Common Skincare Ingredient Could Help Humans Regrow Knee Cartilage

Study in sheep shows potential for new arthritis treatment

A newly developed biomaterial might be able to treat crippling arthritis by prompting the regrowth of cartilage, according to a new study in sheep. The biomaterial is made from a common skincare ingredient called hyaluronic acid, which is found naturally in the body. In the study, researchers at Northwestern University applied the material to damaged cartilage in the animals' knee joints. After 12 weeks, they found that the cartilage had regenerated significantly. "This is the first study to show that a biomaterial can be used to regrow cartilage in a large animal model," said study lead author Adam W. Jayasundera, PhD, a biomaterials scientist at Northwestern University. "If these results translate to humans, this could be a new treatment option for arthritis patients." Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that lines the ends of bones and helps to cushion and protect them. Arthritis is a condition that causes cartilage to break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There is currently no cure for arthritis, and treatments are focused on relieving symptoms. The new biomaterial could provide a new way to treat arthritis by promoting the regrowth of cartilage. The material is made from hyaluronic acid, which is a natural component of cartilage. When applied to damaged cartilage, the material creates a scaffolding that encourages cells to grow and repair the tissue. In the study, the researchers tested the biomaterial in sheep. They applied the material to damaged cartilage in the animals' knee joints. After 12 weeks, they found that the cartilage had regenerated significantly. The regenerated cartilage was similar to healthy cartilage in terms of its structure and function. "These results are very promising," said Jayasundera. "We are now working to develop a human version of the biomaterial so that we can test it in clinical trials." If the biomaterial is shown to be safe and effective in humans, it could provide a new treatment option for arthritis patients. The material could be used to repair damaged cartilage, relieve pain, and improve mobility.