through the use of functional evaluation in a blinded randomised controlled clinical trial; 2. Evaluate the radiographic changes in the patellofemoral joint that occur as a result of ACI, using high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify the regeneration of hyaline articular cartilage; 3. Using the new technique of confocal arthroscopy, we will compare the histologic appearances of the ACI graft and its interface with adjacent articular cartilage; 4. Evaluate patient, surgical and explant chondrocyte characteristics in relation to functional, radiographic and biological outcomes. With respect to the matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) technique, we wish to clarify the clinical practice as a definitive treatment for articular cartilage defects. This will be the first randomised, controlled clinical trial of the MACI technique compared to that used by other groups. A positive clinical outcome from this trial will help promote the three cornerstones of this procedure – successful cell culture, efficient surgical procedures, and complimentary postoperative rehabilitation. Furthermore, this research will: a) Enhance the expansion of the MACI technique; b) Encourage development of endoscopic techniques of implantation using a combination of – • Preoperative defect registration with MRI • pre-cut custom patches, implanted with • Computer-assisted navigation techniques: c) Increase the potential to cater for a larger number of patients requiring articular cartilage repair; d) Confirm the long-term durability of regenerated cartilage in the 4th year and beyond; e) Add further commercial value by demonstrating MACI may prevent the onset of osteoarthritis.Read moreRead less
The Role Of Tenascin-C In Bone And Joint Pathology
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$215,773.00
Summary
Many diseases of bones (e.g.osteoporosis) and joints (e.g. arthritis) result from the abnormal function of cells in these tissues. Factors regulating cell function are, therefore, important in maintaining a healthy skeleton, as well as in the skeleton's response to disease. Tenascin-C is a protein produced by bone and joint cells. The role of tenascin-C in the function of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts) will be investigated. We will investigate whether ten ....Many diseases of bones (e.g.osteoporosis) and joints (e.g. arthritis) result from the abnormal function of cells in these tissues. Factors regulating cell function are, therefore, important in maintaining a healthy skeleton, as well as in the skeleton's response to disease. Tenascin-C is a protein produced by bone and joint cells. The role of tenascin-C in the function of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts) will be investigated. We will investigate whether tenascin-C is required for the bone loss that occurs in female mice when oestrogen is not present. We will also determine the role played by tenascin-C in development and recovery from arthritis. This study will contribute to the understanding of how bone and joint cells function in health and disease.Read moreRead less