Collagen Solutions plc (AIM: COS), the developer and manufacturer of medical grade collagen components for use in regenerative medicine, medical devices and in-vitro diagnostics, has told DirectorsTalk that it is part of a consortium that has been awarded an Arthritis Research UK (ARUK) Point of Care grant to develop novel functionally man-made osteochondral scaffold for large osteochondral defect repairs. Osteochondral injury refers to repetitive trauma within a joint such as the knee or elbow.
Collagen will collaborate with UCL and Oxford MEStar, a rapidly growing company specialising in translational and regenerative medicine.
Successful delivery of this programme will lead to the development of a novel scaffold that can be used clinically in a one-step surgical procedure for treatment of large osteochondral defects. As a result, the quality of life of individuals with these defects, which often lead to osteoarthritis, will be improved allowing a pain free, more active lifestyle.
Stewart White, CEO of Collagen Solutions commented: “Our relationship with UCL has already led to the licensing of novel collagen material from the laboratories of Professor Brown. This new grant widens our collaboration with the University and will lead to the development of another collagen based, high value added product which fits in with our strategy of releasing the embedded functionality of our medical grade collagen through the development and commercialization of high value added novel products.”