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
Preterm birth is a major cause of neonatal death and cerebral palsy. This grant will provide proof-of-concept that a computer program can be developed to predict a pregnant woman�s risk of preterm birth. There is a large market (4M US and 8M Europe), there are no competing technologies. This is a unique collaboration between Biomedical Engineering and an Australian centre with an international reputation in preterm birth, assisted by a pathology company.
Newborn babies are at risk of becoming short of oxygen during delivery and sustaining brain damage. Seizures may cause further damage to the brain because they release damaging chemicals or make extra energy demands on the brain that cannot be met. To detect seizures, it is necessary to measure the EEG, the tiny electrical signals from the brain. We are proposing to automatically detect and count seizures, building upon 8 years of fundamental EEG signal processing research work we have undertake ....Newborn babies are at risk of becoming short of oxygen during delivery and sustaining brain damage. Seizures may cause further damage to the brain because they release damaging chemicals or make extra energy demands on the brain that cannot be met. To detect seizures, it is necessary to measure the EEG, the tiny electrical signals from the brain. We are proposing to automatically detect and count seizures, building upon 8 years of fundamental EEG signal processing research work we have undertaken. We anticipate that the product will be of major commercial interest. We will further explore what is a rapidly expanding marketplace and ensure we maximize the commercial return on this product.Read moreRead less
Novel Methods For Promoting Organ Development And Growth
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$390,203.00
Summary
A revolutionary new therapy for treatment of growth restricted fetuses and premature babies is being developed through the administration of Colony Stimulating Factor (CSF-1). We have evidence that CSF-1 therapy can promote kidneys and lungs to continue development and maturation after birth. This exciting new finding allows for the application of CSF-1 therapy for both the treatment of premature babies and unborn babies with kidney defects.