Amedica is to collaborate with Celling Biosciences to research and develop biologically enhanced implants.
As part of the initial phase of the collaboration, Celling Biosciences’ team of scientists produced research indicating mesenchymal stem cells can be optimised and proliferate when using silicon nitride compared to the current PEEK and titanium biomaterial standards.
Results from the recent in vivo scientific study have shown that Amedica’s silicon nitride composition significantly outperformed PEEK in attachment testing of mesenchymal stem cells. Amedica’s biomaterial contains natural nanosurface topography and chemistry that play an active role in implant integration, according to the company. The results of the study suggest the microenvironment of silicon nitride promotes better cell adhesion and compatibility, with five times greater cell adhesion as compared to the PEEK material used.
With the initial research phase completed, Celling Biosciences will then translate the early findings to clinical trials in spinal and orthopaedic applications. This collaborative research will define clinical advantages of silicon nitride in combination with stem cell-based therapies. Based on further scientific findings, the intellectual property from both partners could be leveraged to create innovative solutions that promote a robust nanotechnology.
Sonny Bal, chairman and chief executive officer, says, “We look forward to continued research and future publications to underscore the favourable cell adhesion properties of silicon nitride, which are paramount to rapid bone fusion and improved patient outcomes.”
Kevin Dunworth, chief executive officer of Celling Biosciences, says, “Current trends show many evolutions of surface modifications and surface treatments around PEEK and titanium, but we believe Amedica’s proprietary technology is the future progression of biologically enhanced implants. Coupled with our ability to process tissue and apply those cells to cell-centric materials, such as silicon nitride, we look forward to further collaboration and optimising the environment for healing.”
