Scientists from Tomsk State University (TSU) and Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, have teamed up to pioneer a revolutionary treatment for osteoporosis. The project, backed by a grant from the Russian Science Foundation, aims to devise an effective method for restoring bone tissue using biodegradable 3D polymer scaffolds.
Osteoporosis, acknowledged by the World Health Organization as one of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases globally, significantly elevates the risk of bone fractures, ranking fourth after cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and oncology.
Irina Kurzina, the lead researcher at TSU and Head of the Department of Natural Compounds, Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, explained, "In traditional approaches to treating osteoporosis, we rely on drug and hormone therapy. However, in our collaborative project, we are working with our esteemed foreign colleagues to develop a new agent capable of repairing osteoporotic bone defects. Biodegradable polymeric 3D scaffolds will serve as a sophisticated delivery tool to target the affected areas."
The Russian team concentrates on developing supermacromolecules, the active substance responsible for treating osteoporosis and rejuvenating bone tissue structure and density. Concurrently, Sharif University of Technology in Iran will leverage its expertise in medical materials science and 3D printing technologies for ceramic and polymer-based composite materials to fabricate the polymer scaffolds. The distinctive feature of these scaffolds lies in their gradual decomposition within the body, releasing an active substance that not only halts bone degradation but also actively contributes to the restoration process.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Federation Council
Based on materials from TASS