Manchester: Non-invasive treatment for worn discs

Investment opportunity

Scientists at the University of Manchester have developed a microgel that they believe could replace spinal fusion in the treatment of damaged intervertebral discs in the spine. The sponge-like particles swell and stiffen when injected into the damaged area, providing support. In animal models the discs regain their mechanical properties.

Brian Saunders from the School of Materials and Tony Freemont from the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, who developed the material, believe it opens up the possibility of humans being able to regain full mobility and flexibility after receiving spinal injections.

This would compare favourably with the existing spinal fusion treatment, which involves major surgery, with considerable recovery time, and results in loss of mobility at the fused and adjacent discs.

The microgel is a fluid at a low pH,I allowing it to be injected, and changes to a stiff gel at the higher pH within the body.

Freemont said, “Our approach has the advantage of restoring spinal mobility whereas spinal fusion surgery results in a significant loss of mobility at the fused and adjacent discs.”

Saunders and Freemont are now looking for funding to conduct clinical trials. They also intend to develop more microgels, including biodegradable materials that release growth factors to stimulate regeneration of the tissue in intervertebral discs.

The research to date has been funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the University of Manchester Intellectual Property Ltd, the technology transfer arm of the university.