Summary:

OSU researchers have developed a method of covering an implant surface with magnetically-labeled endothelial cells to improve implant compatibility. The functioning of implantable biomedical devices (e.g., orthopedic, drug delivery systems, biosensors, etc) is hampered by the foreign body reaction in the host and subsequent formation of an avascular fibrous capsule around the implant. The fibrous capsule may reduce or inhibit the function of the biomedical device. The OSU technology provides a method based on cellular tissue engineering that prevents the interference of the fibrous capsule and allows improved functioning of the implanted. Employing the OSU method increases the likelihood that an implant will be accepted and that excessive scarring, immune system rejection, and other possible negative outcomes or effects will be reduced or eliminated.

Potential Applications:

In 2003 sales of implantable drug delivery devices were $1.4 billion with a projected annual growth rate of 12.4%. Sales for all implantable medical devices were $14.6 billion (2004).