Grant Award Details

Pluripotent Stem Cells for Tendon Tissue Engineering
Grant Number: 
DISC2-14053
Project Objective: 
  • To develop a bioengineered tendon from collagen/nanofiber scaffold, seeded with allogeneic PSC-derived MSCs, and subjected to mechanical stimuli. The resultant engineered tissue is subsequently decellularized and conjugated with bioactive agents.
Investigator: 
Institution: 
Type: 
PI
Disease Focus: 
Bone or Cartilage Disease
Tendon/Ligament/Connective Tissue Injury or Disorder
Human Stem Cell Use: 
Embryonic Stem Cell
Award Value: 
$2,734,163
Status: 
Pre-Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Pluripotent Stem Cells for Tendon Tissue Engineering
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

We propose to develop a bio-tendon engineered from differentiated pluripotent stem cells for the repair of tendon injuries and degeneration.

Impact

Rotator cuff tears are the most common causes of shoulder pain that require surgery. However, failure rates range from 20% to 90%. A successful tendon repair will have a major impact on outcomes.

Major Proposed Activities

  • We will develop assays for activity, purity, and identity of the cells
  • We will generate proof of concept of tendon repair after implantation in animal models of tendon injury.
  • We will prepare an INTERACT application to submit to the FDA for approval for the preclinical phase.
Statement of Benefit to California: 

Annually, over 100,000 Californians sustain tendon injuries, the majority of which require surgical repair. Failure rates for shoulder rotator cuff tendon repairs vary between 20% and 90%. Failed rotator cuff tendons lead to early development of osteoarthritis, for which the only effective treatment is total joint replacement. There are significant socioeconomic benefits in preventing disability. The reductions in healthcare costs are also likely to be significant.