SpinalCyte has been issued a Canadian patent for their technology, focused on regrowth of the spinal disc nucleus using human dermal fibroblasts.
The technology described in the patent involves incorporating a matrix constructed of a synthetic polymer, a natural hydrogel, or a synthetic hydrogel to expose the fibroblasts to a mechanical strain using intermittent hydrostatic pressure and/or fluid shear stress. Other claims provide for growth factors such as BMP-2, BMP-4, BMP-6, BMP-7, transforming growth factor (TGF-β), and insulin growth factor (IGF-I).
According to Pete O’Heeron, chief executive officer for SpinalCyte, the company owns 12 US and foreign patents, while 38 are pending.
