Composite product offers hope for neurodegenerative conditions, claim developers
13 Jan 2025
A novel composite material created by two UK universities has the potential to provide new treatments for nervous system and neurodegenerative damage, say researchers.
Formed from cellulose and piezo-ceramic particles, the material can enable neural stem cells to grow, assert the scientists based at the universities of Bath and Keele.
They claim it could be used not only to treat trauma damage but might also help alleviate the effects of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Writing in published in Cell Reports Physical Science, the researchers describe how the 3D piezoelectric cellulose composite, created by directional freeze casting, provides a ‘scaffold’ into which neural stem cells (NSCs) can be precision-delivered to locations.
Dr Hamideh Khanbareh, senior lecturer in the University of Bath’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and a member of the Centre for Integrated Materials, Processes & Structures (IMPS), described the possible impact:
“This is a groundbreaking biomaterial, which has the potential to redefine the prospects of recovery from central nervous system injuries or neurodegenerative diseases. It offers the hope of future treatments that could help patients regain crucial life-changing functions.
“It also offers clinicians the possibility to create therapeutic tools for treating conditions of this type and establishes a new class of versatile biomaterials that combine mechanical, electrical and biological cues.”
Being derived from cellulose, the product is sustainable as well as biodegradable by enzymes, allowing the implant to dissolve within the body once it fulfills its function.
The piezoelectric properties of the ceramic microparticles create electrical charges when placed under stress or via physical movement, stimulating stem cells to grow.
Primary investigator, Bath chemistry department PhD researcher Dr Vlad Jarkov, said the product created “significant potential” for bespoke treatments.
“One way this could be applied would be to use a CT scan of an injury site to model a very precise 3D implant that could address a patient’s specific needs by accurately bridging the gaps caused by injury to their brain or spinal cord,” he stated.
Given that neural stem cells are among the most complex in bodies, the project recruited experts in mechanical engineering, chemistry, neuroscience and materials science.
Continued Jarkov: “As an advanced bespoke medical treatment, it requires further development to become a reality in our hospitals, but we are hopeful this is the start of finding a solution to helping the many people around the world who suffer life-altering brain and spinal cord injuries.”
However, he added that developing the product will require testing for biocompatibility and efficacy, further optimisation of materials and freeze-casting methods, together with industrial scale-up and regulatory approval.
The research was funded by University of Bath alumni through the Hughes PhD scholarship and supported by the Bath’s Institute for Sustainable and Circular Technologies (ISCT).