Whitaker International Fellow, 2008-09

Home Institution: Duke University

Host Country, Institution: The Netherlands, Eindhoven University of Technology

Project Title: Development of Artificial Nulcleous Pulposus System to Simulate the Inter-Vertebral Disc

Project Abstract:

Disc degeneration is a medical ailment faced by many patients.  A lot of research has been performed to determine methods to stop the degenerative process or to regenerate the disc.  In order to regenerate an inter-vertebral disc, it is necessary to fully understand the cellular processes of the disc.  The goal of this project will be to develop and characterize a system to culture nucleus pulposus tissue of the disc to simulate the environment of the inter-vertebral discs and spinal vertebrae so that an artificial inter-vertebral disc can be developed.