A host of different cartilage tissue types exist and play critical roles in human function, but are often lost due to disease, injury, age, or congenital defect. Because of their hydrated nature, synthetic hydrogels have been considered potential replacements for cartilage. However, the complex bulk mechanical, and lubrication properties of cartilaginous tissues remain elusive to recapitulation.
We are developing ultra-strong and ultra-stiff multi-network hydrogels to resurface joints and and to replace of other types of cartilage (e.g., tracheal cartilage).
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