Creating new cartilage implants for knee joint resurfacing
Official title: Knee Joint Resurfacing with Anatomic Tissue Engineered Osteochondral Implants
Funded at Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-11141545 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new 3D-printed cartilage implants made from special materials that help grow cartilage cells, aiming to improve knee function and quality of life for people with osteoarthritis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Philadelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003375-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141545 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 30 and older who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe joint damage that cannot be repaired or those who are not suitable candidates for cartilage repair may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative cartilage implants using 3D printing technology to treat knee osteoarthritis. By utilizing hydrogels that encourage the growth of cartilage cells, the project aims to create living implants that can integrate with the patient's bone. The approach involves testing these engineered implants in a large animal model to ensure they can effectively restore joint function and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from cartilage damage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that restores knee function and alleviates pain for patients with osteoarthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using tissue-engineered approaches for cartilage repair, indicating potential success for this novel method.
Where this research is happening
-
Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steinberg, David — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Steinberg, David
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.